One of the most common questions we get about Lasik eye surgery is what recovery is like. Is it uncomfortable? How long will it take to recover?
This can be a difficult question to answer because everyone is different and our vision correction procedures are all custom to meet each patient’s unique needs. However, recent advances in laser technology, paired with our experienced surgeon usually result in shorter-than-expected recovery times. Some people are even able to go back to work shortly after the surgery! Here is what you can expect after having Lasik surgery at BoydVision.
Immediately After Lasik
Your custom Lasik procedure lasts only a few minutes for each eye. Once completed, you will spend some time at the clinic to recover before heading home. We will provide plastic shields to wear over your eyes while sleeping for the first week to prevent eye-rubbing. We encourage you to get some rest and take it easy as our bodies perform most of its recovery during sleep.
First Week After Lasik
Expect to take the next day off from work after Lasik. By this time many of our patients are already able to see with 20/20 vision. Don’t worry if you can’t though, as people recover at different rates! It is important to follow Dr. Boyd’s specific recovery instructions, but for the first week we usually recommend:
- Wearing sunglasses, they can even help indoors!
- Not wearing make-up.
- Avoiding dusty or dirty rooms. We want to keep your eyes as clean as possible to avoid any risk of infection.
- Washing your hands frequently and avoid rubbing your eyes.
- Taking it easy. Don’t perform any strenuous activities including swimming, contact sports, weightlifting, etc. You just had surgery, give your body a chance to recover.
- Taking eye drops to keep them moisturized.
You should be able to drive again and return to work after your vision has stabilized, generally after 1 or 2 days.
Full Recovery After Lasik
You can return to your daily activities within a few weeks after surgery. Continue taking eye drops if you experience dry eye syndrome. It is usually mild, lasting only 1-2 months. Your vision may fluctuate, and your eyes may feel gritty during this time as well, don’t worry as this is all a part of the healing process. By the 6-month mark, your eyes will be fully healed with a permanent improvement to your vision.
Laser eye surgery is one of the most successful and safest procedures available. Less than 1% of all operations have any complications, most of which can be resolved through clinical management. With so little to risk and so much to gain, why not book a Lasik procedure today?