Oh! So you’ve finally decided to bid goodbye to your glasses and contact lenses. Congratulations on deciding to undergo LASIK. But maybe there’s still some concern regarding the aftercare. Or maybe you would like to decide only once you iron out the minutest details, including the aftercare. Whatever the reason may be, you are at the right place at the right time!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about LASIK aftercare, from immediate post-op instructions to long-term maintenance. Let’s begin!
Immediate Postoperative Care
Immediately following your LASIK surgery, your eyes are going to be super sensitive. As a result, they may feel a little comfortable, too. So, to make sure you recover well, here’s what you need to remember:
Rest
Plan to take it easy after your operation. Since your eyes are still sensitive, any strenuous activity can add to your discomfort. This includes reading as well as watching something on your TV, laptop, or mobile. It might be difficult to stay away from your phone, but you will have to limit your screen time seriously. It is best you ask your doctor about the optimal time.
Eye Drops
Your surgeon will write you some medicated eye drops to help with healing and prevent infection after your LASIK surgery procedure. Use them as directed, typically every few hours, for the first few days. The eye drops will keep your eyes moisturized, preventing a common side effect of the surgery–dryness. Usually, eye drops are required approximately every 2 hours for nearly 10 weeks.
Protective Eyewear
It’s common to rub your eyes the moment it starts to feel a little itchy or grainy. But hey, you can’t be doing that after your LASIK operation. So, to help you resist the urge to rub your eyes, you may be given a pair of protective goggles to wear.
Also Read – LASIK vs. PRK: Which Vision Correction Procedure is Right for You?
First Few Days Post-Operation
Follow-Up Appointments
This one goes unsaid. Make sure to attend all your follow-up appointments post-surgery and keep your doctor updated in case you experience any unusual symptoms (more on this shortly!).
Back to ‘New’ Normal
You may be allowed to get back to some of your daily activities, but not all. You will have to avoid activities that could expose your eyes to dust, dirt, or other irritants. Additionally, refrain from swimming or using hot tubs to reduce the risk of infection.
Sunglasses
Our eyes are naturally sensitive to the sun’s rays, and even more so after LASIK. So, it is recommended that you wear sunglasses whenever you’re outdoors to protect your eyes from UV exposure.
Eye Out for Unusual Symptoms
Keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms, such as increased pain, redness, or vision changes. If you experience any of it, you know what to do, right? Call your surgeon!
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
Diet for Eye-Health
Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients is essential for keeping your eyes healthy and functioning optimally. So here are some healthy diet options:
| Vitamin A | Carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach, | Important for good vision, particularly in low-light conditions. |
| Vitamin C | Citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli | Helps reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). |
| Vitamin E | Nuts, seeds, and leafy greens | Acts as an antioxidant to protect your eyes from damage caused by free radicals. |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Salmon, trout, and mackerel | Can help prevent dry eyes and reduce the risk of AMD. |
Also Read– Role of Nutrition in Eye Health: Foods for Better Vision
Avoid Smoking
Regular smoking increases your risk of developing serious eye conditions. For instance, cataracts, AMD, and optic nerve damage. So, if you smoke, quitting is perhaps the best thing you can do to avoid increased risk.
Conclusion
LASIK surgery can be life-challenging in many ways. First, you no longer need to rely on glasses or contact lenses. Two, it may boost your self-confidence if you were previously uncomfortable wearing glasses in public.
So, by following these aftercare tips and staying careful about your eye health, you can enjoy the benefits of LASIK for years to come. And remember! If you have any concerns regarding your recovery process, don’t hesitate to ask your eye doctor specialist. They are the best source of information for you!