There are many preoperative and postoperative do's and don'ts that a prospective laser eye treatment patient should be aware of. These are important to ensure a successful operation overall and also for a fast and smooth postoperative recovery process.
First and foremost, a patient should wear a protective shield to cover the eyes immediately after laser eye treatment, as advised by their surgeon. A patient should also close their eyes, resting and relaxing as much as possible immediately after the surgery is performed. It is even recommended that a patient go to sleep when he or she gets home after surgery. The patient will notice a significant vision improvement after waking up from sleep.
After laser eye treatment it is also advisable to wear sunglasses as much as possible, in rain or shine. This is to help protect the eyes from harmful elements such as sunlight, dust, and harmful ultraviolet rays. It is best to keep the sunglasses on for at least 2 weeks after surgery.
It is also advisable for a postoperative laser eye treatment patient to avoid taking part in contact sports for at least one month. The eyes need time to adjust and a person's sense of perception may still be off balance. Avoid contact sports that could cause injury to the eyes like basketball, football and other high-risk activities.
It is recommended for women who undergo laser eye treatment to avoid wearing makeup immediately after surgery. Cosmetics can cause irritation to the eyes, which in turn could lead to infection. Lotions, which are designed for sensitive skin, can be applied if needed but stay away from cosmetics for between 2-3 weeks after surgery.
Patients are strongly advised against rubbing their eyes. Any itchiness can be managed with medicated eye drops, which can also help in the healing process of the eyes. Use these drops as directed even if your eye are feeling fine and avoid rubbing the eyes at all costs.
Activities that may over strain the eyes such as watching television, driving, using the computer are best avoided. Instead, try to relax the eyes as much as possible. Do not shower after a laser eye surgery. Instead, take a bath but be very careful not to get soap into the eyes. Also, avoid hot tubs and saunas for about eight weeks after surgery.
A patient should make follow-ups with their eye surgeon after treatment, who will offer advice on good eye-care practice. All of which contribute to the overall recovery of a patient after laser eye treatment
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Mathew Dawson is the author of Laser Eye Treatment Guide with more detailed postoperative recovery advice, what to consider when selecting a laser eye clinic and the different types of laser eye treatment available.
