LASIK eye surgery offers a convenient way to improve your vision without needing glasses or contacts. But to get the best results, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. There are a few things you should avoid after the procedure to help with healing and prevent complications. Here are five things you should never do after LASIK surgery.
1. Don’t Rub Your Eyes
It’s tempting to rub your eyes, especially if they feel dry or irritated after surgery. However, doing so can interfere with the healing process. After LASIK, your eyes are more delicate than usual, and rubbing them may disturb the flap created during surgery. This can delay healing or cause other complications.
To manage discomfort, use the lubricating eye drops recommended by your doctor. These drops help keep your eyes moist and reduce irritation. If your eyes feel dry, avoid the urge to rub and instead rely on the drops or gently close your eyes for a moment.
2. Don’t Skip Follow-Up Appointments
After your LASIK procedure, your doctor will schedule several follow-up visits to check on your recovery. These appointments are important for monitoring your healing progress. Even if your vision feels perfect, it’s essential to attend each appointment.
Your doctor may adjust your treatment or provide additional guidance based on your healing progress. Skipping these appointments could lead to unnoticed issues that could affect your long-term results. Remember, these visits don’t take much time but are key to making sure your eyes recover properly.
3. Don’t Use Non-Recommended Eye Drops
While it might seem like a good idea to use over-the-counter eye drops to soothe irritation, they’re not all created equal. Many non-prescription drops can contain chemicals or preservatives that aren’t ideal for post-LASIK eyes. Your doctor will recommneded you specific eye drops designed to promote healing and prevent infection.
Stick to the recommended drops and avoid using anything else unless your doctor approves it. Using the wrong kind of eye drops could irritate your eyes or slow down the healing process. When in doubt, ask your doctor before applying any eye products.
4. Don’t Expose Your Eyes to Water
In the week following LASIK surgery, you need to protect your eyes from direct exposure to water. Whether it’s from swimming pools, hot tubs, or even the shower, water can introduce bacteria into your healing eyes and increase the risk of infection.
For the first week, avoid activities like swimming or using saunas. When you shower, be cautious and try not to get water or soap in your eyes. If you need to wash your face, use a damp cloth, and be mindful of keeping it away from your eyes. Protecting your eyes from water helps you heal without added risks.
5. Don’t Strain Your Eyes Too Soon
After LASIK, it’s normal to want to get back to your daily routine as soon as possible. However, overusing your eyes too soon can cause strain and delay recovery. Activities like reading, using a computer, or watching TV for long periods can make your eyes feel tired.
Give your eyes plenty of time to rest, especially in the first few days after surgery. Take frequent breaks if you need to use a screen, and avoid any activity that requires intense focus. As your eyes heal, you’ll gradually be able to return to normal screen use and other daily tasks. Be patient with the process.
What to Expect After LASIK
You may experience some mild discomfort after LASIK, such as dryness or sensitivity to light. This is normal and typically resolves within a few days. Your vision will continue to improve over time, and most people achieve full results within a few weeks.
During your recovery, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions closely. Avoid activities that could harm your eyes and use your prescribed eye drops as directed. By giving your eyes time to heal, you’ll enjoy better vision without the need for glasses or contacts.
Preparing for Your LASIK Recovery
Before your surgery, make sure you have everything you’ll need to make your recovery as smooth as possible. Stock up on your prescribed eye drops, arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment, and plan to take it easy for the first few days after surgery.
It’s also a good idea to schedule time off work, especially if your job involves using a computer for long hours. Giving your eyes a break from screen time during recovery will help them heal more quickly.
Should You Consider LASIK?
LASIK is a popular and effective option for many people looking to improve their vision. It’s a relatively quick procedure with a high success rate, and most patients experience a noticeable improvement in their vision within a few days.
If you’re considering LASIK, the best step is to schedule a consultation with an experienced eye doctor. They’ll evaluate your eyes, discuss your vision goals, and help you determine if LASIK is the right option for you.
Need Help? Schedule a Consultation
Are you thinking about LASIK surgery? Do you have questions about the recovery process? Schedule a consultation with SuraVision today by calling 713-730-2020. Our expert team is here to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you have.
By following these simple steps, you can help make sure your recovery from LASIK is smooth and your results are lasting.