Refractive Surgery: 5 Follow-up Activities You Should Do for Healthy Eyes

Refractive surgery is a form of eye surgery corrects vision problems by reshaping the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. The most common types of refractive surgery are LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) and PRK (photorefractive keratectomy).

Refractive surgery is a very safe and effective procedure, However, it is important to carefully follow your doctor’s instructions after surgery to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are five maintenance steps you should perform after refractive surgery to maintain healthy eyes:

1. Take all medications prescribed by your doctor

For healthy eyes after refractive surgery, taking all medications prescribed by your doctor is extremely important. Your doctor has prescribed these medications to help you heal and prevent complications.

Here are some of the benefits of taking all prescribed medications:

• Reduces the risk of infection
• Promotes healing
• Reduces pain and inflammation
• Helps maintain and improve vision
• Prevents complications such as dry eyes, glaucoma and cataracts

If you have any questions or concerns about the medications you are prescribed, be sure to consult your doctor. They can help you understand the medication and take it safely and effectively.

Here are some tips for taking all medications properly:

• Create a medication schedule and stick to it. You can use a pill box or a reminder app to keep track.
• If possible, take your medication at the same time every day. This will help maintain consistent levels of medication in your body.
• Take your medication with food or water unless your doctor tells you otherwise. This can help reduce side effects such as stomach upset.
• If you If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
• Do not take more medication than prescribed, even if you feel better. Taking too many medications can be dangerous and lead to side effects.
• If you notice side effects from your medication, Talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to adjust your dosage or prescribe a different medication.

2. Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes

Rubbing or touching your eyes after refractive surgery can be very dangerous because it can increase your risk of infection and damage your healing cornea.

In refractive surgery, the surgeon creates a thin flap in the cornea to reshape the underlying tissue. It takes several weeks for this flap to heal completely. If you rub or touch your eyes too soon, the flap could come loose, which could cause serious vision problems.

Additionally, rubbing your eyes can introduce bacteria and other germs into your eyes, which can lead to an infection. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes.

Additionally, for the first few weeks after surgery, avoid wearing eye makeup and avoid swimming and other activities that could get water into your eyes.

If you accidentally rub or touch your eyes, wash them immediately with water and contact your doctor.

Here are some additional tips to help you avoid rubbing your eyes:

• If you feel the urge to rub your eyes, try blinking quickly instead.
• Apply a cool compress to your eyes to relieve any itching or dryness.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can dry out your eyes.
• Take breaks from computer and screen time.
• Get enough sleep.

If you follow these tips, They can help your eyes heal properly after refractive surgery and help you maintain good vision.

3. Use artificial tears or lubricants as needed

The use of artificial tears or lubricants after refractive surgery is important for several reasons.

• To relieve dry eyes. Dry eye is a common side effect of refractive surgery. and artificial tears can help keep eyes moist and comfortable.
• To reduce inflammation. Refractive surgery can cause inflammation of the eyes. and artificial tears can help relieve this inflammation.
• To promote healing. Artificial tears can help promote corneal healing after refractive surgery.
• To prevent complications. Dry eyes and inflammation can increase the risk of complications after refractive surgery. such as infections and scarring. Using artificial tears can help prevent these complications.

When choosing an artificial tear or lubricant It is important to choose one that is preservative-free. Preservatives can irritate the eyes, especially after refractive surgery.

To use artificial tears or lubricants, Simply place one or two drops in each eye as needed. You can use artificial tears as often as needed throughout the day.

Here are some additional tips for using artificial tears or lubricants:

• Use artificial tears before and after using eye drops prescribed by your doctor.
• Avoid artificial tears that contain alcohol or other irritants.
• If you wear contact lenses, Remove these before using artificial tears.
• After using artificial tears, wait at least 15 minutes before putting your contact lenses back in.

4. Wear sunglasses outdoors

Wearing sunglasses outdoors after refractive surgery is important for several reasons.

• To protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays can damage the cornea and lens of the eye, Increased risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
• To reduce glare and squinting. Glare and squinting can cause eye strain and fatigue. Sunglasses can help reduce glare and make seeing outdoors more comfortable.
• To protect your eyes from wind and dust. Wind and dust can dry out your eyes and irritate them. Sunglasses can help protect your eyes from these elements.

When choosing sunglasses after refractive surgery: It is important to choose those who:

• Blocks 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays.
• To protect your eyes from all sides, you have a surrounding frame.
• Are dark enough to reduce glare, but not so dark that they obscure your vision.

It is also important to avoid sunglasses that are too tight or too heavy, as these can put pressure on your eyes and cause discomfort.

Here are some additional tips for wearing sunglasses:

• Wear sunglasses even on cloudy days, because UV rays can penetrate clouds.
• Wear sunglasses when driving as glare from the sun and oncoming headlights can be dangerous.
• Wear sunglasses when playing sports or participating in other outdoor activities.
• Replace your sunglasses every 2-3 years. or sooner if the lenses become scratched or damaged.

5. Have your eyes examined regularly

Regular eye exams after refractive surgery are important for several reasons.

• To monitor your vision. Refractive surgery can correct your vision. However, it is important to continue to have your eyes checked regularly to ensure your vision remains stable.
• Detect and treat eye diseases early. Even after refractive surgery, there is still a risk of developing eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. Regular eye exams can help detect these diseases early, when they are most treatable.
• To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your refractive surgery. Your eye doctor will want to examine your eyes regularly to ensure that the refractive surgery was successful and that there are no complications.

How often you need to have an eye exam after refractive surgery depends on your individual needs and risk factors. Your eye doctor will recommend a schedule based on your age, general health, and the type of refractive surgery you have.

Do not miss: Puffy Eyes: The Natural Solutions That Actually Work