Lasik has helped millions of patients with refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Lasik surgery is famed for a quick procedure with minimal recovery and direct results. Vision results vary depending on the patient. Discover more about what you can expect from Lasik.

Lasik Surgery

The procedure is performed by creating a flap in the outermost layer of the cornea with a microkeratome blade. The Lasik surgeon then uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. The flap is replaced and serves as a natural bandage.

Your Responsibility During Lasik Recovery

The best Lasik surgery results are achieved through a healthy patient and a qualified Lasik surgeon. But success during the healing period also depends on you. Following postoperative instructions are essential to a quick Lasik recovery.

Schedule a Follow Up Exam After Lasik

In addition to abiding by instructions from your laser eye surgeon, you must also schedule follow up exams. The first follow up should take place one to two days after surgery. The surgeon will monitor the success of the procedure, and check the healing process, as well. This is an opportunity to address any concerns you may have.

Vision Results After Lasik

Vision results and healing period varies from patient to patient. As a guideline, you should notice visual improvement the first day. You can expect blurred vision directly after surgery, as well as halos, starbursts and sensitivity to light. But most Lasik patients report a 90 percent improvement within 24 hours after surgery. Many patients can see without glasses or contacts the day after Lasik. Vision will continue to improve during the first few weeks.

Lasik Healing Period

You may experience some discomfort during the first day or two after Lasik surgery. Common symptoms are burning and irritation. For the first three weeks after Lasik, do not rub your eyes under any circumstances. Rubbing your eyes during early recovery can disrupt the corneal flap.

As part of the recovery process, your Lasik surgeon will prescribe artificial tears, steroid drops and antibiotic drops. Eye drops promote healing and prevent infection. If you experience complications with dry eyes, you may need to administer artificial tears for the first three weeks.

Most vision related side effects subside within a few days following surgery. However, full recovery can take some time. Your eyes may take up to six months to fully adjust to Lasik surgery. Taking care of your eyes as directed by the Lasik surgeon aids the process.

You're vision may continue to improve following Lasik surgery. But you may also experience periods of vision fluctuation. This is a common occurrence. Visual acuity is immediate, but visual clarity may take some time. During the healing period, you will notice your eyes slowly regaining contrast sensitivity, a term used to describe contrast sharpness between and object and the background.

Schedule a Lasik Screening