LASIK surgery has transformed the lives of countless individuals by providing clearer vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, patients often have numerous questions regarding post-operative care. Here, we address the most frequently asked questions to help you navigate the recovery process smoothly.
Diet Post-LASIK: Are There Any Restrictions?
One common question patients ask is about dietary restrictions after LASIK surgery. Fortunately, there are no special dietary restrictions; you can continue to eat normally as per your routine. A balanced diet helps in overall healing and maintaining good eye health. Dr. Seema Behl, a leading phaco and LASIK surgeon in Mumbai, assures patients that proper nutrition supports optimal recovery.
How to Use Eye Drops Properly
Proper use of eye drops is crucial for recovery:
Application Method: To use eye drops, avoid touching the upper eyelid. Instead, pull down the lower lid to create a pocket and place one drop in it. If unsure, you can add another drop and keep your eyes closed for one minute.
Avoid Upper Eyelid Contact: Since the laser treatment is done on the cornea, it’s essential to avoid touching or rubbing the upper portion of the eye.
Duration: Typically, prescribed drops should be used for 2 to 4 weeks after LASIK. Drops for dryness, however, should be used for at least 3 months. The first week is the most intensive period for using the drops. Dr. Seema Behl emphasizes the importance of following the prescribed regimen to ensure successful healing.
Protective Glasses: How Long Should They Be Worn?
Wearing protective glasses is recommended to shield your eyes from potential injury:
Indoors: Wear them for 2-3 days indoors, especially if there are risks of accidental trauma.
Outdoors: When outside, wear protective glasses or UV-protected sunglasses to protect against dust, pollution, and trauma.
Night Shield: Patients are also given a shield to protect their eyes at night, which should be worn for at least 2-3 days while sleeping. According toDr Seema Behl, these precautions are essential to protect the eyes during the critical initial recovery period.
Head Bath: When Is It Safe?
Taking a head bath requires caution post-LASIK:
Regular Bath: You can take a regular bath the next day but clean your face with a wet towel and sponge your hair carefully.
Head Bath: Avoid head baths for at least one week. When you do take one, ensure your eyes are closed and avoid splashing water directly into your eyes for at least one to one and a quarter months.Dr Seema Behl advises extra caution to prevent any water from irritating the eyes during the recovery phase.
Swimming and Gym Activities: When to Resume?
Swimming: Avoid swimming for 4 to 6 weeks due to higher risks of infection or allergies from public pools or the sea.
Gym: Light activities like cycling, jogging, and walking can be resumed from the third or fourth day. For gym workouts, wait for one week; for heavy exercises, wait for 2-3 weeks. Dr Seema Behl recommends gradually resuming physical activities to ensure your eyes heal properly.
Eye Makeup for Women: Precautions
Women should be cautious with eye makeup post-LASIK:
Avoid Makeup: Refrain from wearing eye makeup for at least two weeks.
Careful Application: When resuming makeup, apply and remove it carefully without rubbing your eyes.Dr Seema Behl suggests avoiding any potential irritants that could affect the healing process.
Resuming Sports and Driving
Sports: Normal sports can be resumed after 2-3 weeks. Contact sports or adventure sports that risk eye injury should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.
Driving: Driving can be resumed after one week, provided you are comfortable and not experiencing excessive glare or other issues.Dr Seema Behl advises assessing your comfort level and vision clarity before resuming driving.
Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
The most crucial advice post-LASIK is to avoid rubbing your eyes for at least one to one and a quarter months. Rubbing can cause wrinkles or displacement of the flap, which is critical to avoid for proper healing.Dr Seema Behl emphasizes the importance of this precaution to prevent any complications.
Emotional Tears: Impact on LASIK
If you cry due to emotional reasons after LASIK, it does not affect the surgery results. However, it’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes during this time. Dr Seema Behl reassures patients that normal emotional responses will not interfere with their recovery.
If you have any more questions or need further guidance on post-LASIK care, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Seema Behl, a renowned phaco and LASIK surgeon from Mumbai. Dr. Bahl and her team are dedicated to ensuring your recovery is smooth and your vision is better than ever.
Schedule a follow-up appointment or reach out to Dr. Seema Behl for personalized advice on your LASIK recovery. Visit our website or call us at 93218 42424 today!