LASIK eye surgery is a quick and painless procedure that corrects refractive errors by reshaping the cornea. Its effects are usually permanent, meaning you won’t have to depend as much on your contact lenses or eyeglasses. You will immediately notice an improvement in your vision following the surgery and only need a few days to recover.
Read on for tips on how to care for your eyes after LASIK surgery.
Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
Your eye doctor will provide detailed aftercare instructions following the procedure. They will give you an eye shield, which you must wear for a week while sleeping. Be sure to follow all their recommendations for a quick and successful recovery. Also, take the prescribed medications and eye drops.
Give Your Eyes a Break
Give your eyes some time to rest after LASIK. Experts recommend avoiding strenuous activities, including working out and playing sports, for two weeks to a month. Stay away from your smart devices, books and magazines for at least a day after surgery. Digital screens and print materials can strain your eyes, causing discomfort.
Go to Your Follow-Up Appointments
Expect your eye doctor to schedule a follow-up appointment the day after your procedure. They might ask you to pay another visit after around three to four weeks and another follow-up eye exam after six months. These appointments will allow them to determine if your eyes are healing well.
Keep Water Out of Your Eyes
You can shower or bathe the day after LASIK, but keep water, soap, shampoo and other bathing products away from your eyes. Don’t touch or rub your eyes while showering or bathing to reduce the risk of irritation and infection. Rubbing your eyes can also crease the corneal flap your doctor made during surgery.
Are you wondering if you are a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery? Consult your local optometrist at Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry. We provide pre- and post-operative care for LASIK patients. Call us at (703) 413-1400 (Crystal City) or (703) 522-7676 (Clarendon). You can also complete our online form to schedule an appointment. We look forward to assisting patients in Arlington, VA, and nearby areas.
