Keeping Your Eyes Safe Post LASIK
by Aaron Barriga
LASIK is a kind of an eye surgery that rectifies vision impairment and other eye-related problems. This procedure is safe, painless and is being opted by many people. Though this procedure gives great results, Lasik surgery post operative care is crucial and you need to follow a few precautions to ensure the success of the surgery; also to avoid post-operative complications that have the potential to harm your vision.
9 Preventive Measures to Follow Post LASIK Surgery
Arrange alternate transportation post-surgery
When you have just come out of the surgery, do not even think about driving back on your own. The eyes need to rest immediately after the LASIK surgery. Even if you have the doctor’s permission, you must arrange for some other mode of transportation to get back home. Driving on your own will expose you to harsh traffic lights and the reflection of light will put stress on your eyes, causing further damage to the operated section.
Avoid watching television or computer
Activities like watching television, using the laptop, reading, etc., which requires eye involvement should be avoided as they could seriously strain the eyes. This could give rise to post-surgery complications. Give the eyes rest for at least 24 hours after the operation.
Avoid sports
Getting involved with contact sport is an absolute no-no since it could physically harm the eye. It is advised that you do not participate even in non-contact sports since your eyes will not be fully adjusted to vision and depth perception. This could mean that you risk a person or object hitting you in the eye by accident. This will create complications in your LASIK recovery. Even water sports should be avoided for a month after the treatment.
Do not rub your eyes
The eyes will be highly tender post-surgery and you might experience itching and burning. The natural tendency would be to rub the eyes but you should refrain from doing so as rubbing can dislodge the corneal flap. This will raise new complications. Wear protective eye gear before sleeping so that you don’t rub your eyes in your sleep. If the pain increases and becomes unbearable, consult your doctor.
Always wear dark sunglasses when you step outdoors
Eyes will be extremely sensitive post-surgery. Stepping without sunglasses in the sun will cause extreme irritation. You can even wear them indoors if the sunlight coming through the windows bothers you in any way. Use the darkest sunglasses with full UVA and UVB protection. They will even protect your eyes from dust and other particles from entering the eyes.
Avoid cosmetics
Any kind of eye and facial make up must be strictly avoided. The chemicals and alcohol present in cosmetics will cause irritation to the eye. Any kind of reaction between the cosmetics and the eye can even impair your vision. Avoid hair care and spraying cosmetic products like perfumes for at least two weeks after the surgery.
Stay away from smoke and dust
Smoke, dust particles and other microscopic particulates carried by the wind may cause irritation to your eyes and increase the burning sensation and itchiness. This could further cause you to rub your eyes and harm them. Try staying indoors for the first few days after the surgery.
Switch showers with baths
Showers may lead to soap, shampoo or even water entering your eyes which can irritate them. It may even lead to infections and cause complications. Avoid standing under the shower for a few days after the surgery and opt for baths instead. Do not rub your face vigorously with a towel or scrub your face. Avoid washing your hair for at least a day or two after the surgery.
Stay away from alcohol
Doctors advise patients from staying away from alcohol for a few days after the surgery as they might not be alert or mindful while drinking and risk rubbing the eyes or harming the eyes in any other way. Further, the alcohol in the system slows down the healing process.
Apart from these, it is extremely important that you follow the doctor’s instructions. Visit him regularly and take the medication diligently. Do not put your eyes at risk at any cost! Follow the Lasik surgery post operative care discussed above as the complications may even cause you to lose your vision.
Aaron Barriga is the online marketing manager for Insight Vision Center. With a knack for understanding medical procedures, and an interest in eye and vision health, Aaron loves to share what he knows and what he learns. He blogs to inform readers about the latest eye care technology and other topics related to eye care, especially LASIK. Aaron loves collecting coasters from the different bars and restaurants he visits during his travels.