What Happens After LASIK Surgery?

- Expect to rest with the eyes closed as much as possible for the rest of the day after surgery.
- You will have to use the eye medications that are provided in your postoperative kit, in order to aid in healing and to prevent infection or swelling.
- Lubricating drops will need to be used frequently, to keep the operated eye(s) as moist as possible. This aids in recovery.
- When the eye is open, be sure to blink completely, gently touching upper and lower lids. Be sure not to squeeze!
- Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes; during sleep either the shields or goggles will be required for eye protection.
- Expect your eyes to feel very dry and gritty, especially for the first three months after surgery. The dryness may cause some variability in the vision, as well as scratchiness, burning or discomfort of the eyes. Certain activities, such as reading or computer use, can increase dryness and will require more frequent use of lubricating eyedrops.
- Vision may be blurry for up to several days after LASIK and a few weeks after PRK so don’t be discouraged if the vision isn’t clear. Your vision may change in the first few weeks after surgery.
- The first eye examination after LASIK is one hour after surgery; all LASIK and PRK patients are also seen the morning after surgery. Patients are required not to drive until vision is confirmed to be satisfactory for driving.