What Can I Expect During the LASIK Recovery?

After careful consultation, you’ve decided that LASIK surgery is the best option to correct your vision and that I’m the most qualified surgeon to perform the operation. Maybe you’re wondering what happens after the surgery, and what you can expect during the recovery.

LASIK recovery is generally very short and hassle-free. The days following the procedure will have you seeing the world in a whole new way. You will discover numerous benefits to your new glasses- or contacts-free lifestyle and see better than you ever could before. Your only regret may be, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”

Immediately after LASIK

As the numbing eye drops wear off after surgery, you may have some slight discomfort. Don’t worry — we give our patients mild pain relievers. You will also receive eye drops with instructions to use for the next week.

You should have someone drive you home from surgery, as you will not be able drive yourself. On the ride home, you will be wearing special goggles to protect your eyes; you will need to wear these goggles for the remainder of the day of your procedure, and while you sleep for the next week. During the few hours after LASIK, you might notice that your vision looks blurry or foggy. Some of our patients describe their vision as looking through a fog bank.

When you get home, you should go straight to bed. Upon waking up later in the day, your vision will probably already be clearer and crisper.

The Day after LASIK

When you wake up the day after LASIK, you can remove your goggles and marvel at how your visual world has changed. You’ll notice things like easily seeing the hands of the clock across the room without your glasses or contacts. In an upcoming blog post, I will go into detail about the exciting and unexpected benefits of LASIK surgery.

At this point, you can bathe as long as you avoid letting water get in your eyes. You will have your first follow-up appointment with me personally (unless other arrangements have been made), so I can check in with you and ensure you are healing optimally.

My Promise to You

I have a genuine concern for your happiness and an ethical responsibility to deliver the highest quality care before, during and after LASIK surgery. You will have my personal cell phone number and email address in case you need to reach me at any point during your LASIK recovery. You will also have access to unlimited personal follow-up appointments with me to address any questions or concerns. I care deeply about your safety and satisfaction, and I will do whatever it takes to give you the best vision possible.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me and my team at our La Jolla office by calling (858) 551-4100 today.

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