What to Expect After Laser Eye Surgery

Just as each person is different in many ways, the symptoms after laser eye surgery can be different for each person. Many people are now opting for this procedure as a way to see clearly without the aid of glasses or contact lenses, but some expect to walk out of the office with perfect vision and no complications or symptoms. The one thing that you must remember is this is a surgery procedure and all surgeries have risks.

The most common symptoms following laser eye surgery include the fluctuation of vision. During the first few hours after surgery, your vision will not be clear. It can fluctuate from clear to blurry for at least the first couple of hours and in some cases a bit longer.

Dry eyes are another complaint of some patients. The eyes will not have the natural tear producing characteristics for a few hours. This is the most common problem and can last for several days.

Many individuals see an indifference to light as well. When exposed to bright lights indoors or outdoors the eyes can feel aggravated. Your eye doctor will normally recommend that you wear an eye shield the first few hours after surgery to aid in helping the cornea to heal and to shield the eye from bright lighting.

Some individuals notice a glare or halo effect after surgery. In some cases, a second procedure must be done to correct this problem. However, in most cases, this symptom will also disappear over time.

If the eyes are not protected after surgery with an eye shield, dust and other objects can cause an eye infection, which will cause the eye to burn and itch.

Right after laser eye surgery, most individuals with farsightedness see a major improvement within 24 hours. Objects that are far away may still seem a bit blurry but over the next few days, this will improve. Persons with nearsightedness have noted improvement in their vision within one hour after surgery. However, some have had a few problems in reading shortly after surgery until their eyes have had time to heal. In some cases, reading glasses are prescribed until the eyes have had sufficient time to heal.

Bring someone along with you the day of your laser eye surgery. You will not be able to drive for a few hours after surgery. A flap is created in your cornea so surgery can be accomplished and this flap needs time to heal properly before you can take off the protective eye shield.

Remember, to keep all your appointments with your eye doctor to ensure that your vision is better.
Author: Nicky Pilkington