Life After LASIK: The Importance of Post-Op
Published by on July 24, 2019
At Kugler Vision in Omaha, Nebraska, we know how exciting and relieving it is to have fresh, clear vision without barriers – welcome to a new view! If you are like many of us who have had LASIK vision correction, you probably have a handful of questions about not only the actual procedure but also about what comes next. We’re here to explain the importance of your post-op follow-up visits, when you’ll have appointments, what to expect, and why they’re important.
The Day After
The big day has come and gone – now what? You are probably feeling brand new and ready to take on the day with your fresh view. Most people drive themselves to their post-op appointment the day after LASIK, and return to work and regular activities. Your first stop of the day will likely be to our office for your post-op LASIK visit. Don’t worry, it’s quick (and exciting, like everything we do here).
Your one-day, one month, and one-year post-op LASIK appointments are important for a few reasons, but mainly for our team and doctors to make sure that you’re comfortable and to check out the clarity of your new vision. Here’s what to expect at your post-op visits:
- Snellen Chart: You know, those tests we all dreaded before LASIK, the ones that determine your ability to see. A refractive test is essential for making sure your eyesight is up to par, especially after your vision-changing procedure. Fact: Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better a day after LASIK.
- A Closer Look: The slit lamp is used to examine the front and external parts of your eye. The doctors are able to take a closer look at the incredibly tiny slit on your cornea from LASIK that is not visible without this special equipment.
Post-Op Eyedrops
After your laser vision correction procedure, it is very important to stay on top of your drops. We supply our patients with antibiotic and steroid drops that are essential to the LASIK recovery to ensure proper healing and relief for your new vision. If you have any questions about your eyedrops or when the application is needed, please call us at 402-558-2211. We are happy to help!
The Dos and Don’ts
While the recovery for LASIK is quick and does not require a leave of absence from your daily routine, keeping these post-op LASIK tips handy will ensure the best visual outcome for years to come.
DO: Wear the eye shield while sleeping for one week
AVOID: Rubbing your eyes for two weeks
- Side note: It’s never recommended to rub your eyes, whether you’ve had LASIK or not. For more about this, read our blog post on it here: Why Rubbing Your Eyes Is Harmful.
DO: Use your eyedrops accordingly
AVOID: Getting sweat in your eyes for two weeks
DO: Keep all of your appointments
AVOID: Wearing eye makeup for one week
DO: Protect your eyes from UV rays when you are outside
AVOID: Swimming pools and tanning beds for two weeks
DO: Shower and/or wash hair normally
AVOID: Hot tubs for six weeks
Transforming your life with LASIK is exciting. If crisp, clear vision is what you’re seeking, we are so eager to help you achieve your best vision possible! Our team at Kugler Vision is happy to help with any questions or further post-op needs you may have. Contact us at 402.558.2211.
Lance Kugler, MD, is a specialist in LASIK and vision correction surgery and CEO of Kugler Vision. A proud Omaha native, he is passionate about improving lives through clear vision. Dr. Kugler serves on several national boards, and his practice is recognized internationally as a center of excellence. Dr. Kugler is one of the original founders of the Refractive Surgery Alliance, an international organization comprised of over 350 of the world’s leading vision correction surgeons; he also served as its first president. In 2019, Dr. Kugler was selected as a TEDx speaker, and delivered a talk in Omaha about the worldwide epidemic of nearsightedness and refractive solutions. Dr. Kugler is an Associate Professor of Refractive Surgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Truhlsen Eye Institute, has been published in many medical journals, and participates in numerous clinical studies to advance the field of vision correction surgery. Additionally, Dr. Kugler is proud to be a Board Certified Fellow of the World College of Refractive Surgery & Visual Sciences. Dr. Kugler and his wife are proud parents to five active kids. When he has a spare moment, he enjoys skiing, tennis, travel, and fine coffee.
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