What should you eat before laser eye surgery?

Laser eye treatment, such as LASIK or PRK, is an effective method for correcting refractive errors. As with any surgery, it’s important to prepare properly, and that includes your nutrition before the procedure. So what should you eat before a laser eye treatment to achieve the best results and ensure a smooth recovery? In this blog post, you’ll learn about the best nutritional practices to follow before a laser eye treatment.

Why is nutrition important before surgery?

What you eat before an operation can significantly affect your comfort during the procedure and your recovery afterward. Proper nutrition helps keep you hydrated, maintain steady energy levels, and support the healing process.

Unlike surgeries that require general anaesthesia, where it is often recommended not to eat or drink for several hours beforehand, laser eye treatment is usually performed under local anaesthesia (numbing eye drops). This means you do not have to fast, but you should still be mindful of what you eat.

What should you eat before a laser eye treatment?

1. Light, balanced meal: Before your laser eye treatment, it is recommended that you eat a light, balanced meal. Eating too much can cause discomfort during the procedure, while a meal that is too light may leave you feeling weak or tired. Choose a meal containing protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. An example would be a chicken salad with vegetables, whole-grain rice, and avocado, which provides the necessary energy without overloading your digestive system.

2. Adequate fluids: Make sure you stay well hydrated before the procedure. Drinking enough water helps keep your eyes moist and promotes better recovery after surgery. However, avoid consuming excessive amounts of fluid immediately before the procedure, as this may cause discomfort.

3. Avoid foods high in sugar or saturated fats: Foods high in sugar or saturated fats can cause feelings of fullness or discomfort. They can also lead to a rise in blood sugar levels, followed by an energy slump, which could affect your comfort during and after the procedure. Instead, choose nutrient-dense, fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

4. Lean protein: Lean protein, such as chicken, fish, or eggs, can help keep your energy levels steady throughout the day. It is also essential for tissue repair, which can aid your recovery after surgery.

5. Vitamins from fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and E are particularly beneficial for eye health. For example, carrots, spinach, oranges, and berries contain antioxidants that protect your eyes and support the healing process.

What should you avoid before undergoing laser eye surgery?

In addition to knowing what to eat, it’s important to be aware of which foods and drinks to avoid before laser eye surgery:

1. Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol before surgery. Alcohol can dehydrate your body, including your eyes, which could complicate the healing process. It can also interact with medications you receive before or after the procedure.

2. Caffeine: Limit your caffeine intake on the day of surgery. Although caffeine can give you an energy boost, it can also cause nervousness or an elevated heart rate, which may make the procedure more uncomfortable. In addition, caffeine is a diuretic and can lead to mild dehydration.

3. Heavy or spicy foods: Heavy or spicy foods can cause digestive problems or discomfort during the procedure. It’s best to choose easily digestible foods to avoid this.

Conclusion

Proper nutrition before a laser eye treatment can help ensure optimal comfort during the procedure and support your recovery. A light, balanced meal together with adequate hydration can make a big difference. Avoid alcohol, excessive caffeine, and heavy meals to maximize your chances of success.

Take the next step

Curious whether you’re a candidate for laser eye treatment? Start with our aptitude test. You’ll receive an initial assessment of whether laser treatment is suitable for you. Answer a few simple questions (about 2 minutes) about your vision and any visual aids you’ve used.