LASIK Recovery

LASIK surgery is generally straightforward, and undergoing this vision correction procedure can help you see much clearer than you ever have before. That said, sometimes patients wonder just what is in store for them as they recover from LASIK. The team here at our Omaha laser eye center would like to go over some of the basics of LASIK recovery right now so you understand what to expect. We will be more than happy to go over these matters in greater detail during your visit.

Prior to LASIK Surgery

There are a few things that we will ask patients to do before undergoing LASIK surgery in order to ensure proper healing. First, we will ask that patients not wear contacts for a few weeks prior to LASIK. This helps ensure that the cornea is naturally shaped on the day of the LASIK procedure. Patients are also asked to refrain from drinking and smoking in the lead-up to surgery since both can affect the healing process.

On the actual day of the surgery, we ask that patients wear loose and comfortable clothing, not wear any makeup around the eyes, and not use any lotions or moisturizers around the eyes. Transportation to and from our practice is required since we cannot recommend patients operate vehicles after LASIK has been performed.

About the LASIK Procedure

During the actual LASIK procedure, our ophthalmologists serving Lincoln and Omaha will reshape the cornea using a safe surgical laser. The first step will be crating a flap in the topmost layer of the cornea (the epithelium) in order to access the cornea. Numbing eye drops are used so patients do not feel a thing. The laser is then used to adjust the contour of the eye. The process takes about 10-15 minutes per eye.

The First Days After LASIK Surgery

In the first day or two after custom LASIK surgery, it is very important that patients rest their eyes. They should not engage in any activities that may cause eye strain or eye fatigue, such as reading, using the computer, watching TV, watching movies, and so on. Lots of rest is suggested, in a comfortable position and with your eyes closed.

Patients should refrain from strenuous physical activities for the first few days, and should wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect the eyes. Rubbing the eyes is strictly prohibited as this may have adverse affects on healing, especially where the corneal flap is concerns. Patients should take baths instead of showers so that water does not get into the eyes.

If you experience any undue pain or discomfort during these first few days after LASIK surgery, do not hesitate to contact our practice as soon as possible.

Recovery for the First Week

Generally in the first week, you will want to refrain from wearing eye make-up and to avoid rubbing or scratching your eyes. Some irritation is normal, and in those cases you will be asked to use eye drops to help keep your eyes moist. You will return to our Omaha Intralase LASIK center for a follow-up visit within a week so that we can ensure you are healing well.

Recovery for the Next Few Weeks

As you continue to recovery from LASIK, you will notice greater vision clarity and reduced irritations of the eyes. Some patients will experience dry eye, starbursts, haloes, and issues with night vision, sometimes for a few weeks after surgery. As you heal, however, all of these side effects will generally subside.

Schedule a Consultation for Laser Vision Correction Surgery

If you would like to learn more about LASIK surgery and how it can help you see clearly without the aid of corrective lenses, contact our eye care centers in Lincoln and Omaha, NE today. Our entire team looks forward to your visit and discussing these matters with you in greater detail.