What To Expect After LASIK Eye Surgery
Medically known as Laser in Situ Keratomileusis, LASIK eye surgery (also known as laser vision correction) is a laser procedure in which your eye doctor modifies the shape of the cornea and treats refractive errors. In layman’s terms, LASIK eye surgery is a common way for eye doctors to improve vision and reduce, or, in some cases, completely eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Although laser eye surgery has been wildly successful for the majority of the more than 20 million patients who have received the treatment, it’s always a good idea to talk to your ophthalmologist about what you can expect after surgery.
Immediately After LASIK Surgery
While there is about a 90-day adjustment period until your eyes fully adapt to the LASIK surgery, you will see more clearly almost immediately. LASIK surgery can be performed within 10 to 15 minutes per eye. As soon as the surgery is over:
- Do not drive until your vision has returned
- Mild burning or sensation within hours of surgery is normal
- Blurry vision is expected the day of surgery
- Vision progressively improves, and should be noticeably better 24 hours after surgery Traditionally, LASIK surgery patients experience very little downtime post procedure. It is a good idea, though, to allow yourself several hours to rest after the surgery. Most of those who have gone through the procedure are able to return to work the following day.
Days After LASIK Surgery
Even though recovery time for LASIK eye surgery is typically very short, you will want to take a few days off from physical activity. Your eye doctor may recommend taking it easy for at least three days. During the days of your first week post-surgery:
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes for at least the first week
- Do not wear eye makeup for one week
- Read in moderation
- Avoid water activities (swimming, hot tubs, whirlpools) for two weeks after surgery
- Do not rub your eye(s)
- Report all unusual side effects to your doctor
Months After LASIK Surgery
Your vision may slightly fluctuate for up to six months after LASIK eye surgery. After that six-month mark, however, your vision will completely stabilize. To avoid infection and reduce your chances of damaging your eyes, follow your eye doctor’s instructions for care.
After surgery, schedule follow-up visits with your primary eye doctor to keep track of your vision changes and to ensure you’re not experiencing any complications or infections. Your eye doctor will instruct you on how many follow-up visits are needed according to your individual response to the procedure. In addition, you will still need to have annual eye exams following laser eye surgery to safeguard the continued health of your eyes.
LASIK Eye Surgery Detroit Michigan
Vision Institute of Michigan has performed thousands of successful LASIK procedures. Combine our experienced staff with the latest LASIK technology, and you can rest assured that we are the top choice for your LASIK surgery. Call us today to schedule your free consultation. If you are interested in more information, check out our LASIK page.