I had epi-lasek treatment at Optimax in Finchley Road on 22/03/05. My appointment was at 9.30am and I was seen within 10 minutes of arriving. I was nervous but there was no need to be. The treatment was uncomfortable, as each eye was clamped open for aprrox. 10 minutes, but it was less painful than I had expected and my surgeon talked me through every stage, which was very reassuring.
After the treatment was completed, I was given my medication and advice for the next few days. I made on appointment to have my bandage lenses removed 4 days later and felt OK to travel home. At this point the anaesthetic had not worn off and I felt fine.
As I left the clinic and walked to the car I was amazed that I could see everything clearly straight after treatment and did not feel unwell. However, after about half an hour in the car the anaesthetic wore off and I was in so much pain I couldn't open my eyes at all. When I arrived home I took a sleeping tablet and went to bed for 4 hours. When I awoke I could still only open my eyes for about 10 minutes at a time, but the pain wasn't as bad.
The following morning I felt a lot better, but still a bit tired as I still needed painkillers and eyedrops. I needed 5 days off work to recover fully.
At my follow up appointment 3 weeks later I was told that my eyes were making a very good recovery and that I now have 20/20 vision. I can still hardly believe that I no longer need contact lenses and as I got 2 eyes for the price of one, it will have paid for itself within 5 years.
The staff at Optimax were very friendly and helpful and I would recommend them to anyone.