LASIK, or Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, is a procedure designed to reshape the cornea and correct vision problems, reducing the need for glasses or contact lenses. The success of this surgery relies heavily on meticulous adherence to post-operative instructions, particularly in the immediate hours and days following the procedure. During LASIK, a thin flap is created in the cornea, which is then lifted to allow the laser to sculpt the underlying tissue before being repositioned. The sensitivity and initial healing of this corneal flap dictate the required temporary lifestyle adjustments.
The Critical Initial Eye Closure Period
Immediately after the LASIK procedure, patients are advised to keep their eyes closed for a specific period to ensure the corneal flap begins its initial adhesion. This mandatory rest period typically lasts for two to four hours while resting at home. The purpose of this sustained closure is to allow the flap to naturally adhere to the underlying corneal tissue without external disturbance.
The flap adheres without stitches, relying on the natural suction of the cornea’s endothelial cell pump to secure it in place. Keeping the eyes closed minimizes movement and pressure, helping to establish the epithelial seal around the flap’s edges. This period also helps manage common immediate symptoms like a gritty sensation, burning, or excessive tearing as the numbing drops wear off. Resting with the eyes closed promotes a faster transition to clearer vision.
Protecting the Eyes During Sleep
Protection of the eyes during sleep is an important part of the initial healing process, focusing on preventing accidental trauma. Patients are instructed to wear protective eye shields, sometimes called goggles, continuously while sleeping for the first several nights after surgery. This measure creates a physical barrier that prevents accidental rubbing, bumping, or pressure on the eyes during sleep.
The recommended duration for wearing these shields typically ranges from three to seven nights, depending on the surgeon’s protocol. Accidental eye rubbing poses a significant risk of dislodging or wrinkling the freshly repositioned corneal flap. Patients are also advised to sleep on their backs for the first night or two to avoid pressing their face into a pillow.
Immediate Post-Operative Restrictions
Once the initial mandatory rest is over, a new set of restrictions governs daily life for the first 24 to 72 hours to protect the healing surface. The most important prohibition is against rubbing or squeezing the eyes, a restriction that remains important for months, with the first two to four weeks being the most vulnerable period. Accidental mechanical trauma is the greatest threat to the corneal flap’s stability, which is why artificial tears are provided to manage dryness and itchiness.
Restrictions on water exposure are strictly enforced to prevent infection from tap water or contaminants. Patients should avoid getting soap, shampoo, or direct shower water into their eyes for at least the first week after surgery. Swimming pools, hot tubs, and natural bodies of water present a high risk of bacterial contamination and should be avoided for two to four weeks.
While vision may improve rapidly, activities that cause eye strain or dryness are limited for the first 24 hours. This includes reading, watching television, and using computer or phone screens, as these activities can reduce the blink rate, leading to ocular dryness.
Most patients can safely resume driving within 24 hours, but only after their vision is confirmed to meet legal requirements at their first post-operative check-up. The application of eye makeup, creams, or lotions near the eye is prohibited for at least one to two weeks due to the risk of introducing foreign particles or contaminants to the healing corneal surface.