Template only — not medical advice. Always review with a licensed healthcare professional before distributing.
Want to customize this handout for your clinic?
Sign in free to edit, add your clinic branding, and save your own version.
Caring for Eyes After LASIK Refractive Surgery Procedure Post-Procedure Care
Summary
Congratulations on your recent LASIK surgery! This guide will help you take care of your eyes so they heal quickly and you achieve the best possible vision. It's important to follow these instructions closely to protect your eyes and ensure successful results. Let's get started!
What Is This & Why It Matters
LASIK is a laser surgery that reshapes the cornea, which is the clear front part of your eye, to improve vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. After this procedure, your eyes need time to heal and adjust. Proper care is crucial to prevent any complications and to maximize your vision improvement.
What You Should Do
- Use the lubricating eye drops as recommended by your doctor to keep your eyes moist.
- Wear protective eyewear or sunglasses outdoors to shield your eyes from dust and bright light.
- Rest your eyes by taking frequent breaks from screens such as phones, computers, and TVs.
- Attend all follow-up appointments at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month post-surgery as directed.
- Keep your eyes clean by gently washing around them with a clean, damp cloth.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Sleep with the protective eye shields provided by your doctor for the first few nights.
- Follow any additional instructions given by your doctor specifically for you.
What You Should NOT Do
- Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes, even if they feel itchy or dry.
- Do not use makeup around the eyes for at least one week after surgery.
- Refrain from swimming in pools or hot tubs until your doctor gives the okay.
- Avoid driving until you are cleared by your doctor during a follow-up visit.
- Steer clear of dusty or smoky environments that could irritate your eyes.
Symptoms: Normal vs Warning Signs
Normal (Don't Worry)
- Mild dryness or irritation in the eyes is common.
- Seeing halos or glare around lights during nighttime driving initially is expected.
- Your vision may fluctuate slightly as healing progresses.
- Experiencing some sensitivity to light is normal.
Call Your Doctor If...
- Severe pain in one or both eyes that doesn't go away with over-the-counter pain relief.
- Vision suddenly becomes blurry or worsens significantly instead of improving.
- Redness in the eye that increases instead of going away over time.
- Discharge from the eye that appears yellow or green in color.
- Swelling around the eye that doesn't reduce after a few days of surgery.
- Seeing flashes of light or floating spots that weren't there before.
FAQ
How long will it take for my vision to improve?
Many patients notice an improvement within a few days, but full clarity can take a few weeks.
Can I wear my old glasses after LASIK?
You might not need them anymore! Check with your doctor for an updated prescription if needed.
When can I start exercising again?
Light exercise can usually resume after a week, but avoid contact sports until approved by your doctor.
Is it normal to have dry eyes after LASIK?
Yes, it's common. Use lubricating drops as directed to relieve dryness.
How should I clean around my eyes?
Gently use a clean damp cloth around the outside of the eye without touching it directly.
What should I do if I accidentally rub my eye?
If it happens once, don't worry too much. Just avoid doing it again and monitor for any discomfort.