What to Expect During LASIK Recovery
June 12, 2024
If you've made the exciting life-changing decision to get LASIK surgery, you may soon have greater visual freedom than you have ever experienced. Once you've confirmed that you're a good candidate and gone through the precise procedure, the final step to getting the vision you deserve is a successful and smooth recovery.
Keep reading to learn more about what to expect during LASIK recovery!
You Will Likely Notice Improvement in Your Vision Right Away
One of the most exciting aspects of LASIK recovery is how quickly you may start to see results. Many patients report noticing a significant improvement in their vision within the first twenty-four hours after the procedure.
However, it's important to rest your eyes and avoid any strenuous visual activities during this initial period. Of course, every person's healing process is unique.
Some may achieve clear vision within the first few days, while others may need a bit more time for their vision to fully stabilize. Age, pre-surgery prescription, and individual healing factors can all play a role.
Seeing the world clearly with your own eyes is an incredible feeling after a lifetime of relying on glasses or contacts.
Your Eyes May Initially Feel Dry or Uncomfortable
One of the most common side effects patients report is that their eyes may feel dry, itchy, or uncomfortable immediately after the procedure and for a few days after. You may also notice some redness in your eyes.
It is tempting to want to rub your eye, but it is very important not to rub or scratch your eye during the healing process, as it could affect the healing of your corneal flap. Eye doctors often recommend using lubricating eye drops to ease any dryness or irritability after the procedure.
Your eye will continue to heal over time and these side effects will diminish.
Your Eyes May Feel Sensitive to Light Temporarily
In the days following LASIK, your eyes may feel more sensitive to light than usual. Sunglasses can help manage this temporary side effect when you're outdoors.
You may want to avoid overly bright indoor lighting as well. Light sensitivity typically subsides within a week as your eyes heal.
You Will Need to Protect Your Eyes While They Heal
After LASIK surgery, it's crucial to protect your eyes as they heal to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results. Your eye doctor will provide you with specific instructions to safeguard your eyes in the early stages of healing.
You should avoid any activities that could introduce contaminants into your eyes, such as swimming or using hot tubs, for the first week or as directed by your LASIK surgeon. When outdoors, wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV rays, wind, and debris, as your eyes will be more sensitive during the healing process.
Following these protective measures diligently after LASIK will help minimize the risk of complications and promote a successful recovery.
Can I Drive Myself Home From the Procedure?
Since LASIK is an office procedure that does not require general anesthesia, many patients want to know if they are allowed to drive themselves to and from the procedure. Though you may feel well after LASIK, you will not be allowed to drive.
You must have a friend or family member take you home after the procedure. Before you go home, your eye doctor's office will also schedule follow-up appointments so that your LASIK surgeon can ensure that your eyes are healing properly.
It is important that you don't miss any of the follow-up appointments so the doctor can check your progress.
Can I Wear Eye Makeup After LASIK?
After LASIK surgery, it's important to avoid wearing eye makeup for a while to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. Your LASIK surgeon will provide you with specific guidelines, but typically, you should wait at least one week before applying any eye makeup, including mascara, eyeliner, and eye shadow.
When you do start wearing makeup again, start with new, unopened products to minimize the risk of infection. Be gentle when applying and removing makeup, avoiding the eye area as much as possible.
If you experience any irritation or discomfort, stop using the product and consult your eye doctor.
When Can I Go Back to Work?
How soon you will be able to go back to work after LASIK surgery will vary depending on individual factors and the nature of your job. Most patients are able to return to work within a day or two after the procedure, as long as their vision has stabilized sufficiently for their job requirements.
However, if your work involves strenuous physical activity, dust, or other potential eye irritants, you may need to wait a bit longer. It's essential to consult with your eye doctor for personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.
They will assess your healing progress and job demands to determine the appropriate timeline for your safe return to work. If you work in front of a computer screen for extended periods, it's important to take frequent breaks to rest your eyes, especially in the first week after surgery.
Your LASIK surgeon will provide you with guidance on how to manage digital eye strain during your recovery.
Do you want to learn more about LASIK recovery or determine if you might be a candidate? Schedule a LASIK consultation at SIEHT in Fredericksburg or Stafford, VA, today!