Post-operative examinations are required at 1 day, 2 - 3 weeks and 3 months from the surgery date for LASIK. These appointments are important because they help us to evaluate the healing process of your eyes and to guard against infection.
If you choose to use your own eye care professional, your doctor will require Pre- and Post-Operative forms. After your 24-hour Post-Operative appointment you will receive, via fax or mail or in person, your refractive surgical report and Post-Operative evaluation form for your own eye care doctor. The average Post-Operative appointment in our clinic takes approximately 15 minutes.
LASIK Post-Operative Instructions
After the surgery, ensure your eyes are closed for the first two hours. It is preferred that you lie down, relax, and close your eyes during this period. Watching television, reading or any type of computer work is to be avoided for the first 24 hours. Your eyes need to remain relaxed, and avoiding these types of activities will aid in preventing any unnecessary complications.
It is very important not to rub your eyes, as this will cause problems after the surgery. Wear the plastic eye shields every night for the first 7 nights following surgery. The purpose of the eye shields is to protect your eyes while you sleep so that you do not instinctively rub them.
A mild burning sensation will be experienced 2-4 hours after the surgery as the eye sedative applied during surgery wears off. This will be similar to if you were wearing a dirty or itchy contact lens. Tylenol, Advil or Ibuprofen will help reduce the discomfort.
Sunglasses will be provided to wear for the first 24 hours after the surgery. It is important to wear the sunglasses outside rain or shine. After the 24 hour period, you can wear your own sunglasses. For the next 7 days you should wear a pair for sunglasses outside to protect your eyes for the outside elements.
Try to take baths and not showers for the first 48 hours following surgery. When you do have showers, do not allow the shower to spray directly on your face for at least the first week. This will prevent any possible injuries to your eyes. Use a face cloth to wash your face during this time, paying extra attention to not rub your eyes. Your face may be washed as normal following the first week.
Avoid any eye makeup for 1 week. This includes mascara, eye shadow, eye liner or any other type of makeup around the eyes. Lotions and lipsticks are allowed to be worn.
Avoid any smoky or dusty environments for 1 week. These environments will irritate the eyes. If you are exposed to these types of environments, remember to apply additional lubrication with the artificial tears.
Avoid any alcohol consumption for the first 48 hours following the surgery. Alcohol increases your eye dryness and will restrict the healing process. Click here the LASIK drop schedule.