After a LASIK or PRK procedure, the next step is recovering and returning to your normal activities. This source shares tips for everyone that has undergone the procedure to take a clue and bounce back almost immediately.
Here are a few tips:
1. Ask someone to take you home
Doctors often advise that you show up for surgery with a close friend or family member. After the surgery, your sight will be temporarily blurred, so you won't be able to go home unassisted. Your temporary caregiver's job is to take you home safely and help you with one or two errands until you have fully recovered.
2. Organize your post-operation meals
If you have a chef, you would appreciate them more after this procedure because they would help in meal planning. Imagine having to do all the cooking with your blurry vision. Even if you don't have someone to cook for you, you can get a friend or family member to do it while you recover because your blurry vision may not allow you to do all the work. It would be best to eat healthy as it hastens the recovery process.
3. Store your eye drops in the refrigerator
Your LASIK surgeon would recommend some anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops. It gives a soothing and chilling sensation when dropped into the eyes. Because you may experience dryness during the healing process, it is advised to lubricate your eyes frequently. It would be best if you had these eye drops in your bag outdoors and some inside your fridge.
4. Buy a lightweight cold compress to place over your eyes
If you are planning to do PRK, be prepared to get something cool to place over your eyelids and forehead, as this helps your eyes feel less irritable. This helps you to sleep faster and longer. Ensure to seek approval from your surgeon before embarking on this therapy.
5. Wash your hair on the morning of the surgery
You're wondering about the connection between washing one's hair and preparing for eye surgery. The chances are that water gets into your eyes while washing your hair. Doctors recommend that patients avoid washing their hair or face for a few days after the surgery. You can clean your face and the skin around your eyes with a damp washcloth. If soap gets into your eyes accidentally, avoid rubbing them but rinse well with artificial tears. It would help if you also avoided hot tubs as they are forbidden for at least a month after surgery.
6. Avoid the screen
Today, entertainment is tied to watching TV, playing video games, or surfing the internet. Unfortunately, your doctors would advise you to stay away from the screen for a day (LASIK) or two (PRK). You can find other ways to get busy aside from seeing a movie or looking at any screen.
