How to prepare for LASIK eye surgery?

LASIK can change the way you see the world — literally. But before you walk into the laser suite, it’s important to know how to prepare.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do in the days and weeks before your LASIK surgery.

1. Stop wearing contact lenses

If you wear contact lenses, switch to glasses before your consultation. Contact lenses change the shape of your cornea, even if you don’t feel it.

Most surgeons recommend:

• Soft lenses: Stop wearing them at least 3–5 days before your assessment.
• Hard or gas-permeable lenses: Stop at least 2–4 weeks before.

This allows your cornea to return to its natural shape so we can measure your eyes properly.

2. Don’t wear eye makeup or creams

On the day of your LASIK surgery, keep your face clean and makeup-free. Avoid:

• Mascara, eyeliner, eye creams
• Perfume or heavily scented lotions.

These can leave particles near the eyes or irritate the area after surgery.

3. Plan your ride home

You won’t be able to drive after LASIK. Your vision may be blurry for a few hours. Make sure a friend or family member can take you home after your procedure.

4. Avoid alcohol and caffeine

The day before and on the day of surgery:

• Do not drink alcohol — it dries out the eyes.
• Limit caffeine — it can make you jittery.

Drink lots of water.

5. Dress comfortably

Wear comfortable clothes to your appointment. The surgery room can be cool. Avoid clothes that shed lint or fibers.

Skip accessories like earrings, necklaces, or anything that could get in the way while you’re lying down.

6. Follow your doctor’s instructions

If your doctor gives you eye drops, use them exactly as directed. Some people are given lubricating or antibiotic drops to prepare the eyes before LASIK.

Always ask if you’re unsure.

7. Ask about same-day surgery

At our hospital, we’re the only provider in Bosnia that offers same-day LASIK, that means you can have your consultation and your procedure on the same day.

This is ideal if you’re coming from out of town or have a busy schedule.

8. Rest the night before

Try to get a good night’s sleep before your surgery day. Being well-rested helps your body and your eyes heal.

9. Know what to expect

Before the procedure, we’ll explain every step. LASIK only takes about 10 minutes, and most patients feel no pain, just mild pressure.

You’ll go home the same day and start seeing improvements quickly, sometimes within hours.

Not sure if LASIK is right for you? Take our 2 minute self-test. It’s free, fast, and helps you find out if you're a candidate for same-day LASIK.