Refractive corneal surgery to help improve your vision. This surgery uses a laser to reshape your cornea. It corrects mild-to-moderate nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. You will be less dependent on glasses or contact lenses after the surgery. Sometimes, you will no longer need glasses.
Your surgery most likely took less than 30 minutes. You may have had surgery in both eyes.
Self-care and Follow-up
You will probably see your healthcare provider 1 or 2 days after surgery. Your provider will tell you what steps to take as you recover, such as:
- Take a few days off from work after surgery until most of your symptoms get better.
- Avoid all noncontact activities (such as bicycling and working out at the gym) for at least 3 days after surgery.
- Avoid contact sports (such as boxing and football) for the first 4 weeks after surgery.
- DO NOT swim or use a hot tub or whirlpool for about 2 weeks. (Ask your provider)
Your provider will give you eye drops to help prevent infection and reduce inflammation and soreness.
You will need to take care of your eyes:
- DO NOT rub or squeeze your eyes. Rubbing and squeezing could dislodge the flap, especially during the day of your surgery. If this happens, you will need another surgery to repair it. Starting the day after surgery, it should be OK to use artificial tears. Check with your provider.
- DO NOT wear contact lenses on the eye that had surgery, even if you have blurry vision.
- DO NOT use any makeup, creams, or lotions around your eye for the first 2 weeks.
- Always protect your eyes from being hit or bumped.
- Always wear sunglasses when you are in the sun.
