What to Expect When Recovering from LASIK

Your Eye Doctor in San Leandro, Concord, and Castro Valley explains

LASIK is considered one of the safest elective surgeries and performed widely around the world. It’s also a popular method of vision correction for our eye care patients at Turner Eye Institute, in San Leandro, Concord, and Castro Valley. Our eye surgeons offer LASIK in the comfort of our eye care clinics, making it very convenient for you to benefit from this laser eye surgery!

One question that we hear all the time is – what’s the LASIK recovery? Read on for a full discussion of what to expect after LASIK.

How will I feel immediately after LASIK?

To answer clearly, let’s begin with a review of the LASIK procedure. First, your eye surgeon will use a specialized tool to fold back the surface layer of the cornea. Then, a computer-assisted laser will be used to reshape the inner part of your eye before the corneal flap is returned to its original position. Now, all that’s left is for your eye to heal.

During the first 24 hours after LASIK, the flap will reseal. Many people feel absolutely nothing during this part of the healing process, while others experience mild eye pain and irritation or a gritty sensation in their eyes. Other possible short-lived side effects include blurry vision and light sensitivity.

What is the eye care immediately after LASIK?

After you have LASIK in our eye care clinic in San Leandro, Concord, or Castro Valley, you will not be able to drive yourself home. So you’ll need to arrange transportation.

Usually, patients need to rest for a few hours after the laser eye procedure. To prevent you from rubbing your eyes, we may also advise you to wear an eye shield for a few days, especially while sleeping. We may also prescribe eye drops to help prevent infection and swelling. Even if your vision is not crystal-clear yet, you will not be able to wear contact lenses.

Your eye doctor at Turner Eye Institute will generally perform an eye exam to check your healing within 24-48 hours after LASIK.

How long does it take for the full LASIK recovery?

Most people enjoy 20/20 vision within one to two days after LASIK, although some people must wait a few weeks to obtain their best vision. Gradually over the next six months, healthy tissue will continue to grow around the corneal flap, sealing it fully into place. Once that occurs, the entire LASIK recovery is done.

During those six months, vision fluctuations are normal. You may also need to refrain from participating in any high impact activities that could interfere with healing, or you’ll need to wear safety goggles to protect against eye trauma.

We will give you instructions about when to visit for follow-up exams in our San Leandro, Concord, and Castro Valley offices. These appointments are very important for your long-term vision.

Learn more about LASIK - contact us at Turner Eye Institute

LASIK can change your life! Typically, our patients are exhilarated by the vision results and their quick, smooth recovery. Every patient is different, but most people report feeling back to themselves within one or two days after the laser eye surgery. Contact our eye doctor to book a consultation and eye exam to find out if you’re a good candidate for LASIK.

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At Turner Eye Institute, we put your family's needs first. Talk to us about how we can help you maintain healthy vision. Call us today: 800-339-2733 or book an appointment online to see one of our San Leandro eye doctors.

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