LASIK is a laser-assisted vision correction procedure that treats astigmatism, farsightedness, and nearsightedness. About 90 percent of LASIK patients, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, can see without eyeglasses or contact lenses after surgery. 

The recovery period for the procedure is pretty quick. In most cases, patients need just one or two days of recovery before they resume their normal activities. Complete healing, however, can occur over a few months before you achieve your final visual outcome. However, you can do certain things to expedite your healing process. 

Recovery After LASIK Eye Surgery

One of the most important aspects is the preoperative evaluation. You need to work with an eye doctor who will sit down with you, examine your eyes, and examine your medical history beforehand. 

LASIK surgery reshapes your corneal tissue; therefore, your ophthalmologist should take a 3D or corneal topography of your eye. A comprehensive eye examination will determine whether you are a good candidate for this type of eye surgery. If not, your eye doctor will recommend an alternative option. Good candidates often recover faster. Other tips for fast recovery include:

Aftercare Timeline

About a month after the procedure, you will need to be extremely careful of your eyes. If possible, take at least two days off work after your surgery. This will save you from experiencing various forms of strain that could affect your healing process. 

Six to 24 Hours After Surgery 

In the first six hours after surgery, you should avoid bright lights and keep your eyes closed most of the time. Avoid straining your eyes during the first 24 hours. This means limiting your reading or use of the smartphone, television, computer, and game console. You should also avoid strenuous activity and getting non-sterile water, chemical products, or soap in your eyes. 

Two Weeks After Surgery 

After two or three days, you can start reading or using your digital devices. You should do this lightly at first before working up to your normal use as you continue to feel more comfortable. If you are healing well after the first two weeks, you can start returning to your pre-surgery routine. However, you still need to take steps to minimize the risks of eye irritation and infection.

One Month After Surgery 

Assuming your follow-up exams are positive after one month of healing, you can engage in activities such as aerobics, tennis, snowboarding, swimming, and more. However, if you lift weights to keep fit, you need to understand that the strain of lifting heavy objects can harm your healing process. 

Other Tips for Fast Recovery After LASIK Surgery 

• Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes.
   

• Take a bath instead of a shower to prevent water or soap from entering your eyes.
   

• Use the prescribed eye drops to expedite the healing process and achieve the best results.
   

• Wear eye protection for at least two weeks to prevent injury.
   

• Rest as much as you can.

To learn more about LASIK eye surgery, visit Coastal Vision at our offices in Orange, Norco, Long Beach, or Irvine, California. You can also call (888) 501-4496 today to schedule an appointment.