Tips for a fast recovery after Lasik eye surgery

In this age of high-tech solutions for almost every situation, it should come as no surprise that there is a high-tech solution to vision problems through Lasik laser eye surgery. This procedure has become quite popular, and for several good reasons.

There is a fast recovery time, vision improvement is practically immediate, and the risk of complications is very low. But, to make sure the best results are obtained and to further minimize potential problems, there are a few things patients should do after Lasik eye surgery.

One of the first things people want to know when considering corrective eye surgery is how long it will be after the surgery before they can return to their normal daily activities. The good news is that recovery from this type of laser eye surgery is fairly quick, and within a couple of days after the procedure, most people can return to normal life, except without the hassle of needing their glasses or contact lenses.

Immediately after Lasik eye surgery, it is strongly recommended to carefully avoid any type of activity that may result in something touching, rubbing, or poking the eyes. During the first hours after laser eye surgery in the clinic, the patient is advised to rest and keep the eyes closed as much as possible.

Once these few hours after surgery have passed, the patient can return to their usual activities, either at home or at work. Still, rubbing the eyes should be avoided for a few days and if dryness or itching occurs, the patient should use lubricating eye drops to help relieve irritation and soothe the eyes. Most Lasik Eye Center facilities will provide the patient with eye drops for this very purpose.

After corrective eye surgery, it is also recommended that patients wear a soft protective eye mask overnight so that the affected eyes are cushioned and protected from inadvertent bumps, scrapes, or rubbing. This also helps to ensure that no foreign objects enter the eyes during this short recovery period from Lasik vision surgery.

While historically there has been a very low incidence of infections with laser eye surgery in general, some surgeons will prescribe antibiotics as a precaution. If antibiotics, or any other medications, have been prescribed, it is important to take these medications exactly as prescribed by your Lasik eye doctor. Also, most doctors will recommend that you drink plenty of water to ensure that your eyes are adequately hydrated during the healing process.

After Lasik eye surgery, it is also a good idea to avoid showering to prevent soap and water from entering the eyes. The patient can quickly return to normal reading, watching television, and working on the computer screen as long as he remembers to keep the eyes well lubricated with artificial tears. With these few precautions, soon the patient will simply enjoy better vision.