Many people who are considering LASIK surgery have some concerns that their eyes will hurt, or that the recovery period after the surgery will be unpleasant. Knowing what to expect after LASIK surgery is over can help you decide whether or not LASIK surgery is for you.

Do your eyes hurt after LASIK surgery?

After LASIK surgery, your eyes may burn or itch. You may feel like there's something in your eye, even when there's not. It's important not to touch your eye during this time. Rubbing the eyes or attempting to touch the eyes in any way could result in the flap being dislodged, and that would require medical treatment to repair it.

You may also experience a problem wherein your eyes are extremely sensitive to daylight, or you may see star bursts and halos. All of these effects are normal and should go away after a few days.

Are you allowed to do normal activities after the surgery?

Once you regain normal vision in the eyes, you will be able to do activities like drive and go to work. Many people have normal vision the day after surgery. However, there are some activities that you will have to wait in order resume, even if your vision has fully returned. For example, your doctor may tell you that you have to wait a month before you can participate in high-contact sports like football or boxing. Your doctor may also tell you that you have to wait a few days before you can participate in non-contact sports, like golf.

Your doctor may also tell you to wait a while before applying makeup, eye cream or makeup remover around the eyes. The length of time you're told to wait may depend on your doctor and your particular situation. Your doctor may also advise you to wait a couple months getting into a hot tub or whirlpool. This is because your eyes are still stabilizing in the weeks and months after the surgery takes place. Until the surgical site is completely healed and stable, your eyes could be at risk for healing problems or infection.

How will you know when life can return completely to normal and all your old activities can resume?

Your doctor will schedule regular followup appointments for at least 6 months after your surgery. During those appointments, your doctor will monitor your progress. When your doctor is sure that your eyes are completely healed, he or she will tell you when you can participate in activities like contact sports and hot tub soaking. For more information about the LASIK surgery healing process, contact an experienced optometrist.

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