LASIK Eye Surgery Recovery- Timeline, Diet, & Lifestyle Changes

Recovery Timeline After Vision Correction Surgery

The visual recovery after LASIK or any other vision correction surgery is quick. However, the complete recovery will take longer until the cornea heals completely. 

• Immediately After Surgery: The patient will be taken to a recovery area where his/her eyes will be checked. The doctor will prescribe eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. The patient may experience some discomfort, burning, or itching sensation in the eyes, but it will subside within a few hours after resting the eyes.
• Next Day: The patient will have a follow-up appointment with the eye doctor to check the vision and eye pressure. The patient may still experience minor discomfort, blurry vision, dry eyes, or other side effects, but this should improve over the next few days.
• First Week: The vision will improve, and the patient will be able to see clearly as the eyes heal. Night vision may be compromised for some time after surgery. Thus, the patient is advised to avoid house chores and driving. The patient needs to take other precautions as advised by the doctor. 
• First Month: The residual side effects of LASIK surgery will improve within a month. Some patients may still experience dryness or light sensitivity at this point. If so, the doctor may advise to continue using the prescribed eye drops. Activities that can injure or strain the eyes should still be avoided. 
• Three to Six Months: The corneal flap will be completely healed within 3 to 6 months, and the vision will stabilize. 

It’s important to note that every person’s recovery timeline may vary, and some people may experience complications or side effects after LASIK surgery. If any signs of infections, such as excessive tearing, pain, redness, etc., appears, contact the doctor right away. 

Lifestyle Changes Recommended After LASIK

To get long-lasting results and prevent the vision from regressing after LASIK surgery, it’s imperative for the patient to make certain lifestyle changes. These changes include: 

• Avoid rubbing or poking the eyes until the corneal flap heals completely. Rubbing or poking can dislodge the flap and lead to further complications. 
• Use the prescribed eye drops as many times as required to prevent post-surgery complications. This includes using antibiotic drops, steroid drops, and artificial tears. 
• Protect eyes from injury after the surgery. Wear protective eyewear when engaging in activities that could cause trauma to your eyes, such as sports or working with power tools.
• Keep the eyes lubricated using artificial tears, as dryness can increase the risk of corneal abrasion, inflammation, and other side effects. 
• Wear sunglasses to protect the eyes from UV rays. Direct contact with sunlight after the surgery can damage the eyes. 
• Attend the follow-up appointment as frequently as suggested by the doctor. Usually, patients require two follow-ups in the first month. Another follow-up will be required in the 2nd and 3rd months. 
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle to promote good eye health. Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, exercise regularly, get plenty of rest, and avoid smoking.