Feb 13 2008
What to Expect After LASIK Surgery
The moments preceding a significant event in your life are generally full of laughter, rejoicing, and revelry. However, this is typically not the case after surgery. In this respect, LASIK surgery differs in no way from other types of surgery. On the other hand, though, its disadvantages may differ somewhat from other surgical procedures.
The after effects of LASIK surgery are similar to being annoyed by a hyperactive little pet day after day. Unlike other surgical procedures that are accompanied by the healing of incisions or bruises, LASIK surgery is followed by much itching and burning in the eyes – an area that you aren’t always able to sufficiently cool or scratch. During the post-operative stage, touching your eyes could undo all the repairs made by the surgery.
After LASIK surgery, your vision will become blurred due to the excessive watering and tearing of your eyes. Unfortunately, you can’t touch your eye under any circumstances, so you just have to bear it. Your eyes may also appear dry or bloodshot for a number of days. IF this happens, then you may need to take some time off work until these symptoms pass. If at any time after LASIK surgery you begin to experience sever pain, then you should notify your surgeon.
Just to be sure the healing process is moving along well, you should go in for a post-operative exam within 24-48 hours after your surgery. After that you should continue seeing your doctor regularly for checkups up to six months after LASIK surgery.
During the first exam after LASIK surgery, your doctor will take off the protective shield to determine if your eye is responding accurately to the surgery. In order to prevent further irritation, you won’t be able to wear contact lenses for a while. Furthermore, you may have to keep your eyes lubricated with artificial tears or drops.
Your doctor will urge you to refrain from using perfumes and lotions that may irritate your eyes while also avoiding strenuous activities or contact sports. Your surgeon may also instruct you to wash your eyes regularly in the weeks after LASIK surgery in order to prevent infection.
Your vision may not become stable for several months after LASIK surgery. It’s also possible that you’ll experience a slight degree of vision impairment while in recovery. This could include everything from seeing halos to a small glare. No need to worry, though. This is a normal part of the healing process within the first few month following surgery. Contact your physician if they persist any longer.
