Laser surgery
Yesterday, I took the first step toward saving my vision. I underwent laser eye surgery on my left eye, something I’d both anticipated and feared. I’ve never had surgery before, so I wasn’t sure what to expect.
My procedure took place at the Retina Center of Texas in Southlake with Dr. Jawad Qureshi. His staff was warm, efficient, and reassuring from the moment I checked in. After a short wait, I was called back for an eye exam. They dilated my left eye, numbed both eyes, and sent me to a second waiting area. About 20 minutes later, I was called again and given another round of numbing drops.
As I sat in the room, I couldn’t help but notice a laser device in front of me — the tool that would soon be saving my sight. My anxiety started to rise, but I took a few deep breaths and reminded myself why I was there: to protect my vision and my future.
Understanding My treatment
Dr. Qureshi explained that I would be receiving a Panretinal Photocoagulation treatment. This procedure is used for advanced cases of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, which is what I have.
In my case, abnormal blood vessels had begun to grow on the surface of my retinas. These fragile vessels are prone to bleeding and can lead to scar tissue and even retinal detachment if left untreated.
The laser treatment targets the peripheral areas of the retina, applying hundreds of tiny laser spots to destroy sections with poor blood flow. This reduces the retina’s oxygen demand and causes those abnormal blood vessels to shrink and stop growing.
The Procedure
Before beginning, Dr. Qureshi administered two numbing shots. one for the top portion of my eye and one for the bottom. I’ve had shots in my eyes before, but two at once tested even my tolerance. Afterward, I had to keep my eyes closed for a while as the numbing took effect. That was harder than it sounds, but once my eyes were shut, I didn’t want to open them again.
When it was time, the technician led me back to the laser room. She applied more numbing drops, and Dr. Qureshi fitted a contact lens on my eye to prevent blinking during the procedure.
“Keep your eyes straight,” he said, counting down from three.
Then, I saw it! A red beam flashing across my vision. For about six to eight minutes, it was like watching a light show from the inside out. There were brief moments of discomfort, but nothing unbearable. I could feel cool gel running down my face from the contact as the laser worked across different areas of my retina.
And then, just like that, it was over.
Dr. Qureshi removed the contact, flushed my eye, and my first surgery was complete.
Recovery and Reflection
I was told to expect some pain, swelling, and redness over the next few days. My instructions were simple: use my prescribed eye drops four times daily and avoid any activities that could strain my eyes.
Aside from the waiting, the entire surgery was surprisingly quick and efficient. One down, two to go.
As I rest and recover, I’m still working and planning for the next steps in my journey. I’m raising funds to cover the cost of my upcoming surgeries through GoFundMe, and I’m deeply grateful for every bit of support — whether through donations or simply sharing my story.
This is just the beginning, but it’s a powerful one. I’m taking back my health, my vision, and my life one eye at a time.
