What should I avoid after LASIK?
LASIK is a refractive surgery that uses laser technology to correct imperfections in your cornea. This procedure works wonders for improving vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or presbyopia. If you have suffered from any of these refractive errors, you may be considering LASIK. You may also be wondering what to expect after surgery - specifically, what can't you do after LASIK eye surgery in Delhi?
During the operation, an experienced LASIK surgeon in Gurgaon uses a laser to create a thin flap in the cornea. They pull it back and vaporize the tissue to reshape the surface of the cornea microscopically. After reshaping the cornea, the surgeon replaces the flap in its original location, where it will heal naturally. Although LASIK is a quick and relatively painless procedure that requires little downtime, patients must take care to make the healing process as fast and smooth as possible.
After LASIK surgery, you will need a day to rest before resuming your regular activities. After that, it's time to explore your brand new vision! Our patients are thrilled to wake up the day after the procedure with sharp and clear vision.
Let's take a look below at some of the things you should avoid after LASIK surgery:
Swimming
For at least two weeks after the Lasik surgery, you should avoid pools, hot tubs, lakes, and other bodies of water. After two weeks, we recommend wearing goggles or keeping your eyes closed underwater if you decide to go swimming. If water gets into your eyes before your cornea has healed properly, it can lead to irritation, dry eyes, and even infection.
Most importantly, you should consult your eye surgeon before entering the water for swimming. An experienced surgeon will monitor your healing process and let you know when it's good to get back in the water.
Exercise and sports
You may be excited to run or hit the basketball court without glasses after LASIK surgery, but it's important to let your eyes heal before engaging in strenuous activities. If you are involved in contact sports or hard training, you should take a break of about one month. Not only can exercise and sports strain the eyes, but sweat can also irritate them.
Applying makeup
You will want to refrain from wearing makeup for at least one week after LASIK surgery. Especially avoid eye products like eye shadow and eyeliner. Different types of eye makeup and tools can be loaded with bacteria that can cause serious infections. Until your eyes have had a chance to heal, it's best to go completely natural.
In addition to avoiding makeup immediately, you may want to consider replacing the makeup you use after your LASIK procedure. Not only does old makeup harbor bacteria, but it can also cause you to rub your eyes, which could damage the cornea and lead to poor vision—again. This is the perfect opportunity to get a new look without glasses!
Phone and computer screens
We know that looking at the computer, smartphone, and television can be a big part of everyday life, but after LASIK, you'll want to minimize screen time to 24-48 hours. Screens emit different wavelengths of light, and prolonged viewing can damage even the healthiest of eyes. If you're in the process of healing from LASIK, it's essential to limit your exposure to screens for the first few days.
Exposure to UV radiation
Protecting your eyes from the sun was important before LASIK, but it is even more important after the procedure. When you head outside – even on a cloudy day – you should equip yourself with a pair of high-quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection. This will indeed protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and protect them from healing.
Recovery time after LASIK surgery
Recovery time after Lasik surgery depends on your prescribed surgery and how your body reacts to it. Everyone is different, but your eyes should heal quickly. Many patients continue their daily routine the next day. Of course, this depends on your routine, but you should notice a difference in your vision almost immediately. For a speedy recovery, make sure you actively listen to your doctor's recommendations and ask questions if you're not sure.
What to Avoid After LASIK
Keep your eyes away from dust, pollen, or other airborne particles. If you accidentally get something in your eyes, rinse your eyes with artificial tears. This method allows you to remove anything from your eyes without rubbing them.
Do not wash your hair for several days after LASIK. When showering, avoid letting the stream of water hit you directly in the face. Instead, face the opposite direction.
Do not remove the protective eye shield on the first day. You can end up dislocating the corneal flap, damaging the eye, and risking infection.
Try to keep water out of your eyes for two weeks. You should only stay prescription eye drops and artificial tears in your eyes.
Do not use tap water to clean your eyes. Tap water is not sterile.
Avoid swimming for three weeks. Water in pools, hot tubs, and the ocean contains large amounts of bacteria that you should avoid at all costs.
Do not use eye makeup for one month after surgery. When you return to wearing makeup, gently remove it in a downward motion for two weeks.
For three days, limit the time you spend looking at computer screens. Avoid areas with smoke. It will help if you protect your eyes from harmful contaminants.
