LASIK eye surgery is done to correct your vision. This reduces the need for glasses, and is a safe method of vision correction. If you are considering the surgery, you must know what to expect in terms of the LASIK recovery timeline. The healing starts immediately after the procedure, but you may experience fluctuations in your vision. Your eye doctor discuss your post-LASIK care. Read on to better understand the timeline of LASIK recovery.
Day One After LASIK
You may have some discomfort and light sensitivity, and you will be using your prescribed eyedrops. You can take over-the-counter pain relief medications, and your doctor will also help you with a prescription for painkillers. Its a good idea to sleep as much as possible after surgery.
After LASIK, both your eyes will be covered with a plastic shield. Please use them as prescribed, and replace them with protective sunglasses the next morning.
Also, continue to use the eye drops correctly as prescribed. On the first day of LASIK recovery, you may need someone to help you with them. Remember, you cannot drive yourself home after the surgery.
Week One after LASIK
Your doctor will see you the day after your surgery. She will check your vision, and make sure that your eyes are healing well. You can go back to work and start driving again the first week post LASIK surgery.
However, here is a list of precautions the first week after LASIK:
- Don’t use eye makeup or eye makeup remover
- Make sure your soap doesn’t get into your eyes
- Avoid areas of dust and smoke
- Avoid gardening
Month One After LASIK
Your doctor will reduce your eye drops during this time period. However, you may continue to feel some grittiness, dryness or discomfort. You can resume almost all normal activities within a week or two, but here are some precautions for the first month.
- Avoid swimming and hot tubs for a month.
- Avoid threading your eyebrows.
- Try and avoid using eye makeup. If you must, discard your old make up, and make up brushes to avid infections.
- Contact your doctor in case of any redness, excessive watering or pain.
Six Months after LASIK
You may have symptoms like dryness, halos, or glare. These symptoms usually go away or will be reduced significantly by six months post surgery. You also may not need lubricating eyedrops by this time. In most cases, your vision will be clear and stable.
However, in case you experience any discomfort, or blurred vision, please do contact your doctor.
Note: In case you require a LASIK enhancement, or a re-do, most doctors prefer to do it after six months. This is to allow the refractive error to stabilize after the procedure.
Long Term Aftercare
Remember, if you’ve had LASIK eye surgery, you are more susceptible to eye injuries. Use protective glasses during hazardous sports or DIY activities. Continue to use eye drops and medication as directed by your doctor.
Even after recovery, it is critical to protect your eyes. Use ultraviolet protective sunglasses when spending time outdoors. Use specially designed sports glasses or goggles for sports, and protective eyewear for yard work, and other activities that could be hazardous for eyes.
And as always, you must go back to your eye doctor for your annual comprehensive eye examination.
Enjoy your freedom from spectacles and contact lenses!
