Monday, March 22, 2010

Post Operative Symptoms After Lasik Surgery

After Lasik surgery, patients might experience a range of common, post-operative symptoms. Dry eyes, watering eyes, blurred vision and irritation are generally mild and temporary. Most individuals can return to work within two or three days, although the entire healing process might take several months, and both eyes might not heal at exactly the same rate.


Vision


Your vision will likely be hazy immediately and for about a day after surgery. While vision should stabilize to the targeted correction measurements within three to six months, glare, halos or starbursts around bright lights, especially at night, are common.


Dry Eye


Dry eye is the most common symptom after Lasik, and can cause a gritty feeling and intermittent blurred vision. Although usually temporary, if dry eye becomes chronic and left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision problems or blindness.


Red Spots


During the procedure, tiny blood vessels might burst, leaving a red spot on the white of the eye. These are harmless and disappear within a few days or weeks.


Treating Symptoms


After Lasik surgery, your doctor will have you use preservative-free artificial tears, a topical anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops. Do not rub your eyes after Lasik surgery; use an over-the-counter pain reliever if necessary and consult your doctor if any symptoms become severe.


Recommended Care


Drink water to stay hydrated and avoid diuretics such as caffeine and alcohol. Protect your eyes from wind or blowing air, extreme cold or heat, and irritants such as smoke and dust.







Tags: Lasik surgery, After Lasik, blurred vision, Symptoms After, Symptoms After Lasik, within three, your doctor