Surgical Co-Management

Surgical Co-Management: LASIK Pre-Op and Post-Op Care

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is one of the most popular and effective surgical procedures for correcting vision problems like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. While the procedure itself is typically performed by an ophthalmologist, optometrists play a crucial role in both the pre-operative and post-operative phases of LASIK through a process known as surgical co-management. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care, from the initial consultation to full recovery.

Understanding Surgical Co-Management

Surgical co-management is a coordinated care model where an optometrist, such as Dr. Cordell, and an ophthalmologist work together to manage a patient’s care before and after surgery. In the context of LASIK, the optometrist handles the initial assessment, provides pre-operative care, and conducts post-operative follow-ups, while the ophthalmologist performs the actual surgery. This partnership leverages the expertise of both professionals to optimize patient outcomes.

The Optometrist’s Role in LASIK Pre-Op Care

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

The first step in the LASIK journey is an initial consultation with an optometrist. During this visit, Dr. Cordell will:

• Conduct a Comprehensive Eye Exam: This includes assessing the overall health of the eyes, measuring refractive errors, and evaluating the cornea’s shape. These tests help determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for LASIK.
• Discuss Medical History: Dr. Cordell will review the patient’s medical history, including any previous eye conditions or surgeries, to identify potential risks or contraindications.
• Explain the Procedure: Educating the patient about LASIK is essential. Dr. Cordell will explain how the procedure works, what to expect during and after surgery, and the potential risks and benefits.
• Answer Questions: Patients often have many questions and concerns about LASIK. Dr. Cordell serves as a trusted resource, providing clear and accurate information to help the patient make an informed decision.

Pre-Operative Preparations

Once the patient decides to proceed with LASIK, Dr. Cordell will:

• Coordinate with the Ophthalmologist: Dr. Cordell will share the patient’s medical and eye health information with the ophthalmologist performing the surgery to ensure a smooth transition and thorough preparation.
• Provide Pre-Operative Instructions: Patients may need to stop wearing contact lenses for a period before the surgery to allow their corneas to return to their natural shape. Dr. Cordell will give specific instructions on this and other pre-operative preparations.
• Perform Additional Tests: In some cases, further tests may be needed to ensure the patient’s suitability for LASIK. Dr. Cordell will conduct these tests and share the results with the surgical team.

The Optometrist’s Role in LASIK Post-Op Care

Immediate Post-Operative Care

After the LASIK procedure, Dr. Cordell will continue to provide critical care to ensure a smooth recovery. This includes:

• Initial Follow-Up Visit: The first follow-up appointment typically occurs within 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Dr. Cordell will assess the healing process, check for any complications, and ensure the patient is comfortable.
• Monitor Healing: Dr. Cordell will monitor the patient’s progress through regular follow-up visits. These appointments are crucial for detecting and addressing any issues early, such as dry eyes, inflammation, or infection.
• Provide Medications: Patients are often prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Dr. Cordell will explain how to use these medications correctly and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Long-Term Post-Operative Care

The recovery process continues for several months after LASIK, and Dr. Cordell plays a key role in ensuring long-term success:

• Regular Check-Ups: Scheduled visits with Dr. Cordell and the 20/20 Vision team allow for ongoing monitoring of the patient’s vision and eye health. These check-ups help track the stability of the vision correction and address any late-onset complications.
• Addressing Side Effects: Some patients may experience temporary side effects, such as glare, halos, or dry eyes. Dr. Cordell and her team will provide treatments and strategies to manage these issues effectively.
• Vision Stabilization: It can take several months for vision to stabilize fully after LASIK. Dr. Cordell will continue to monitor the patient’s progress and ensure that their vision meets the expected outcomes.
• Patient Education: Post-operative care also involves educating patients about lifestyle adjustments and preventive measures to protect their newly corrected vision. Dr. Cordell will offer guidance on activities to avoid, the importance of UV protection, and the necessity of wearing protective eyewear during sports or hazardous activities.

Surgical Co-Management at 20/20 Vision Optometric Center is Care With Optimal Outcomes

The collaborative approach of surgical co-management offers numerous benefits to patients undergoing LASIK:

• Comprehensive Care: Patients receive a seamless continuum of care, from initial consultation through to full recovery, with both the optometrist and ophthalmologist working together to provide optimal outcomes.
• Personalized Attention: Optometrists such as Dr. Cordell often have long-standing relationships with their patients, allowing for personalized and attentive care. Dr. Cordell understands her patients’ needs and concerns, which helps in providing tailored advice and support.
• Convenience: With Dr. Cordell and the 20/20 Vision team handling pre-op and post-op care, patients can often receive care closer to home, reducing the need for frequent trips to the surgical center.
• Enhanced Communication: Effective communication between the optometrist and ophthalmologist ensures that all aspects of the patient’s care are coordinated and optimized for the best results.

Optometrist Dr. Sabrina Cordell Is Your Choice for LASIK Co-Management

Surgical co-management is a vital component of successful LASIK surgery, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care before and after their procedure. When it comes to the optometrist who plays a crucial role in this collaborative approach, look no further than Dr. Sabrina Cordell. Our optometrist Dr. Cordell has always loved building relationships with people and is the ideal choice for a communicative-intensive journey such as pre-op and post-op Lasik management. Get to know Dr. Cordell, her years of clinical expertise, and patient-centered philosophy, and call to schedule a consultation today at 714-775-4454.