Then, your surgeon will insert the inlay under the flap and make sure it is perfectly centered over the pupil. The flap will naturally self-seal. Cool, right? The corneal inlay procedure is virtually painless (although you may feel slight pressure) and takes less than 20 minutes. WHAT TO EXPECT IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE PROCEDURE As with any surgery, a recovery period should be expected. Immediately following the corneal inlay procedure, you will not be allowed to drive, so be sure you bring someone with you who can drive you home when you are finished. Every person is unique, but most patients resume normal activities and are able to return to work within 24 to 48 hours. Note: Your Frantz EyeCare doctor might tell you not to wear your reading glasses in order to enhance recovery and near-vision improvement. Be sure to follow instructions closely to promote optimal healing. Finish all medications, including any ocular lubricant (such as artificial tears), which should be used as your doctor recommends. Keep all follow-up appointments to be sure your procedure is progressing as expected. WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE FUTURE Your vision may fluctuate for the first three to six months as your brain is adjusting to your new, improved vision, but don’t worry; this is normal and it will stabilize. While many patients report no need for glasses after their Corneal Inlay Procedure, others still use reading glasses in some instances such as in a low-light situation or if print is very small. If there are any issues with the corneal inlay, it can be easily and safely removed. If in a rare instance removal is needed, patients normally return to the same quality of vision they had prior to the insertion of the inlay. FUN FACT The medical term “presbyopia” comes from the Greek words “ops” for eyes and “presbys” for elder. (As if we needed a reminder that our eyes, like our bodies, are aging!) 39