What to Expect After LASIK Eye Surgery

We strive to provide you with the highest quality of care at Hill Vision Services. Our board-certified Cornea Specialist and Refractive Surgeon, Dr. Geoffrey Hill, is specially trained in performing LASIK eye surgery services. With this expertise, we can help you attain your desired results through this safe and reliable procedure. You'll receive specialized attention from our experienced professionals throughout the surgery and on what to expect after LASIK eye surgery. LASIK, an acronym for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is a common eye surgery that can help reduce or even eliminate your reliance on glasses and contacts. The surgery reshapes the cornea to improve the eye's ability to focus light onto the retina. It begins with the surgeon forming a thin flap on the cornea's outermost layer, which exposes the underlying cornea. A laser eliminates tiny amounts of corneal tissue. After attaining the desired shape, the flap is carefully repositioned. LASIK is very popular, with about 600,000 surgeries performed annually in the United States alone. According to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, LASIK eye surgery has a 96% patient satisfaction rate. This gives LASIK the highest satisfaction rating among all cosmetic procedures!

Post-Surgery Guidelines for LASIK

Patients report having clearer vision within the first 24 hours upon the conclusion of the LASIK eye surgery; however, your vision will continue to improve over the first few months following the procedure. To gain full and proper recovery, some common guidelines must be followed. Immediately after the surgery, you should expect mild pain, general eye discomfort, and some redness. You may also experience watery eyes, but this is normal and should subside quickly. Make sure to use prescription eye drops & lubricating drops to relieve discomfort. You may have to pause some of your usual activities. Avoid anything that may cause strain or damage to the eyes during recovery. Your doctor will provide eye shields to prevent you from rubbing your eyes while you sleep. Steer clear of swimming or using eye makeup or creams, as they allow chemicals to get in or around your eyes. Additionally, your appointments with your doctor after the surgery are essential. These appointments will help determine if you're healing properly and will allow for the prevention and quick correction of any problems that arise in the healing process. It is also important to follow all of your doctor's instructions carefully and make sure to attend all follow-up visits as scheduled.

An Overview Timeline of LASIK Recovery

The recovery process for LASIK typically takes about 4-6 weeks, but some people may heal faster than others. Here is a general recovery timeline of the average person during the recovery process:

• Immediately after the procedure: After your surgery, you may experience some sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and slight discomfort in the eye. We recommend napping or keeping your eyes closed if it feels more comfortable in the first few post-operative hours. Avoiding bright lights may also improve comfort on the first day.

• Post Surgery - Day 1: Avoid straining your eyes; you may want to limit screen time or reading to stay comfortable. Try to keep your eyes closed and avoid getting soap or other products in your eyes when showering. You will be safe to drive when your vision is clear enough. You should be able to return to work and do other daily activities, such as watching television or using the computer, the following day.

• Weeks 1-2: You may start exercising again. Avoid anything that may cause eye irritation, such as eye makeup and creams, rubbing your eyes, or swimming in a pool. You must also wear sunglasses outdoors for the first week after surgery to avoid bright lights.

• Months 3-6: Your eyes will continue to heal, and your vision can progressively improve. Attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor to ensure the healing process goes smoothly. At Hill Vision Services, our staff of experienced professionals will be there every step of the way to answer any questions or concerns you may have and guide you through the recovery process.

When Can I Return to My Activities After LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK is an outpatient procedure, so patients can go home once the surgery is over, and most patients can even drive and return to work within a day or two. For good measure, we recommend resting for the remainder of the day. During this brief recovery period, the patient may experience the common symptoms of unstable vision, dryness, and glare. These are all part of the healing process and will gradually dissipate, usually with prescribed eye drops. Most patients can also return to exercising about a week after LASIK. Contact your doctor if you experience any vision changes or discomfort.

What Kind of Follow-Up Appointments Will I Need After LASIK Eye Surgery?

You must visit your doctor after your procedure for multiple follow-up visits. These appointments allow your doctor to check your eyes for complications and closely monitor the healing progress. These are necessary to determine the success of your surgery and ensure that your eyes continue to heal properly.

Achieve Clear Vision with Hill Vision

LASIK eye surgery's recovery process is straightforward and worth the lasting results. Our LASIK surgeon is experienced and highly trained in performing LASIK eye surgery procedures. With our expertise, you can expect a successful recovery and desired results with minimal side effects. Check out our LASIK surgery FAQs to answer any questions you may have. To learn more about Hill Vision's services, please contact us at (314) 567-7771 today. We look forward to helping you get the clear vision that you desire!