Things to Avoid Right After LASIK Eye Surgery
- Posted on: Nov 26 2019
Nearly all LASIK patients can agree that the surgery is quick and relatively painless. The procedure is over before some patients even realize it started!
However, like any surgery, there are certain things you need to avoid right afterward in order to reduce your risk of developing complications. Read on as Dr. Gregory Pamel outlines some of the most important things to avoid right after LASIK.
Rubbing Your Eyes
Right after LASIK surgery, you want to ensure that the surface of your eye, including the corneal flap, heals quickly and properly. Rubbing, pressing or putting pressure on your eyes can disrupt the natural healing process and possibly lead to complications. Your hands may also carry germs that get into your eyes and cause an infection.
But what happens if you feel as though an eyelash or a speck of dust is caught in your eyes? Instead of rubbing your eyes, use artificial tears to easily flush out any dust or debris.
Getting Your Eyes Wet
Speaking of flushing out your eyes, the only thing that should come in contact with your eyes are prescription eye drops and artificial tears. You must avoid getting water in your eyes, even when showering. Water can carry organisms that lead to an eye infection. When showering, turn away from the stream of water so that it does not hit you directly in the face.
Applying Eye Makeup
Refrain from applying eye makeup or creams around your eyes right after LASIK surgery, as these products can irritate your healing eyes.
Swimming
After LASIK, Dr. Pamel will ask you to avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, rivers, streams or oceans for approximately a week. These sources of water can harbor bacteria that could get into your eyes and cause infection.
Strenuous Exercise
Light workouts are fine after LASIK, but avoid any strenuous exercise or activity that could make you perspire enough that you get sweat in your eyes. Also avoid any activity where you are at risk of getting hit in the eyes, which would complicate your recovery.
Smoky or Dusty Environments
Being in smoky or dusty environments can irritate your eyes and make you want to rub them. Do your best to avoid indoor or outdoor areas where there is a lot of dust, dirt or smoke.
Contact Our NYC LASIK Surgeon Today
Although these restrictions may require you to deviate from your normal routine, rest assured that LASIK recovery is generally pretty quick. Most patients are able to resume their regular activities within a week or so. For a more specific recovery timeline, please contact Dr. Pamel today.
Posted in: LASIK
