Medically Reviewed by: Edward C. Wade, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Post-Operative Care after LASIK Surgery
Everyone’s eyes are unique. Some people have perfect vision. Others have nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or a combination creating less than ideal vision.
Using the surgical procedure, LASIK, a surgeon can correct the corneal tissue to improve eyesight. The end result is freedom from glasses or contacts.
Postoperative Care after LASIK
Postoperative from LASIK surgery is an essential component for optimal results. Always follow the doctor’s guidelines. The procedure allows you to return to normal activities quickly. But you will still need to be careful.
Get Plenty of Rest
One of the best aspects to help aid in the recovery after LASIK surgery is rest. You will experience some sensitivity and minor discomfort. Allowing time to rest and relax will help in speedy the recovery process.
Even when sleeping, use the eye shield or eye goggles as instructed to protect your eyes. Your doctor should always follow up the day after LASIK surgery to view the results.
Don’t Touch
When your eyes are feeling a sense of discomfort, the first response is to rub them. You must avoid rubbing your eyes. The small amount of pressure from rubbing your eyes can result in damage to the sensitive areas.
Keep Water Away from Your Eyes
Avoid taking a shower or bath until the day after surgery. When you decide to wash your hair, use extreme caution to avoid getting soap in your eyes. Stay away from the hot tub, sauna, and swimming pools for at least 2 weeks.
Personal Hygiene
Along with keeping tap water away from your eyes, remember to carefully apply hairspray, face cream, lotions, or after shave. Do not wear any type of makeup for at least a week. You might want to consider replacing your old makeup product to eliminate exposure to bacteria.
Use Sunglasses
Shielding your eyes with sunglasses will help in avoiding discomfort from the bright sun. The bright rays might create scarring, so using sunglasses as protection is vital. Wear the sunglasses for at least a week after LASIK surgery.
Returning to Work
Generally, you will be able to return to work after a couple of days. You will just need to be extremely careful not to put too much strain on your eyes.
Returning to driving is permitted as long as you feel comfortable with your eyesight. But ask your doctor’s permission first and remember to use your sunglasses.
Normal Activities
Getting back to normal activities might take a week. You will want to avoid any type of eye irritations. As you begin to resume your normal routine after a week, you will want to wear goggles to protect your eyes when you sleep.
- Avoid exercising and strenuous activity.
- Stay out of the garden and dusty environments.
- Avoid any type of contact sports for at least a month.
One of the best aspects about choosing LASIK surgery is the ease of the procedure. At any time, if you feel extreme discomfort or pain, contacting your healthcare provider is a must. Complications from corrective eye surgery are rare.
Patients will generally notice an improvement in their vision the next day. Following your doctor’s instructions will allow you to return to normal activities in a quick manner.
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