Scheduled eye exams are a part of LASIK recovery
Follow-up eye exams are part of recovery from LASIK surgery. Your LASIK physician will assess your recovery 24 to 48 hours post-surgery. At this appointment, they’ll perform a vision test, access the healing process, and address any questions or concerns you may have.
One-week, one-month, three-month, six-month, 12-month, and other periodic appointments should be scheduled with your LASIK surgeon, or referring Optometrist, to ensure the procedure was successful, and there are no signs of complications.
What to Expect After LASIK Surgery
During LASIK, an ultraviolet laser is used to re-shape your cornea so light is focused more accurately on the retina for improved vision. Vision should be less blurry, without glasses, after the 10- to 15-minute outpatient procedure. It’s recommended that you see your eye care professional at regular intervals for at least six months after the procedure. Immediately after LASIK it is common to feel a gritty feeling. Other common symptoms immediately after the procedure include:
- Burning and itching
- Teary eyes
- Hazy or blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
- Glares and haloes
- Bloodshot eyes
After effects usually clear up within six hours and the patient’s vision may improve within a few days. Within 48 hours, vision should be restored enough to perform daily tasks such as driving or using a computer.
Even with LASIK surgery, one’s vision can change throughout their life. About five percent of LASIK eye surgery patients receive enhancements later. The results of the procedure, however, can last for many years.
Proper Care After LASIK
Eye exams after LASIK are an important part of recovery. In most cases, blurriness will improve by the next day. A shield or eye patch is worn until the first post-operative exam to protect the corneal flap created during the surgery. There shouldn’t be any pressure on the eye until it starts healing. Rubbing the eye can cause the flap to move or come loose. Other activities that should be avoided include:
- Contact sports such as karate, boxing, and football, for at least four weeks after surgery.
- Swimming and hot tubs should be avoided for up to two months.
- Lotions, creams, or eye makeup should be avoided for two to four weeks after the operation.
Pain medication may be prescribed to relieve any discomfort.
LASIK is beneficial for many people with nearsightedness or astigmatism. Complications are generally rare, but postoperative care is key. Scheduled eye exams after LASIK help to ensure the eye is healing and the best possible outcome is achieved.
At Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center, we know that any eye surgery is a big decision. If you’re interested in improving your vision, or have questions about post-LASIK care, take our LASIK Self-Evaluation Test or contact us today!
