LASIK - What to expect post-op

Immediately following the operation, the equipment restraining the patients' head and eyelids will be removed, and patients will be given anti-inflammatory eye drops to hydrate the eyes and prevent irritation.  Your doctor will examine your eyes to determine that the corneal flap is properly repositioned and that your eyes are free of debris or any unusual irritation.

Your surgeon or one of the nurses will also give you a checklist detailing behaviors to avoid and normal post-op symptoms.  This list will also include more serious side effects and your doctor's contact information in case of an emergency. 

LASIK patients will be given a prescription for more anti-inflammatory eye drops as well as for a course of antibiotics to protect the eye during the recovery period. Some surgeons will also recommend that the eyes remain covered immediately following the operation due to increased light sensitivity. For this reason, LASIK surgery patients should always make transportation arrangements prior to undergoing the procedure.

You will likely have a follow-up appointment scheduled for the next day, so the surgeon can further assess the results of the operation. While your vision will likely have already improved dramatically, we recommend avoiding eye strain by having someone else drive you to this appointment.

Patients will be advised to wear sunglasses during the day and goggles at night and while bathing for a set period of time following the operation. The sunglasses protect your sensitive eyes from the light and your healing corneal tissue from debris.  Likewise the goggles protect your eyes from abrasive water or soap in the shower and from unintentional rubbing while you sleep. Some mild pain and discomfort, redness, and irritation of the eyes are normal immediately following the procedure. 

These symptoms are to be treated with a mild painkiller like aspirin or Tylenol.  If however the pain becomes more intense, patients should contact their doctor immediately.  It may be necessary to use a stronger painkiller or even to schedule an immediate follow-up appointment to assess the situation.

LASIK patients will be advised to return to their homes and rest for a period of 24-48 hours immediately following the procedure.  During this time, they are to wear either their shades or their goggles continuously and to use artificial tears regularly to prevent the development of dry eyes (one of the most common side effects of LASIK). 

After this initial recovery period, patients will still need to refrain from using certain cosmetics around the eyes or engaging in strenuous activities for an additional period of several days.  If after an extended period of time the patient does not experience optimal results, they may discuss additional corrective procedures with their surgeon.