FAQs about Contact Lenses and Laser Eye Surgery

1. Can I wear contact lenses before laser eye surgery?

Yes, you can wear contact lenses before laser eye surgery, but it’s important to follow your eye surgeon’s guidance. Contact lenses, particularly rigid or gas permeable types, can alter your corneal shape. To ensure accurate measurements and optimal results, you may need to discontinue contact lens use anywhere between a few days and a few weeks prior to surgery, your surgeon will advise.

2. How long should I stop wearing contact lenses before my laser eye surgery consultation?

It is recommended to stop wearing contact lenses for at least 3 days before your laser eye surgery consultation. If you use hard or gas permeable lenses, you might need to pause wearing them for a few weeks. This allows your cornea to return to its natural shape, ensuring precise measurements for the best surgical outcomes.

3. Can I switch from contact lenses to laser eye surgery?

Yes, switching from contact lenses to laser eye surgery is a common choice. Laser eye surgery, such as LASIK or PRK, provides a permanent solution to refractive errors, potentially eliminating the need for contacts or glasses. During your initial consultation, your eye surgeon will assess your suitability for laser eye surgery based on your eye health and prescription.

4. Will laser eye surgery eliminate the need for contact lenses entirely?

Laser eye surgery aims to reduce or eliminate the need for contact lenses by correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Most patients experience significant improvements in vision and may not need contacts or glasses. However, some individuals might still require reading glasses for close-up tasks, especially as they age.

5. Can I use contact lenses if I am not eligible for laser eye surgery?

Yes, if you are not eligible for laser eye surgery, contact lenses remain a viable option for vision correction. Contact lenses can address a variety of refractive errors, including high prescriptions and astigmatism. Your eye care professional can help you select the best type of contact lenses to suit your vision needs.

6. How do I know if I am a good candidate for laser eye surgery instead of wearing contact lenses?

Determining if you are a good candidate for laser eye surgery involves a comprehensive eye exam. Your eye surgeon will evaluate your overall eye health, prescription stability, corneal thickness, and any other relevant factors. If you meet the criteria, laser eye surgery may be a suitable alternative to contact lenses.

7. What are the benefits of choosing laser eye surgery over contact lenses?

Laser eye surgery offers several benefits compared to contact lenses:

• Permanent Vision Correction: Reduces or eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses.
• Convenience: No need for daily lens insertion and maintenance.
• Comfort: Potential improvement in dry eye symptoms, which can be exacerbated by contact lenses.
• Freedom: Greater freedom from the daily hassle of managing contact lenses and cleaning solutions.

8. Are there any risks associated with transitioning from contact lenses to laser eye surgery?

Transitioning from contact lenses to laser eye surgery generally involves minimal risks. However, accurate corneal measurements are crucial, so discontinuing contact lens use as advised is important. Some patients may experience temporary dryness or discomfort after surgery, but these effects usually resolve with proper post-operative care.

9. How long after laser eye surgery can I resume wearing contact lenses if needed?

After laser eye surgery, contact lenses are typically not needed as the procedure is designed to correct vision issues. If contact lenses are still required for any reason, it is essential to wait until your eyes have fully healed, which can take several weeks. Your surgeon will guide you on the appropriate time for any further corrective options if necessary.

10. What should I do if I experience issues with my contact lenses before considering laser eye surgery?

If you experience problems with your contact lenses, such as discomfort or vision changes, consult your eye care professional. They can diagnose the issue and determine whether it's related to your lenses or another condition. They will also help you explore if laser eye surgery might be a beneficial alternative.