Although laser eye surgery is a relatively simple and standard procedure, it is still a significant life event.
You may have been wearing glasses or using contact lenses for many years or suffering from a vision-limiting condition, and laser eye surgery has been the answer to your problems.
However, one area that people need to think about is the aftercare.
After the build-up and apprehension of getting the procedure done, it’s time to make sure you take care of yourself during recovery.
Things You Should Do After Laser Eye Surgery
There are some vital steps you need to take post-surgery. Skipping any of them might lead to a longer recovery time or complications. Let’s take a look at what you should do.
Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
Your surgeon is a laser eye surgery expert, so follow any guidance and advice given.
They’ll be able to answer any questions you have regarding aftercare and will be able to give you information leaflets to have a look through at a later time.
Following the instructions given will give you a quick and smooth recovery period.
Want To Find Out If You’re Suitable?
If you’re wondering whether laser eye treatment is the right choice for you, there are some key things to consider…
Use The Prescribed Eye Drops
Immediately after your laser eye surgery, you will likely experience some discomfort and might find yourself sensitive to any lights.
You’ll be given eye drops to protect your eyes, and it’s vital that you take them exactly as prescribed. If you are unsure, your surgeon can advise you on how to take them.
Take Some Time To Rest And Recover
Taking care of yourself during the recovery period is essential, and that means taking time to rest.
You should take a short nap post-procedure and take it easy for the first few days.
Attend All Of Your Follow Up Appointments
It’s vital that you attend all of your follow-up appointments with your laser eye clinic.
They will check in with you to ensure that the surgery has worked as planned and will be able to give ongoing advice and guidance on how to keep your eyes healthy.
Protect Your Eyes
It’s recommended that you initially wear sunglasses or protective eyewear when going outside to shield your eyes from the light and the risk of injury whilst your eyes are healing.
It’s also essential to protect your eyes when sleeping, and you’ll be given an eyeshield to wear so you can rest whilst allowing your eyes to heal safely.
Things You Should Avoid After Laser Eye Surgery
It’s easy to forget the information given to you, especially if there are words and terms used that you need to become more familiar with.
However, you must follow these steps and avoid doing the following during your laser eye surgery aftercare.
Driving Home
Your eyes need time to heal, and you may not gain full vision for 24-48 hours after the procedure. Therefore, it is not safe to drive home immediately post-surgery.
You should have a friend or a family member to take you home safely.
Bright Light & Using Electronics
Your eyes will be susceptible to light post-procedure, so avoiding direct lights should be a priority.
Using non-prescriptive sunglasses or protective eyewear is a popular choice to keep your eyes safe and allow them to heal.
You should avoid using a screen, including mobile phones, during the remainder of the day after your surgery.
Touching or Rubbing Your Eyes
Touching your eyes and face is a habit that many people subconsciously do. However, keeping your eyes dirt free is a priority immediately after having laser eye surgery.
Your eyes will be sensitive and uncomfortable; however, rubbing or touching your eyes will not take away the discomfort.
Ask your surgeon for different ways to deal with the discomfort and avoid contamination.
Wearing Eye Makeup
You should avoid wearing eye makeup for at least a week post-surgery.
You need to keep your eyes clean and free from any bacteria to reduce the risk of infection, and although wearing eye makeup may help you look and feel better, it’s too much of a chance.
Showering Or Swimming
You should keep your eyes water free for around two weeks after your surgery to give your eyes the best chance of recovery.
You should avoid showers during the first 48 hours. You could take a bath instead, but just keep your eyes covered and away from water as much as possible. Once you restart showering, don’t direct the water jets directly at your face.
Skip swimming for two weeks. Importantly, don’t use the small type of swimming goggles for one month. They can exert a lot of suction on the eyes. However, using a face mask for swimming is fine two weeks after treatment.
Playing Sports Or Exercising
The advice differs slightly depending on the type of sport and exercise you want to participate in.
You should avoid high-contact sports for at least a month after your procedure. However, most people can return to regular sporting activities and exercise routines a week after surgery.
Specific martial arts involve finger grabs towards the face. In this case, lay off for three months.
Your surgeon can provide more specific details depending on your situation.
Conclusion
Laser eye surgery can bring many benefits in the long term, and you must follow the after-care guidance given to you to ensure you provide the surgery with the best chance of success.
At Focus Clinic, we are dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible experience and achieve outstanding results.
We provide expert advice and guidance on recovering quickly and enjoying your new eyesight.
