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LASIK Recovery Time and Top 7 Tips for Smooth Recovery

by | Jul 23, 2018 | After Lasik, cost |

Considering corrective eye surgery? Wondering about the LASIK recovery time period?  

News flash: LASIK patients report that their eyes felt fairly normal the next day after surgery. I know, it’s hard to believe. As laser eye technology has evolved, so have recovery times post-surgery. That being said, it is important to understand that individuals with higher prescriptions are more likely to notice an improvement in their vision faster than those who have lower prescriptions. People with low prescriptions state that they noticed progression in their vision within 6-8 hours post-surgery.

Yes, it’s true! Vision increased within 24 hours of receiving LASIK.

First Day Post – LASIK Surgery

Eye doctor

 

Most eye surgeons will want to see you within 24 – 48 hours post-surgery. This is to ensure your eyes are healing correctly. The majority of patients who undergo LASIK surgery are able to return to work the very next day. Don’t be alarmed by mild discomfort, it is normal to feel as if there is an eyelash in the eye for a few weeks after your procedure. Another thing to keep in mind, is the importance of keeping your eyes lubricated for the first few weeks following your operation. Other than that, you may feel some itching or burning sensations.

 

3 Months Post – LASIK Surgery

Eyes lasik

 

Expect your eyes to take at least 3 months after LASIK surgery to fully heal. For some individuals, it can take up to 6 months for the eyes to fully recover. Don’t necessarily expect 20 20 vision immediately after your operation. Over the course of the 3 month healing period, you will see an increase in the quality of your vision. Since we all heal at different rates, it is nearly impossible to predict exactly how long your unique eyes will take to heal. 3-5% of patients will require an enhancement surgery after receiving LASIK. You’re surgeon will know whether or not this applies to you, once your eyes have stabilized post-surgery.

 

LASIK Recovery Tips:

  • Do NOT rub your eyes – This tip is exceptionally important, specifically during the first week post-LASIK surgery.
  • Administer your eye drops as prescribed by your surgeon – After the operation, your surgeon should go over a post-operation plan. This will include a prescription for eye drops which should be administered as prescribed. Side note: Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after using the drops to avoid any potential infections.
  • Stock up on sleep – This is crucial. The body does most of its repairing while we sleep. Resting your eyes as much as possible will ensure the eyes have enough time to heal.
  • Stay away from dirty / dusty environments – This one may be obvious, but is still worth mentioning. Following LASIK eye surgery, avoid spending time in rooms or areas with a lot of dust or debris. This includes smokey rooms, or areas with chemical vapors.
  • Rock your sunglasses – The eyes are especially sensitive to light after laser eye surgery, or LASIK. Try and stay out of the sun as much as possible during your recovery. If you do go outside, make an effort to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
  • Go without Makeup – For at least 1 week post-surgery, do not apply any eye makeup. The chemicals in the makeup may irritate eyes.
  • And finally, be patient! – After LASIK, you may experience a gritty feeling when you close your eyes or blink. Not to worry, this side effect will go away. Your eyes deserve the best treatment, take care of them after LASIK in order to enjoy all the benefits that come along with laser eye surgery.