Our eyes are the most sensitive organs in our body that provide us with vision. Often, this crucial organ develops errors that interfere with our vision and we have to use prescription spectacles or contact lenses to correct the problem. However, these are external aids and can often be inconvenient. LASIK eye surgery can be the answer to the problem.
Who benefits from LASIK surgery?
Patients who have a refractive error – when the eye does not refract/ bend light accurately for good vision need this surgery. To have clear vision, light rays must travel through the cornea and lens. The cornea and lens refract light so it lands on the retina. The retina then converts light into signals that travel to your brain and become images. When the eye has a refractive error, the shape of the cornea or lens does not allow light to bend properly, resulting in blurry vision.
Why LASIK Surgery?
LASIK is a type of refractive surgery for the eye. LASIK surgery uses a particular type of laser to surgically correct vision problems caused by refractive errors. The procedure is done by reshaping the cornea of the eye, to properly focus the light on the retina of the eye.
The laser technique corrects farsightedness, nearsightedness or astigmatism, of patients who meet the criteria for the procedure. However, after the Lasik eye surgery, proper care must be taken to avoid any infection or complications that might set in.
The Dos and Don`ts after the Lasik surgery
Since the eye is a very sensitive organ, adequate care must be taken to ensure that it is protected – particularly when it is healing after a LASIK surgery, when you might experience irritation or tearing. Here are a few dos and don’ts that you must know before you undertake the procedure, so you are prepared, well in advance.
Dos:
Your doctor will prescribe eye drops which are to be used at a regular frequency, after the surgery. Use the eye drops, as requested.
Keep your eyelids shut for at least 4 to 5 minutes after using the eye drops.
Before applying the eye ointment (if any), eye drops are to be used
Dab the edges of your eyelid very gently, with sterile tissues
Blink regularly to moisten your eye
For the first few days, wash and clean your face carefully, avoiding any contact with the eyes
Wash your hands well before bringing them anywhere close to your eyes
Cover your eyes with clean sunglasses while stepping out in the sun and pollution
Do arrange for someone to keep your phone safe while you are in the OT. Phones will not be allowed inside this area.
You can read books and watch TV from the very next day of the LASIK surgery
You can have a normal diet
Once you get home after the surgery, get some rest in a dark room
Do arrange for a vehicle to take you to the hospital for your Day 1 follow up with the surgeon
Don`ts:
Don’t bare your eyes to smoke, pet fur, dust and pollution for a few days
Don’t wash your hair for a couple of days after the LASIK surgery
Don’t rub your eyes or touch your eyes with dirty hands.
Don’t splash water into the eyes for at least a week post the surgery.
Don’t use tap water to clean your eyes.
Don’t swim or get into a hot tub for about one month post the surgery.
Don’t use eye makeups for at least two weeks post the surgery.
Don’t exercise for at least 1 week after the surgery.
Don’t put stress on your eyes by sitting in front of the computer screen for at least three days after the surgery.
Don’t self-drive any vehicle for at least one week after the surgery Don’t hesitate to inform your eye doctor if you are in need of any help or any answers.