After undergoing LASIK eye surgery at Boothe Eye Care, most patients are able to return to work one to three days. Dr. Boothe will give you instructions on how to care for your eyes after the procedure. For most patients, he recommends that they return to work only when they feel comfortable doing so. Some patients are able to resume daily activities just one day after LASIK surgery. Generally, life becomes easier and more comfortable, as LASIK procedure gives patients freedom from contact lenses and eye glasses so they can participate in physical activities without obstruction.
Immediately after surgery, however, physical activities will increase the risk of post-LASIK complications, and thus should be avoided at first. Complications that occur during the recovery period may pose adverse effects to the final outcome of the surgery, so it’s important to follow all of Dr. Boothe’s guidelines and recommendations after the procedure.
Dr. Boothe recommends that the patient wear sunglasses to protect against dangerous ultraviolet rays, as the eyes will be particular vulnerable following the procedure. The patient should protect their eyes from UV rays for a minimum of six weeks. Your doctor may recommend that you wear sunglasses for several months. Exposure to UV rays may result in the occurrence of corneal haze, which can reverse the positive effects of the LASIK procedure. In order to protect yourself against damage from UV rays, you should also avoid tanning beds and direct sunlight. Ultraviolet rays can cause retinal damage and lead to the formation of cataracts. For the first few nights, you’ll need to wear goggles at bedtime so you don’t rub your eyes while you sleep.
Patients should strictly avoid contact sports for at least one month after the procedure. Sports to be avoided include football, badminton, volleyball, racquetball, tennis, hockey, boxing, and martial arts. An injury or a blow to the eyes during the healing period can result in corneal flap complications. After the recovery period, it is advisable to wear protective glasses while playing any kind of contact sport. Avoid high altitude activities such as skiing and mountain climbing, as the absence of oxygen and pressure change will affect vision. Dry eye is a major problem at high altitudes, even for people who have not undergone LASIK eye surgery.
After the LASIK procedure, patients will be able to enjoy swimming and other water sports like never before. Initially, however, you must refrain from water sports and activities for one to two months. After LASIK eye surgery, the eyes will be especially vulnerable to inflammation or infection. Natural water usually contains bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause infections in your eyes. Saunas and swimming pools use chlorinated water, and the chlorine content of the water can cause dry, irritated eyes. Like other sports, there is a risk of flap complications if you participate in more aggressive water activities.
In order to enjoy the full benefits of your procedure, it’s very important that you follow the abovementioned guidelines after LASIK eye surgery. Dr. William Boothe will prescribe anti-inflammatory and antibiotic medications, which need to be administered regularly after returning home. Lubricating eye drops or artificial tears are also recommended by Dr. Boothe to alleviate dry eye symptoms. To learn more, please visit Boothe Eye Care.