What is it like to get Lasik eye surgery?

I have wanted lasik surgery for a long time. Two years ago, I went for a consultation and was denied because wearing contacts as long as I did would have made the procedure dangerous. The doctor recommended I wear glasses for 30 days and then come back. Unfortunately, my finances went sour.

Recently, I was finally in a position where I could afford it. Since I had been wearing glasses the entire time I prayed I would finally be a good candidate. I called Updegraff Vision, which friends and colleagues recommended. But after learning my vision insurance provider would offer a significant discount to go to a preferred physician, I knew it was time to schedule consultation No. 2 at LasikPlus.

Having two consultations in one week was by far the worst part of my experience. I hate eye dilation and vision tests. Luckily, both doctors said I was a good candidate. The only thing left was to decide which to go with.

I opted for LasikPlus.

Three days before surgery I began an antibiotic eye drop regimen to sanitize my eyes and ensure they were healthy under the lasers. I had a relaxant ready to take, signed my paperwork, and took my relaxant and waited 20 minutes for it to kick in. One more vision test and my post-op instructions were all that stood in the way of good vision.

The doctor called me into the surgery room, which is like a giant fish bowl, allowing everyone in the waiting room to watch. I was told to lie on bed No. 1, where numbing drops were placed in my eyes and my corneal flaps cut. Then I was helped onto bed No. 2, where I saw the most magnificent light show, which was actually the lasers modifying my eyes. The entire process took about 10 minutes. I sat up and I could see the clock across the room for the first time!

I went home and slept, because that is the best way to heal. At my follow-up the next day, I learned I had gone from almost legally blind to 20/15 vision. The only side effects were bruised eyes and a little dryness and itchiness.

A week later was another follow-up and the doctor told me I was healing beautifully. I do have a little bit of night glare while driving but they tell me that will subside, most likely within three months.

— My First Time is a column about Ashley Grant trying new things in Tampa Bay. Got a suggestion for something she can try? Email her at famousashleygrant@gmail.com.