LASIK Post-Operative Instructions
Part of the reason why Dr. Goosey is one of America’s top LASIK surgeons, is that he takes time to ensure every patient feels informed, comfortable, and cared for throughout the entire process. Dr. Goosey personally sees all his LASIK patients before, during, and after the surgery, ensuring comprehensive care from start to finish.
The information below will help you understand what to expect after your LASIK surgery, how to care for your eyes during the healing process, and how to achieve the best possible results. The beauty of LASIK surgery, combined with the innovative and advanced laser technology that Dr. Goosey uses, is that it’s highly effective, recovery is short, and complications are extremely rare.
As with any outpatient procedure, patients play an important role in their own recovery. It’s crucial to read all of the provided information, ask questions, and follow all the post-operative instructions carefully.
5 Things You Need to Know After LASIK Surgery
1. Expect Discomfort as the Anesthetic Wears Off (Within 30 minutes)
After about 30 minutes, the anesthetic drops used in the LASIK procedure will begin to wear off, and you may start to feel some discomfort. Common symptoms during the first two hours include stinging or watering of the eyes.
2. Use the Following Eye Drops- 1 Drop Each and Wait 1 Minute Between Drops
- VIGAMOX (antibiotic) – 4 times daily for 5 days then discontinue
- LOTEMAX – use 4 times daily for 7 days and then 2 times daily for another 7 days then discontinue.
- SYSTANE (or any comparable lubricant) – use as needed for lubrication for 4-6 weeks.
3. Normal Post-Operative Symptoms:
After LASIK surgery, it’s normal to experience the following:
- Watery eyes and nose
- Light sensitivity
- Redness and swelling of the eye
- A sandy feeling (like your contacts dried out)
- Blurry vision
- Fluctuation in vision
- It is rarely necessary to take medication for these symptoms, but should it be needed, Tylenol, Advil or any non-aspirin analgesic can be taken.
- Wrap-around sunglasses are helpful in soothing discomfort and shielding your eyes in bright lights.
While it is rare to need medication for these symptoms, over-the-counter options like Tylenol, Advil or any non-aspirin pain relievers may help. Wearing wrap-around sunglasses can also provide relief from discomfort and shielding your eyes from bright lights.
4. Follow-Up Appointment with Dr. Goosey – Day After Surgery(Mandatory)
You are required to see Dr. Goosey the day after your surgery for a follow-up. There will be two additional follow-up appointments, but they will be scheduled after this initial post-op visit.
5. Post-Operative Do’s and Don’ts:
- Showering and bathing: You may shower or take a tub bath, but avoid getting anything in the operated eye.
- Rest: Rest and sleep are your best friends the first day or two.
- Eye shield: Wear your eye shield for the first day and night, and then only while you sleep for the next 5 days.
- Water activities: Avoid all water sports and activities (hot tubs, whirlpools, swimming, etc.) for 2 weeks post-operatively.
- Scuba diving: Avoid scuba diving for 4 weeks.