The LASIK refractive surgery is one of the wonderful things brought about by advancements in technology. With this corrective procedure a lot of splendid changes could take place in a matter of minutes. With the modern technology and a great LASIK doctor, a very high success rate could be expected.
It is important though that the patient will do his part in the post operative care in order to prevent complications from setting in.
Post-Operative Examinations
Post-operative check-ups are very important. It is in this time when evaluation of the outcome of the procedure is being done. Keep your appointments with your doctor since it will consist of monitoring your eyesight, the corneal flap, and the over-all health of your eye. Basically, the schedule of check-up will be done a day after, 1 week after, 3 months after, 6 months after, and in a year.
Eye Protection
The corneal flap is not sutured since it is expected to adhere by itself in a period of 1 to 2 weeks. It is important for you to remember not to rub your eye during the given period. You may wipe your eye using a tissue or washcloth but be sure to do it gently. If you are having a hard time keeping your hands off your eyes, you can ask for an eye shield from your ophthalmologist.
Bathing
Taking a shower or bath the day following the procedure will be fine. Just be sure to make the necessary steps to prevent water from entering your eye. Do not let water from the shower hit your face directly. This precaution should be abided for at least a week after the surgery. You can still wash your face or shave but be very careful so water or soap will not get into your eye. Also, you should avoid swimming or Jacuzzis for at least two weeks after your eye operation.
Make-up
For the first week after your surgery, refrain from wearing mascara, eyeliner, and eye shadow to eliminate the probability of make-up from getting inside your eye and sticking to the corneal flap before it heals.
Activities
On the evening following the procedure, it is suggested that the patient should go home and rest. You can watch television or do some reading, just don’t do it for long periods of time. Take things easy since overdoing it might cause strain to your eye and may result in mild irritation.
If you wish to perform activities and sports be sure to wear a protective shield as a precaution for the first few weeks. Some activities may pose a threat to your eyes since there is a possibility of hitting or having a direct blow to your operated eye.
Working
Most patients are able to return to work the day after their surgery. Just be sure to take the necessary precautions in order to avoid untoward incidents.
Driving
Majority of patients who have undergone refractive surgeries are able to drive by themselves the day following their operation. You could resume driving on your own once you feel comfortable with your eyesight.
Exercise
Exercising may be resumed as you wish but be sure to wear a protective shield to avoid sweat from getting into your eye and to limit the possibility of causing a direct blow on your operated eye. Be sure to keep your hands clean and keep them away from your eye a few weeks after undergoing a refractive surgery.
Medications
It is recommended that you take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain reliever to alleviate the pain and discomfort that is expected. On the first night following your eye surgery mild irritation, redness, and tear production may be noticed. Sometimes it may even feel like there is a strand of hair or a scratch inside your eye.
Flarex and Ciloxin will also be prescribed. You have to use these medications for a period of one week unless you are told to discontinue. Give one drop of each to the operated eye. This should be done four times a day during breakfast, lunch, dinner, and at before going to sleep.
Tears Naturale will also be prescribed since it will help in the eye’s lubrication and to lessen the irritation as well. Drying of the eye is expected especially a few days following the surgery. You may use this as often as you need them. In case that you have just placed an eye medication, allow a few minutes to pass before putting this. This acts in a similar manner as a tear would and might in fact wash off the medication. You can also use this even if you do not experience irritation in your operated eye.
Although pain and irritation is expected for a time, you have to be vigilant. If severe or increasing pain or a significant blurring of vision is experienced call your ophthalmologist right away to report what is happening.
