It has already been 2 weeks since the diopter reduction surgery through the (Femto) Lasik procedure. I don't stop being happy and marveling at the change that has occurred for me.
How I Made the Decision
Over the years, I wore glasses or contact lenses and always had all kinds of complaints. My eyes would dry out or turn red, glasses had to be cleaned 2-3 times a day, any activity required compromises, etc. I had astigmatism (-1.75) and slight myopia, stable for at least 4 years. I only felt the need for glasses in middle school. At the time of surgery, I had been using glasses or contact lenses for approximately 16 years.
At a moment when all the inconveniences seemed to have overlapped, I saw a question online in my feed about diopter reduction surgeries. I started researching which clinics and doctors are in Bucharest. In less than a week, I had an appointment for investigations at Clario Ophthalmology for Lasik surgery.
Preparation for Lasik Surgery
Everything was superb from the first visit to the clinic. I was guided by customer reviews and was already convinced I had made a good decision. Very friendly staff, appointments respected, very modern clinic, equipped with all necessary equipment and impeccable cleanliness. After the first impression, I stepped into Dr. Monica Apostolescu's office who explained everything the Lasik surgery involves. She answered all my questions and, although the discussion may have lasted 20-30 minutes, I had already made my decision after the first 5 :).
Then followed a series of tests, all performed on the same day at the Clario clinic. After so many devices, tests and criteria, I started to feel anxious that I might not be a candidate for Lasik surgery. I was glad they didn't ignore any criteria to proceed safely to the intervention.
After validating the tests, I made an appointment for surgery – on a Thursday, after 4:00 PM. The surgery day and time slot is perfectly chosen and allows easy and rapid recovery, without interfering with daily life and job events.
The Lasik Surgery
On the day of surgery, after another reassuring discussion with the doctor, I entered the operating room. The Lasik surgery was performed with great care by the doctor, alongside a professional team from Zeiss and medical assistants. The first step was cutting a corneal flap. The procedure lasted very little (under 10 seconds/eye). All without feeling any pain and being able to see throughout. After the first procedure, the excimer laser followed which reshaped the cornea. The procedure also lasted under 10-20 seconds per eye. With very great care, the doctor repositioned the flap and the Lasik surgery was completed.
In total, the visit to the operating room I think lasted less than 30 minutes. Another microscope check followed and then I went home with slight redness in my eyes, minor stinging in the left eye and foggy vision.
After Surgery
After less than an hour, I opened my eyes among cars and headlights. I was still in traffic heading home (I wasn't driving). I felt slight discomfort with light, but I could perfectly see a phone number from a license plate frame – which I couldn't see well before even with glasses.
It was incredible how quickly everything happened. After a night's sleep without any stress or pain, I woke up with clear eyes, without any discomfort and with already perfect vision. I went to the first post-operative checkup, which confirmed that everything is fine. My exam was passed with flying colors. I managed to see clearly all the letters on the screen (distance) and to read up close.
I followed a treatment with drops for a week. In about 2 days, the light discomfort disappeared. I didn't encounter any problems related to halos, glare or blur. Night vision was also perfect. After a week, the second checkup followed, at which everything went wonderfully and the letters had become even clearer.
Some Fears I Had That Were Not Confirmed:
- That I might have moments during surgery when I couldn't see. And have a panic attack. -> I saw throughout the intervention.
- That I might blink during surgery. -> Impossible – the eyelids are blocked/secured in position with a device.
- That I might move my eyes during surgery. -> The gaze must be held at a fixed point and the laser stops if the eye moves.
- That I might have problems with night vision for up to 6 months. -> Only slight discomfort with artificial light for 2 days.
- That I might have problems carrying out my daily activity. -> I got tired/teared up more in the first 2 days (Friday, Saturday). Sunday, there was no longer any problem. Monday I resumed my activity without any moment of fatigue – 10+ hours in front of screens.
Quality of Life Has Significantly Increased
Now I'm happy that I can see everything without the enclosure of glasses frames, that I can wear sunglasses, that I have a relaxed look and that I no longer have the stress of glasses (lost/dirty/fogged up), tired eyes or a frowning look.
I can't wait to resume physical activities one month after Lasik surgery, to be able to enjoy perfect vision without dizziness, glasses slipping, or sandy sensation in my eyes from contact lenses.
With thanks!
Anca Z
Lasik surgery performed by Dr. Monica Apostolescu - Specialist Ophthalmologist, Founder Clario
About diopter reduction surgeries – Lasik Surgery
