At Atlantic Laser Vision Center, we are proud to provide patients in and around Monmouth County with all the information that they need with regard to eye health and vision correction. Patient education is an important part of patient satisfaction, which is why we always answer questions and address concerns about procedures and conditions.

We routinely provide patients with answers to questions about LASIK surgery. Right now, we want to look at the issue of pain and discomfort after LASIK and what can be done to offer pain relief.

Why is pain common after LASIK?

During LASIK surgery, a flap is created in the topmost layer of the cornea. When this is created, the nerves of the eyes are affected. The nerves will heal, but your body will register soreness and discomfort since the tissue of the eye has been altered through the procedure. In addition, regular tear production and eye moisture will be reduced by the surgery until the nerves heal.

How bad is the pain after LASIK and what is it like?

The pain after LASIK is not typically bad, though patients may sense irritation and increased sensitivity to light as they recover. A number of patients say that they notice a gritty or grainy feeling within their eyes after LASIK, which is a common response as well.

How long will the pain after LASIK last?

In general, the most significant sensations of pain after LASIK surgery will only last for a couple of hours after the LASIK surgery has been performed. After the first hours of surgery, pain or soreness should simply feel like itchiness or irritation and should be quite tolerable overall.

Rest Your Eyes Early On to Prevent Eyestrain

In the first 24 hours after LASIK, you should avoid all activities that may result in eyestrain or eye pain. This means that you should not read, watch TV, or use your computer or smart phone. Instead, rest your eyes. It’s often ideal for patients to sleep after their LASIK surgery has been performed, which goes a long way toward reducing pain and discomfort.

Wear Your LASIK Goggles as Directed

LASIK goggles are provided to patients in order to prevent incidental and accidental contact with the eyes during healing. The LASIK goggles don’t reduce pain per se, but they do help prevent actions that may result in eye pain after LASIK (e.g., rubbing your eyes, objects making contact with your eyes). Wear them as directed by your LASIK surgeon.

Beware the Sun: Sunglasses and a Hat with a Brim When Outdoors

Your eyes will be very sensitive to light in the first days after LASIK surgery. In order to reduce the amount of irritation you experience outdoors and in bright light, be sure to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses and a hat with a brim. These will both provide shade and improve comfort.

Carry Liquid Tears with You in Case of Dry Eye

Dry eye is a common issue that LASIK patients experience in the weeks and months after their procedure. Surgeons advise patients to carry liquid tears at all times for several months. This will allow patients to address sudden attacks of dry eye as they arise, providing instant relief.

Attend All Follow-Up Visits with Your LASIK Surgeon

Patients should attend all follow-up visits with their LASIK surgeon as they are scheduled. This will allow them to have their healing process evaluated and to ask questions about the recovery process.

Learn More About Healing After LASIK Surgery

If you would like to learn more about LASIK and how it can enhance your vision and overall wellness, be sure to contact our laser vision correction and eye care center today. The entire team here at Atlantic Laser Vision Center will work closely with you to ensure the best vision possible.