What Happens After LASIK Surgery?
You’ve completed all the screenings and tests. You’re an ideal candidate. You’ve researched the popular elective procedure and you’ve made up your mind. You may even know that LASIK is the most popular refractive surgery in the U.S., correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Even with the surest decision, you still might be tempted to wonder, “Have I made the right decision?”
But soon after your All-Laser LASIK procedure at Mann Eye Institute, when you are seeing life clearly for the first time in what feels like forever – without your glasses or contacts – that’s when you’ll know for sure.
Yes! LASIK was the right decision. It might even be the best decision you ever made! No regrets! LASIK at Mann Eye Institute has made the lives of tens of thousands of people simpler and clearer…now that they can See Life Better.
But juuuuust in case you’re still on the fence, let’s answer a few of the most common questions and concerns that we hear from people who are considering LASIK.
What Should I Expect Right After my LASIK Surgery?
All-Laser LASIK at Mann Eye Institute is fast, completed in about 10-15 minutes for both eyes. You will typically see improved vision, without glasses or contacts, within 24 hours, making recovery time for LASIK remarkably fast. As a precaution, you will need someone to drive you home after your procedure.
When the numbing drops wear off (about 20 minutes), you may (or may not) experience some discomfort, but it is typically minimal. Most people don’t report any discomfort! Depending on how your eyes react, you may temporarily experience a mild blurring, burning, itching or tearing in the eyes. For this reason, we recommend the use of preservative-free artificial tears as needed and also that you take a nap in the hours following LASIK surgery.
Nap time! Doctor’s orders :).
How Long Does it Take to Recover from LASIK?
If you are extremely nearsighted, it might take a little longer to recover from LASIK than individuals who are only slightly nearsighted. Although many of our patients wake up the next day with 20/20 vision, it is normal for some patients (those who have stronger prescriptions) to take a little more time for their eyes to adjust and heal completely.
Most people feel well enough to drive themselves to their next-day post-op exam, where they will be cleared to resume most normal activities.
When Can I Return to Normal Activities after Having LASIK?
At Mann Eye Institute, the majority of our LASIK patients report excellent vision within 24 hours of their surgery! Most are able to return to work and many normal activities the next day. You will have a follow-up appointment with your Mann Eye doctor the day after your procedure for a quick post-op check. Any issues or questions you have will be addressed at that time.
Will my LASIK Fade?
This is a common misconception. No, it won’t. LASIK creates a permanent change to the cornea, so the treatment will not fade over time. However as the eye ages, vision problems that are unrelated to the corneal surface can still occur, namely presbyopia (over-40 vision) and cataracts. When we assess your vision at Mann Eye Institute, we will determine which of our many advanced vision-correcting procedures is right for you.
Convinced? We hope so. The best part about LASIK is the opportunity to live life without restrictions. Are you ready to finally See Life Better? We’re ready to help. Schedule your free LASIK consultation today. Visit our locations pages for more information on LASIK in Austin and the surrounding areas.