Since its inception, LASIK has proven to be one of the safest and most dependable surgical procedures in all of medicine. In recent years, with advances in both LASIK techniques and technologies, the procedure has become even safer, with higher rates of success and patient satisfaction and shorter, more comfortable healing periods. Nevertheless, patients should understand that LASIK is a serious surgical procedure that does involve a period of recovery – and that their active participation in their recovery can make a profound difference in how quickly they heal and achieve the optimal results from their surgeries.

At Atlantic Laser Center in Monmouth County, LASIK recovery tips are discussed with patients during their initial consultations with Dr. Daniel Goldberg. Dr. Goldberg is one of the pioneers of LASIK surgery in the United States and, as such, understands the procedure to a degree that is rare even among the most accomplished eye surgeons. He believes that it is his duty to pass his knowledge on to his patients so that they can make the most educated decisions possible regarding their eye care and know exactly what to expect before, during, and after their LASIK surgeries.

Tips for the LASIK Recovery Period

The following are just some of the tips that Dr. Goldberg provides to his patients on how to make the LASIK recovery period more comfortable and efficient:

  • Get plenty of rest: Particularly during the first day or two after surgery, rest is important. This will give your eyes an opportunity to heal. Avoid watching television or using a computer as much as possible during this time.
  • Wear your LASIK eye shield while sleeping: The most common post-surgical complications associated with LASIK involve the corneal flap becoming dislodged. By wearing your LASIK eye shield while you are sleeping, you help to prevent the accidental, unconscious rubbing and scratching of your eyes that can lead to flap displacement.
  • If you smoke, quit smoking: At least during your recovery period, you will want to give up smoking. Smoking interferes with the healing process in general and can exacerbate such common LASIK side effects as dry eye syndrome.
  • Avoid activities that could result in trauma to the eyes: Again, anything that could cause the corneal flap to become dislodged should be avoided, including contact sports and other activities that could result in trauma to the eyes.
  • Take baths instead of showers: For the first couple of weeks after surgery, you should avoid getting direct streams of water in your eyes. Therefore, it is better to take baths rather than showers.
  • Take all medication exactly as recommended: While rare, infection is a possibility with all surgical procedures. Be sure to take all medications, including antibiotics, exactly as advised to avoid post-surgical complications.
  • Avoid bright light: If you must go outdoors on a sunny day during the first few days after your surgery, be sure to wear sunglasses with UV protection.

Learn More about LASIK Recovery

To learn more about recovering from LASIK surgery, we encourage you to contact Atlantic Laser Center today.