I knew I wanted it, but I was just so scared to do it.
I’m talking about Lasik. I’ve never had any surgery in my life- So this was a major decision for me! I’ve been delaying it for months- trying to weigh the pros and cons while I tried to brush away the fear.
I even went out of my way to ask my friends who have done it- and surprisingly, not even ONE had anything negative to say about it. They all said that it was painless, quick and well worth it! It’s funny because even If I knew that, I couldn’t help but think…. it’s my vision on the line here! What if, what if.
And here I am 3 weeks after, telling you the same thing- if you need it, just go for it!!! It’s the best decision you’ll ever make. I am so glad I just did it and put all my fears aside.. because really it was no big deal! To be honest, I spent more time worrying than the actual procdure which only took about 20 mins in total! Can you believe?!
Oh but first, for those of you who don’t know what Lasik is – just a quick intro.
What is Lasik? Lasik is simply laser vision correction or laser eye surgery to reshape the eye’s cornea to improve vision. People that need it? Those that are just tired of having to live with glasses, contact lenses, and even those with astigmatism. There is hope beyond those lenses!
I’ve been wearing glasses on and off for about 5 years.. but the last 3 years I couldn’t last a day without it. Driving was impossible, as well as watching tv or even a movie.. Having to shoot for certain campaigns & attend formal events without it gave me really bad headaches- I was so over it.
I always had the impression that Lasik was only possible if your grade was above 300! I was only at 125- but little did I know that even patients with a grade of 50 would get it done. I learnt that it’s not about the grade, but the condition of your eye. Some of higher measure are not even qualified to get it done.
So the first step is actually to book a screening to see if you qualify. In this case, I chose Asian Eye Institute in Rockwell which was highly recommended by several friends. Nicole Hernandez being my number one cheerleader! Hahaha! Thanks Nic!
This was me halfway during my screening. Haha!
Anyway, you must know that the screening takes even longer than the actual surgery! Spare about 3-4 hours when you get it done. You’ll need to go through several machines, and some uncomfortable tests – but trust me, the surgery is nothing compared to the tests! Oh, and also make sure that you have someone with you at the screening because vision gets really blurry after. Eyes will be dilated. You won’t even be able to read your phone.
They also prefer that before you do both the screening, & even the surgery you’ll need to be wearing glasses for atleast 1-2 months- no contacts. I forgot to ask why- but it’s protocol. I never wore contacts when my eyes got bad, so I didn’t bother. Sorry! Haha.
I got my screening done some time in January- and finally had the guts to do it only last month! OMG i just realized, about 8 months! Haha. I was so scared. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to risk it.
But really, it made me realize WHY in the world did I wait so long?!?
The process was simple (at least for me) but of course medically I didn’t pay attention to the exact process. All I was concerned about was that if i was comfortable and felt no pain. If those two were in check, then it was all good.
August 3 came, had a good lunch and walked up to Asian Eye in Rockwell. I was scheduled with Dr. Robert Ang.
I was nervous but all the nurses and Doctors were all telling me not to worry. I mean come on, they do several procedures in a day. So really I shouldn’t have worried so much!! So here it goes.. to those that just need that extra push… here’s my firsthand experience !
Preparation for surgery. Of course, no makeup allowed, no perfume – not even the scent of laundry detergent on clothes- this is because of the sensitivity of the machine.
Then I proceeded to the waiting area. This is where they prepped my eye. Just a few aneasthetic drops and cover for the eye that will be treated last.
Of course I had my little tripod with me to document everything. I posted the video on Instagram incase you want to see more! @mikaelamartinez
Next was the operating room. It was cozy, it wasn’t as frightening as I imagined it to be. Blame it on the movies!
During the procedure all that was required of me was to stay put. I really didn’t know if my eyes were open or closed ‘coz vision was just locked on that red light- first a bright light then a haze, then a burst of colors. At this point, I really didn’t know. They put an eye lock to keep it open regardless. But it wasn’t anything scary actually.
Roughly about 10 minutes per eye..
I will spare you of the gruesome photos because it is unnecessary- But this is pretty much it..that’s my eye undergoing the laser treatment.. not too bad right?
At this point, all I saw was a burst of colors… and I did NOT feel a thing. No pain at all. No discomfort. .. then it was done!
I was even smiling after. At this point it was definitely hazey, but I could see. They had to check a few things right after and put a gazillion eye drops but that was it! I went home and slept for about 3 hours- (it’s advisable to rest and speed up the healing process).
Right before I left, I was given goggles to wear for a week just for protection. Aftercare is 3 different eyedrops to be used 4x a day… no swimming for a month. No carrying anything heavy for 2 weeks. There’s a 24 hour period check up… and then 2 weeks after. I was able to see clearly the following day with an astonishing 20/15 vision! Waking up the next day with such clear eyesight was a treasure!
Lasik isn’t as complicated as it seems. I have no regrets and more than anything- it’s like a brand new world!!! Made me also realize just how blessed we are to have the gift of sight!
If you need more information you can check the instagram account of @asianeyeinstitute and go from there! I highly recommend them and the team of Dr. Robert Ang.
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