Post-Operative Care
Post-operative examinations are
required at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month and 3 months from
the surgery date for LASIK, and 4 days, 2 weeks, 2 months
for LASEK with additional appointments at 6 months for
both procedures. These appointments are important because
they help us to evaluate the healing process of your
eyes and to guard against infection. The average post-operative
appointment in our clinic takes approximately 15 minutes.
Post-Operative Instructions (instructions
will vary somewhat depending whether you have LASEK
or LASIK
After the surgery, ensure your
eyes are closed for the first two hours. It is preferred
that you lie down, relax, and close your eyes during
this period. Watching television, reading or any type
of computer work is to be avoided for the first 24 hours.
Your eyes need to remain relaxed, and avoiding these
types of activities will aid in preventing any unnecessary
complications.
It is very important not to rub
your eyes, as this will cause problems after the surgery.
For LASIK, wear the plastic eye shields every night
for the first 7 nights following surgery. Shields are
not necessary after LASEK. The purpose of the eye shields
is to protect your eyes while you sleep so that you
do not instinctively rub them.
A mild burning sensation will be
experienced 2-4 hours after the surgery as the eye sedative
applied during surgery wears off. This will be similar
to if you were wearing a dirty or itchy contact lens.
Panadol, Vioxx or Ibuprofen will help reduce the discomfort.
An additional comort drop will be provided to numb the
eye during the first 72 hours.
Sunglasses will be provided to
wear for the first 24 hours after the surgery. It is
important to wear the sunglasses outside rain or shine.
Try to take baths and not showers
for the first 48 hours following surgery. When you do
have showers, do not allow the shower to spray directly
on your face for at least the first week. This will
prevent any possible injuries to your eyes. Use a face
cloth to wash your face during this time, paying extra
attention to not rub your eyes. Your face may be washed
as normal following the first week.
Avoid any eye makeup for 1 week.
This includes mascara, eye shadow, eye liner or any
other type of makeup around the eyes. Lotions and lipsticks
are allowed to be worn.
Avoid any smoky or dusty environments
for 1 week. These environments will irritate the eyes.
If you are exposed to these types of environments, remember
to apply additional lubrication with the artificial
tears.
Avoid any alcohol consumption for
the first 48 hours following the surgery. Alcohol increases
our eye dryness and will restrict the healing process.
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