As with any surgery, following your doctor’s instructions and taking certain precautionary measures is important even after a laser eye surgery. Take a look at this article to learn about how to protect your eyes after surgery to avoid any complications.
After lasik surgery, take these precautions to prevent any injury or infection:
1. Don’t take a shower or wash your hair until the day after. Also, avoid getting non-sterile water from showers into your eyes during the first few days of surgery.
2. Allow your eyes to rest and recover completely after the surgery. Avoid indulging in any strenuous activities for a few days.
3. Take a nap for few hours immediately after surgery. Even resting with your eyes closed will reduce discomfort and help with speedy recovery.
4. Refrain from rubbing or touching your eyes for at least a month to prevent irritation or injury.
5. Use eye drops as prescribed by your doctor to prevent infection and promote healing.
6. Wear eye shield given by the doctor while you sleep for the first week.
7. Protect your eyes from bright sunlight and dust by wearing sunglasses. Also, use protective eyewear during activities that could potentially impact your eyes.
8. Steer clear of swimming pools, whirlpools, saunas, and lakes for at least 3 week to prevent waterborne infections until your doctors allows you to do so.
9. Don’t get your hair coloured or permed for at least 10 days.
10. Avoid wearing eye make-up for at least 1 week after the surgery. Also, do not apply any creams or lotions around the eye.
11. Limit screen time especially in the first few days after surgery to prevent or reduce eye strain.
12. Wear sunglasses on bright days for at least a year as exposure to bright sunshine may cause scarring.
13. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist to monitor your healing progress and address concerns, if any.
14. Follow post-op care instructions strictly to ensure optimal healing and outcomes.
It is important to maintain a proper hygiene after laser eye surgery. Washing your face after the treatment requires extra care and attention to avoid any infection or irritation. Here’s how to do it effectively:
1. Opt for a mild, non-irritating, gentle facial cleanser specifically formulated for sensitive skin.
2. Avoid direct water contact with your face for first few days after surgery.
3. Gently pat your face dry after washing with a clean, soft towel.
4. Be gentle around eyes. Avoid any pressure or rubbing.
5. Avoid using harsh products like exfoliants, scrubs, or facial masks.
6. Before touching your face wash your hands thoroughly.
7. Follow doctor’s instruction on how to wash your effectively.
Based on the stages in which healing with happen, here is a recovery timeline:
1. Expect maximum discomfort in the eyes within the first few hours of surgery. However, within 1 to 3 days it will subside.
2. In the next 24 to 48 hours, you would be able to walk normally. You can expect pain and vision fluctuation during this time however the surgical side-effects will recede.
3. Within a week, 70% to 90% post-operative symptoms will disappear.
4. Within 6 months of surgery, almost all of the physical discomforts will go away.
Make sure you visit the doctor as scheduled to eradicate any complications.
Some complications or issues may arise, post treatment that will require medical attention. Here are some situations when you should consult a doctor:
• Eye redness or swelling
• Discharge or tearing
• Change in vision
• Flap complications
LASIK surgery is a popular and effective method of correcting vision problems. After the surgery, you can retain your normal vision by adopting the above-listed strategies that help your eyes heal better.
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Source: webmd.com, manipalhospitals.com, visualaidscentre.com, medfin.in, hexahealth.com
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.
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Published on June 05, 2024