LASIK Laser Eye Surgery Aftercare
What are the LASIK Aftercare Instructions?
Congratulations on your new vision!
Many patients notice improvements in their vision in the first 24 hours, if not immediately after the surgery and find comfort in taking a brief nap while wearing protective eye shields. After LASIK, many patients are pleasantly surprised by how quickly their vision improves. Recovery is typically swift, with most individuals resuming their regular activities within a week of surgery. However, follow-up care is just as vital as the procedure itself. Proper post-LASIK care ensures a smooth healing process and ongoing comfort. Use the following tips to maximize your LASIK surgery experience.
- Try to take a nap or try to keep your eyes closed for 3-4 hours
- Wear eye protection (goggles or sunglasses) while you sleep the first 24 hours
- Use prescribed eyedrops per your doctors instructions
- If you feel any discomfort take a pain reliever that you normally take
- A few red spots on your eyes are normal and will go away
- Wear sunglasses when you are outside
- Continue follow-up care as needed
Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure that you schedule all follow-up visits with your eye doctor after your LASIK procedure. Even after laser vision correction, annual eye exams remain essential to maintain the health of your eyes.
Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: Regular follow-up appointments with your primary eye doctor are crucial, allowing for personalized adjustments based on your healing progress. Additionally, our post-operative LASIK care guide can be a valuable resource during the healing period.
Post-LASIK Follow-Up Care Timeline
- First Week: Your doctor will prescribe eye drops to minimize the risk of infection, inflammation, and dryness.
- First Few Months: Your doctor will monitor your healing to ensure your eyes are comfortable and your vision is clear. See a detailed timeline
Resuming Normal Activities After LASIK
Many patients return to work within a day or two after their LASIK procedure. However, it is important to adhere to the restrictions listed below. As long as you follow your doctor’s guidance, you should be able to return to your usual activities.
- Do not rub your eyes! (For up to a month after LASIK)
- Your doctor will inform you when it’s safe to drive, typically the day after surgery
- Refrain from vigorous exercise for one week
- Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and whirlpools for one week
- While smoking is permitted, be aware that smoke may irritate your eyes
- Avoid wearing eye makeup for up to one week
- Avoid gardening and dusty environments for one week
PRK Recovery: Similar to LASIK, PRK surgery corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. However, since PRK is performed differently, the recovery period may take slightly longer. Healing times can vary from person to person, so it’s important to discuss your recovery expectations with your LASIK surgeon.
What Can You Expect After LASIK Surgery?
For more details about what to expect after your LASIK eye procedure, visit:
Immediately After LASIK Procedure
Congratulations! Now that you have completed your laser eye surgery, take these simple LASIK recovery steps so that your eyes can perform their best.
1 Day After LASIK Procedure
Follow-up care/instructions and appointments at The LASIK Vision Institute are an important part of your recovery. We are committed to making sure you heal properly and are as comfortable as possible.
1 Week After LASIK Procedure
Most patients will attend a 1 week post op appointment, so if your doctor has scheduled one for you, be sure to attend. Continue to use your prescribed eye drops, as directed.
3 Weeks After LASIK Procedure
Amazingly, within 3 weeks after laser vision correction, strenuous activities and contact sports can be resumed with eye protection, including swimming.
3-6 Months After LASIK Procedure
In the 3-6 month period following your laser surgery procedure you should be gaining optimum vision as a result of your treatment.