Postoperative Care Instructions for Laser Vision Correction Surgery
Dec 19, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
Post-LASIK Surgery Care Instructions:
1. For the first 2 days after surgery, wear protective eyewear (e.g., wind-protective or sunglasses) during the day and an eye shield while sleeping to prevent accidental displacement of the corneal flap due to external pressure or trauma.
2. Avoid nightclubs and dance halls for one week following surgery. Also, refrain from consuming spicy or irritating foods during this period; no dietary restrictions apply after the first week.
3. For two weeks post-surgery, avoid splashing water into your eyes while washing your hair or face, and do not rub your eyes.
Individuals with more severe vision problems may opt for laser eye surgery to restore visual acuity. However, this procedure carries inherent risks. Prior to undergoing surgery, a comprehensive ophthalmic examination is essential. Under no circumstances should patients seek laser surgery at unlicensed or so-called “private clinics,” as doing so may lead to serious, long-term complications. Postoperatively, patients must diligently follow recommended care protocols to facilitate optimal recovery and regain clear, comfortable vision.
Postoperative Precautions Following Laser Vision Correction Surgery
1. For the first two days after surgery, wear protective eyewear (e.g., wind- or UV-blocking sunglasses) during waking hours. While sleeping, wear an eye shield to safeguard the operated eye and prevent accidental displacement of the corneal flap due to external pressure or trauma.
2. Avoid nightclubs and dance halls for one week post-surgery. Refrain from consuming spicy or highly stimulating foods during this period to minimize ocular discomfort. After one week, dietary restrictions are generally lifted.
3. For two weeks following surgery, take care when washing your hair or face to prevent water from entering the eyes. Do not rub your eyes.
4. Swimming is prohibited for one month post-surgery. Avoid applying cosmetics near the eyes and protect against foreign objects entering the eyes. Wearing an eye shield while sleeping is advisable. To alleviate ocular discomfort, wearing protective (wind- or UV-blocking) sunglasses outdoors is recommended for the first month.
5. For three months post-surgery, avoid any direct impact or trauma to the operated eye.
6. In the early postoperative period, some patients may experience temporary difficulty focusing on distant or near objects, unequal vision between the eyes, or diplopia (double vision). To reduce visual fatigue, low-power reading glasses may be temporarily prescribed. These symptoms are common and expected during recovery; however, their onset, severity, and duration vary significantly among individuals. Please remain reassured—these are normal, transient phenomena.
7. Maintain good ocular hygiene post-surgery. Avoid prolonged close-up visual tasks (e.g., fine-detail work), extended reading, or excessive television viewing, as these activities may induce visual fatigue and compromise surgical outcomes.
All surgical procedures entail risks—and laser vision correction is no exception. Therefore, in daily life, we strongly advise everyone to prioritize eye health: avoid overuse or strain on the eyes, consume nutrient-rich foods beneficial for ocular function, practice stress reduction, and embrace a joyful, balanced lifestyle.
