Frequently Asked Questions

Eye Care FAQs

With Optegra, no question goes unanswered. You will find some of our most frequently-asked questions below and for individual procedure questions you will them answered on the procedure pages. However, if you have a query or a concern that we have not covered, please call us on 0800 358 0825 or use the form on the right to send us your enquiry and we will do our very best to provide you with all the information you need.

 

I’ve been refused treatment in the past due to the strength of my prescription. Have techniques moved on?

New Wavefront technology means more complex prescriptions can now be treated with laser eye surgery. If you are not suitable, Optegra offers the option of Intra Ocular Lenses (IOLs), refractive lens exchange surgery and much more.

Will I ever need glasses again?

Laser Vision Correction is permanent, but most people will naturally need reading glasses at some point as the eye continues to age.

How soon after the consultation can I have my eye treatment?

Following your consultation we advise you to wait at least 48 hours before having treatment. This is to allow you enough time to consider the outcome and benefits to your life.

Do I need to leave my contact lenses out prior to treatment?

Prolonged wearing of contact lenses can change the corneal surface of the eye, affecting the accuracy of diagnostic measurements. So before your consultation please leave soft contact lenses out for a minimum of 7 days, and rigid gas permeable lenses out for a minimum of 2 weeks. If you have worn hard contact lenses for more than 10 years, please leave them out for an extra week for every decade worn. Before your treatment, please leave soft lenses out for 1 week and hard lenses out for a minimum of 2 weeks.

How quickly can I return to work after treatment?

Patients can usually return to work within 24 hours after LASIK treatment and within a few days after LASEK treatment. However, every individual is different and it is important that you take as much time as you need to recover.

Can I have both eyes treated at the same time?

Yes, most people have both eyes treated at once.

Does the treatment hurt?

Your ophthalmic surgeon will administer eye drops containing local anaesthetic so the treatment will be painless. Following treatment, LASIK patients may experience a gritty feeling for the first day. LASEK patients may experience this for a few days, and painkillers and anaesthetic drops are provided to minimise discomfort.

When do I need to come back for a check-up?

Optegra offers a comprehensive aftercare programme in which LASIK patients can come back the day after treatment, followed by 1 week, 1 month and 3 month check-ups. LASEK patients come back 4-7 days for contact lens removal, followed by 1 week, 1 month and 3 month check ups.

Can I bathe/shower/wash my hair as normal after treatment?

You can, but you must not get water in your eyes for 2 weeks. This is to minimise the risk of infection.

How soon can I wear make-up after treatment?

You must not wear eye make-up for 2 weeks after treatment. This is to minimise the risk of infection. One option is to have an eyelash tint prior to your treatment.

How soon can I get back to exercising after treatment?

Following treatment you should not use the gym for one week, or swim for 4 weeks. Contact sport should not be played for 3 months. Sun beds should not be used for 3 months.

Can I rub my eyes?

It is very important that you DO NOT rub your eyes at all for 2 weeks, as this will inhibit the healing process.

Is treatment safe?

It is important to remember that all surgical procedures carry some risks. However, the complication rate in Laser Vision Correction is under 1% and most complications are minor. Your surgeon will be happy to discuss any concerns with you.

Can I eat or drink prior to my treatment?

It is recommended that you have a light meal before you come into the hospital for your treatment.

Can I fly after treatment?

DO NOT fly for at least 1 week after treatment. This is due to the dry atmosphere and increased pressure inside the plane.

How soon can I use a computer after treatment?

It is advised not to use computers or watch television for 1-2 days after treatment to avoid your eyes becoming dry, but this advice is taken at your own discretion. If you use a computer at work you should do so for shorter periods of time, take breaks and use the lubricating eye drops provided to make your eyes as comfortable as possible.

Is there any link between Optegra Manchester Eye Hospital and the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital?

Optegra Manchester Eye Hospital is a privately run hospital. The Manchester Royal Eye Hospital is run by Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Although some of Optegra's consultants currently operate under contract at both locations, the hospitals are distinct and unconnected.

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Mr Morris was very helpful and I am very happy with the results. I would de...

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