LASIK eye surgery is an extremely popular option for anyone who wants to enjoy clearer vision while reducing — or eliminating — their need for glasses or contacts. With high rates of patient satisfaction and decades of data behind it, LASIK is safe and effective for most patients with refractive vision problems.
While the actual surgery only takes about 15 minutes per eye, recovery takes a bit longer. Understanding what to expect in the first few days after LASIK surgery can help ease any anxiety you might be feeling while setting you up for a smooth healing process.
In this post, Rodrigo Belalcazar, MD, PLLC, and our team at Advanced Eye Center in Hialeah, Florida, offer a quick overview of that critical first week following surgery, so you can feel confident in your experience and results.
Your procedure is done. If you were feeling nervous, now it’s time to relax. You can expect your vision to be blurry right after surgery, and you’ll probably have some minor irritation or grittiness, almost like you have something in your eye. This is all normal.
You might notice your eyes are watery and extra sensitive to light. Again, this is normal. You should plan on taking it easy for the rest of the day and giving your eyes a rest. It’s important not to rub your eyes. In fact, we’ll give you eye shields to wear to prevent rubbing or pressing on them while you sleep.
You’ll also receive prescription eye drops. Use the drops exactly as prescribed to prevent infection and inflammation, as well as dryness and gritty sensations.
By day two, the benefits of surgery typically become a lot more noticeable. Most people experience significant improvements in vision, though it’s not uncommon to still have some blurriness, along with grittiness and sensitivity to light or dry air. Keeping artificial tears on hand can help.
You’ll want to avoid makeup, moisturizers, or other lotions or creams around your eye area. Also avoid water exposure to prevent irritation and infection. That includes showers and swimming.
By the third day, you’ll be able to resume most of your activities, but you still need to avoid anything strenuous like lifting and bending. Limit screen time as well, to prevent irritating and drying out your eyes.
Around the fourth or fifth day post-LASIK, your vision should be clearer, with blurriness pretty much subsided. You might still have some issues with night vision, and it’s a good idea to avoid nighttime driving for a little longer. Typically, night vision improves within a few weeks.
By now, you’re also ready to resume your daily routines, including work, but be sure to avoid exposure to dust or injury. Protect your eyes from sweat too. If you use a computer for long stretches at work, take frequent breaks to avoid dryness and irritation, and keep those artificial tears on hand.
Your vision should be much clearer and stable by now, although your eyes might feel a little dry from time to time. It’s still important to protect your eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses (a good habit at any time) and using lubricating eye drops as needed.
During your first week, you’ll also have a follow-up visit. Be sure to keep all your appointments so we can monitor your progress and healing. If you have sudden pain or your vision gets worse, call our office right away, as these can be signs of an infection.
If you’re ready to enjoy clearer vision without relying on corrective lenses, LASIK could be the solution you’re looking for. To find out more about LASIK, request an appointment with Dr. Belalcazar and our team at Advanced Eye Center today by calling 305-707-6011 or scheduling online.
