LASIK is a safe and effective vision correction procedure that allows patients to experience life with a reduced or eliminated dependence on eyeglasses and contact lenses. When preparing to have LASIK, it is natural to have questions, especially about what you can expect after treatment. Ahead, Johnson Laser Eye addresses common questions about LASIK recovery.
What Should I Expect in the First 24 Hours?
After your surgery, you will return home and prioritize resting your eyes. In fact, it is highly recommended that you go straight home and take a 3-hour nap. If you can’t fall asleep, just rest and keep your eyes closed as much as possible. Immediately after the procedure, your vision will be watery and blurry. Some mild burning is also common. These symptoms will all improve over the first day. Your vision should also improve rapidly over the first 12-24 hours but will fluctuate a lot over the first few days.
How Soon After LASIK Will I Be Able to See Clearly?
After LASIK, it is normal for your vision to seem a little filmy, and the healing process is a little different for everyone. Sometimes great vision happens almost right away, while for other patients it takes a little longer to reach the very best results. Most patients are legal to drive without glasses or contacts within one to two days after surgery, but please do not attempt to drive until you feel comfortable doing so.
Will My Eyes Hurt?
Some eye discomfort is normal after the topical anesthetic begins to wear off, but this can be successfully managed with pain relievers.
Are There Side Effects?
Eye dryness is common after LASIK, but artificial tears are prescribed to keep your eyes comfortable as they heal.
When Can I Resume Exercising After Surgery?
Patients can safely exercise one week after LASIK. If your workout routine includes swimming, be sure to wear protective goggles in the pool. Additionally, ensure that you do not rub sweat out of your eyes.
How Can I Avoid Complications?
Adhering to Dr. Johnson’s aftercare instructions is important for avoiding complications and experiencing a fast recovery. You should avoid rubbing or touching your eyes as they heal. In addition, you should not expose your eyes to any source of potentially contaminated water, such as hot tubs or public swimming pools. Patients should also shower carefully to ensure no chemicals or soaps, like shampoo, come into contact with the eyes. Use eye drops and medications exactly as directed. Post-operative instructions for eye drops are as follows:
- Use your medicated drops four times daily for one week after surgery then STOP.
- Continue preservative-free artificial tears every two hours.
- Stay on schedule and use your artificial tears BEFORE you feel like you need them.
- Continue to use artificial tears three to four times daily for three months after LASIK, even if your eyes do not feel dry.
Will I Have Follow-Up Appointments?
Yes, you will be scheduled to see Dr. Johnson after your surgery. The post-operative exams occur one day, one week, one month, three months, and as needed for up to one year. During your appointment, your eyes will be thoroughly examined, and your vision will be tested to monitor your LASIK recovery.
Schedule a LASIK Consultation Today
If you are considering LASIK, the first step toward clear vision is to consult with Dr. Johnson to determine your candidacy. Contact our office today to book your appointment.
