ASK THE (EYE) EXPERTS
Q: What are the limitations after LASIK eye surgery?
A (Dr. Wright): The short answer is not much. Most patients are able to return to work and their normal daily activities the very next day. However, on the day of surgery, immediately following the LASIK procedure, we recommend that all patients take off the remainder of the day and relax. While LASIK is a simple and minimally invasive procedure, it is still surgery, and it’s important to follow postoperative instructions to ensure a fast and healthy recovery. Following LASIK, your surgeon will give you sunglasses to wear outside and eye shields to protect your eyes while sleeping the first week after surgery. The numbing drops used during surgery will wear off 20 to 30 minutes after the procedure and your eyes may develop a very mild burning or itching sensation. This is temporary, but it may make you want to rub your eyes. It is very important that you abstain from rubbing your eyes during your LASIK recovery because the corneal flap created during the procedure, while self sealing, needs time to heal. Rubbing your eyes immediately after surgery will disrupt this process. Finally, to ensure a successful LASIK experience, it is essential that you attend all of your post-op appointments and follow all of your surgeon’s care instructions. Just like any other surgery, it is important to rest following the procedure, eat meals that promote good nutrition, and manage stress so your body can heal unimpeded. Curious if LASIK is right for you? Contact Mann Eye Institute to find out more and book a free consultation!