What do I need to do after the LASIK surgery?

LASIK surgery has revolutionized vision correction, offering a life-changing solution for individuals seeking freedom from glasses and contact lenses. While the procedure is quick and minimally invasive, it is essential to follow specific post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery and achieve optimal results. Below, we outline the most important precautions you should take after undergoing LASIK surgery.

1. Avoid Touching or Rubbing Your Eyes

After LASIK surgery, your eyes are particularly sensitive. Rubbing your eyes can dislodge the corneal flap, which was created during the procedure to access the underlying cornea. This can lead to complications such as infection or delayed healing. To prevent this, it is crucial to refrain from touching or rubbing your eyes, especially in the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery.

Wear Eye Shields While Sleeping

It’s common for patients to unintentionally rub their eyes while sleeping. To avoid this, your surgeon will likely recommend wearing protective eye shields for the first few nights after surgery. These shields will act as a physical barrier, preventing any accidental pressure on your eyes.

2. Follow the Prescribed Eye Drop Routine

Your surgeon will prescribe a combination of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops to aid in healing and prevent infection. It is essential to adhere to the schedule outlined by your doctor, as these drops play a vital role in keeping your eyes moist and reducing inflammation. Skipping doses or stopping too early can hinder your recovery.

Use Lubricating Eye Drops Frequently

In addition to medicated drops, you will also need to use artificial tears to keep your eyes hydrated. LASIK surgery temporarily reduces the eye’s ability to produce natural tears, leading to dryness. Artificial tears should be used regularly to avoid discomfort and ensure your eyes stay moisturized during the healing process.

3. Avoid Water Exposure

Water can introduce bacteria and irritants to your healing eyes, increasing the risk of infection. For at least a week after LASIK surgery, you should take steps to minimize any water contact with your eyes.

No Swimming or Hot Tubs

Swimming pools, hot tubs, and even natural bodies of water such as lakes or oceans can harbor bacteria. Exposure to these environments can cause serious complications after LASIK surgery. Avoid swimming for at least two weeks or until your surgeon gives you the green light.

Be Careful While Showering

While it’s fine to take showers after LASIK surgery, you need to be careful to prevent soap, shampoo, or water from getting into your eyes. Tilt your head back when washing your hair and avoid directing the shower stream towards your face.

4. Stay Away from Eye Makeup

Eye makeup, including mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow, can carry bacteria and particles that could irritate or infect your eyes after surgery. It is recommended to avoid wearing eye makeup for at least a week after the procedure. Additionally, you should consider purchasing new eye makeup products, as bacteria can accumulate in older items.

Remove Contact Lenses Before Surgery

If you typically wear contact lenses, you’ll need to stop wearing them well before your LASIK surgery date. Contacts can alter the shape of your cornea, which may affect the outcome of the surgery. Your surgeon will advise you on how long to stop wearing contacts, which can range from a few days to several weeks depending on the type of lenses you use.

5. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays

After LASIK surgery, your eyes are more sensitive to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) rays. To protect your eyes, it’s crucial to wear UV-blocking sunglasses whenever you’re outdoors, even on cloudy days. This will not only protect your healing eyes but also reduce the risk of photophobia (light sensitivity), which is common during the recovery phase.

Limit Time Outdoors

In the first week following LASIK surgery, it’s best to minimize time spent outdoors, particularly in bright sunlight. Excessive exposure to sunlight can cause discomfort and slow the healing process. When you do go outside, ensure you wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection.

6. Avoid Hard Activities and Exercise

Physical activity can put pressure on your eyes and increase the risk of injury during the healing process. It is recommended to avoid hard activities such as heavy lifting, running, or contact sports for at least a week after surgery.

Postpone Sports and Gym Workouts

High-impact sports or any activities that involve sudden movements or force can pose a threat to your eye recovery. Avoid sports like basketball, tennis, and martial arts for several weeks. For lighter exercises such as yoga or walking, consult your surgeon to determine when it’s safe to resume these activities.

Be Cautious with Sweat

While exercising, sweat can drip into your eyes, causing irritation and discomfort. If you do engage in light activities, make sure to have a clean towel handy to wipe away any sweat from your face, avoiding contact with your eyes.

7. Follow Up with Your Surgeon

Regular follow-up visits are crucial to ensure that your eyes are healing correctly. During these appointments, your surgeon will monitor your vision progress and check for any potential complications. It is important to attend all scheduled post-operative appointments, even if you feel your recovery is going well.

Report Any Unusual Symptoms

While mild discomfort, dryness, and blurred vision are common after LASIK surgery, certain symptoms should prompt immediate attention. If you experience severe pain, significant changes in vision, or persistent redness, contact your surgeon immediately. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure a smooth recovery.

8. Limit Screen Time

Digital screens can cause eye strain and dryness, slowing your recovery process. For the first few days after surgery, limiting screen time on devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers is advisable.

Take Regular Breaks

When you resume using screens, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This will help reduce eye strain and keep your eyes lubricated.

Experience Advanced Eye Care at Dr. Eye Institute – Leading Eye Hospital in Andheri, Mumbai

Dr. Eye Institute, a leading eye hospital in Andheri, Mumbai, offers advanced eye care services with a team of experienced ophthalmologists. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the hospital specializes in treatments ranging from LASIK surgery and cataract procedures to comprehensive eye exams. Committed to delivering personalized care, Dr. Eye Institute ensures that every patient receives top-quality treatment in a comfortable environment, making it the preferred choice for eye care in Andheri, Mumbai.