Once you decide on permanent specs removal, LASIK eye surgery takes just a few minutes to give you a lifetime of crystal-clear vision. The surgery is over in 10-15 minutes, but what about the aftercare? That’s what ensures long-term visual clarity & stability of surgery results.
It is absolutely crucial to follow proper recovery guidelines and aftercare tips. In this blog, we are going to walk you through the basics of LASIK, its recovery timeline, and steps you can take to ensure a smooth recovery.
What is LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK is short for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. It is a surgical procedure performed to reshape an irregular corneal shape that causes vision difficulties. A misshapen cornea does not let light properly reflect on the retina, leading to visual impairments such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
Typically, corrective glasses and lenses are advised to correct such conditions. But LASIK offers a permanent solution when it comes to achieving clear vision.
To get LASIK surgery, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria:
- At least 18 years of age
- Stable vision for at least a year
- Adequate corneal thickness
- No other eye condition
- Overall good health
Recovery Tips for 24-48 Hours After LASIK Eye Surgery
The first 24-48 hours after you undergo LASIK surgery are extremely crucial in ensuring your recovery. Immediately after the surgery, you might experience some sensitivity in your eyes – this is completely normal.
Here’s a list of the most vital tips you can follow for reduced discomfort:
- Use prescribed eye drops at the stipulated intervals as directed by your doctor.
- Make sure to keep your eyes closed to give them rest immediately after the procedure.
- Wear protective eyewear to safeguard your eyes from harmful UV rays and bright light. Avoid direct sunlight for the first week.
- Avoid strenuous activities that could hinder the corneal tissue’s healing process.
- Strictly avoid rubbing eyes or splashing water directly into your eyes.
Recovery Tips for 1-3 Weeks After LASIK Eye Surgery
The 1-3 week period after your LASIK surgery is when your eyes begin to properly heal and gain perfect visual clarity. While most patients report 100% clear vision immediately after surgery, the 1-3 week time period is when clear vision is accompanied by increased comfort.
Here’s a list of precautions to follow during week 1-3 post-LASIK:
- Continue your prescribed eye drop routine without slip-ups – this ensures your eyes remain amply lubricated, and reduces infection risk and inflammation.
- If you undergo a flap-based surgery, your corneal flap will likely still be in the healing phase. You must avoid rubbing your eyes.
- To promote faster healing, you must avoid applying eye makeup or skincare products.
- Avoid public places where you can catch bacterial infections (swimming pools, steam rooms, hot tubs, etc).
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule while using digital devices. Every 20 minutes of screen use, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds in order to reduce eye strain.
Tips For Long-Term LASIK Aftercare
LASIK aftercare in the long run includes multiple precautionary strategies, which can help stabilise your vision even more and ensure long-lasting results accompanied by good eye health.
- Continued lubricating eye drop use will ensure further corneal tissue healing and reduce inflammation, swelling and discomfort.
- Wear protective eyewear when going out in the sun.
- Consume a diet rich in minerals, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids (spinach, carrots, nuts, seeds, etc.).
- Stay hydrated to help stabilise the tear film and reduce the risk of dry eyes.
- Schedule regular follow-up appointments with your doctor for routine checkups.
Sohana Hospital has a range of advanced specs removal surgery options – Wavelight Plus InnovEyes, SMILE Pro, Contoura Vision, and Femto LASIK, etc. All these surgeries come with their unique set of advantages, while offering permanent freedom from specs.
Every procedure, no matter the technology, requires proper aftercare – ample rest, use of protective eyewear, and post-op medication (eye drops).
Sohana Hospital boasts a highly skilled team of 16+ ophthalmologists and dedicated support staff who take care of every patient throughout their specs removal journey. If you want the latest diagnostic tools, most advanced technology, and personalised care, we’ve got you covered!
Hailed as one the the best eye hospitals in Chandigarh, the institution strives to make eye care accessible to all with affordable prices and easy no-cost EMI options. Now you can enjoy clear vision without burning a hole in your pocket.
Sohana Eye Hospital – Trusted Eye Care Since 1995
