What to Expect After Lasik

Knowing what to expect after Lasik laser vision correction plays an important role in making the decision on whether or not to have the surgery performed. For many, the after care may seem daunting enough to keep them from going through the surgery. Understanding what it really involves can help address some fears that may be associated with the Lasik procedure.

The first thing to expect after Lasik is blurred vision. After the surgery is done, the eyes will be blurry, or as many describe it to be, smoky. This sensation often begins to resolve itself within the first 24 hours after surgery.

After the Lasik laser eye surgery, expect to be instructed to go home and sleep. This is the best way to encourage healing of the flap that's been cut into the front of the eye. By sleeping, repetitive blinking is eliminated giving the flap a chance to heal.

Special eye goggles will be provided to wear while sleeping. These are required to prevent the patient from inadvertently rubbing or scratching the eye during the night. This could have serious effects on the flap as it has not had the chance to heal in place. The goggles should also be worn if there is a chance of the eyes getting bumped, poked, or hit.

Another thing to expect after Lasik laser vision correction is irritated eyes. Many patients relate this to the feeling of having a grain of sand in the eye. The normal reflex is to rub or scratch the eye but must be avoided to allow the flap to heal.

A varying number of prescribed eye drops will be given to the patient to use for several days following the Lasik procedure. Drops are provided to prevent dryness and relieve pain. These should be used according to the doctor's instructions. Most are required for use several times daily. If pain is experience, oral pain relievers may be prescribed as well.

An important service to expect after Lasik is repeat follow up visits with the eye doctor. These are important to be sure the eyes are healing according to schedule. The rate of vision improvement will be charted as well.

After Lasik laser vision correction, expect a sudden vision improvement to a certain degree. Only over time will the vision continue to improve. It can take up to six months for clear vision to reach its full potential. Some fluctuations in vision may be experienced during this time as well.

Other things to expect after Lasik laser vision correction include some minor dryness of the eyes or halos and glaring during nighttime. While these often are eliminated as the eyes heal, for some it is a lasting effect.

Be sure to fully understand what to expect after Lasik laser vision corrective surgery prior to having the procedure done. All after care instructions will be discussed at the time of surgery as well. Knowing what to expect can help the individual make a well educated decision regarding Lasik vision correction.

As a nurse Heather Gurzell understands the importance of researching the entire process of Lasik Sacramento. After doing her homework Heather highly recommends one of the Pacific Laser Eye Center's Northern California locations, such as their Oakland Lasik clinic.