Eye Diagram

A Personal Experience Of Laser Surgery

What made you decide to have Lasik surgery?
My contact lenses were always a nuisance. When I first heard about lasik I was keen to have it done but was nervous about having surgery on my eyes. Then a friend of mine, who has always worn thick glasses, had lasik done by Dr Mesham and was thrilled with the result. He convinced me to go and see Dr Mesham to find out if I was suitable - after that the decision was easy.

What happened at the consultations?
I first went for a free assessment. I was put on a machine which did computerized eye measurements. This showed that I was in the correct range for lasik surgery. The staff gave me information about lasik and made an appointment to see Dr Mesham. I then had to leave my contact lenses out for one week.

At the next visit Dr Mesham rechecked my glasses measurements, did more tests with high-tech equipment and explained the procedure to me. He gave me a very frank run-down of the pros and cons of surgery. He then explained to me exactly what I had to do during the procedure. He told me that it was no worse than a trip to the dentist.

How was the laser procedure?
I felt quite nervous when I arrived at the clinic but the staff were very efficient and put me at ease. They put some drops in my eyes to make them go numb. To stop me blinking Dr Mesham put a clamp in my eye, which was a little uncomfortable. Next a suction was put on my eye, everything blacked out and there was a hissing noise as they cut the flap. It was over in a few seconds.

I then had to look up at a red light as the laser was lined up. When the laser started there was a loud buzzing noise. I couldn't feel anything but there was a faint smell like burnt hair. They then put some drops in my eyes and it was all finished. Throughout the procedure Dr Mesham was explaining things to me and a nurse held my hand, which was very reassuring. I had been in the laser room for 30 minutes but it felt like much less.

I left the clinic with eye shields taped over both eyes. By the time I got home my eyes were scratchy and I felt exhausted. I had a short sleep and when I woke up the scratchiness had gone. I looked out the window to test my eyes - I could see the leaves on the trees!

What has been the best thing since the surgery?
Being able to open my eyes every morning and see is like a miracle.

Do you have any regrets?
Yes, I wish I'd had it done 10 years ago.