LASIK has been growing in popularity as a means of addressing refractive error. Many patients who undergo LASIK surgery are able to see just fine without the aid of contact lenses or glasses. That is why many eye care patients have asked our team members about the LASIK procedure and what they can expect.

Right now, we’d like to focus on the side effects of LASIK surgery and what patients will experience as they recover. By knowing what to expect before, during, and after surgery, patients can have a better understanding of the surgery and maintain realistic expectations of care.

About LASIK Surgery

LASIK surgery is a refractive procedure that uses safe laser technology to reshape the corneas. This improves the way light passes through the eyes and focuses on the retinas, thus remedying nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.

Are side effects common after LASIK?

Yes. LASIK is a surgical procedure and all surgeries involve side effects as part of the healing process. This is a natural part of your body recovering and rebuilding. Many of the side effects are mild, thankfully, and you will receive ample instructions about how they can be dealt with.

Common Side Effects Following LASIK Surgery

Some of the most common side effects that patients experience following LASIK are:

  • Soreness
  • Discomfort
  • Dry eye
  • Itchiness
  • Light sensitivity
  • Glare
  • Halos
  • Starbursts
  • Blurry vision

How long will these side effects last?

In general, these side effects following LASIK surgery will last for a few weeks to a few months. This really depends on the patient’s own experiences while healing. You will remain in contact with our ophthalmologists in the months following your LASIK surgery for follow-up care. You are encouraged to ask questions and voice concerns during this post-operative care period so that all matters can get addressed and any potential complications can be treated before they become serious.

Tips for Dealing with LASIK Side Effects

There are a few things that patients can do to reduce the severity of numerous LASIK symptoms. First of all, we recommend that patients avoid bright lights and direct sunlight for a few days after the LASIK procedure has been performed. Patients should wear sunglasses and a hat with a brim to help protect the eyes from exposure to harsh light.

To avoid major irritation of the eyes, patients should avoid dry, dusty, or smoky areas. If such places cannot be avoided, proper eye protection should be worn in these environments.

As dry eye is a common side effects of LASIK surgery, patients need to keep liquid tears with them at all times. By doing so, they will be able to stop attacks of dry eye without having to deal with the constant discomfort.

Alternatives to LASIK

If you are not a good candidate for LASIK surgery, there are many different options for comprehensive vision care to consider. We will be more than happy to go over these matters with you in greater detail when you stop by for a visit.

Learn More About LASIK Surgery

If you would like to learn more about LASIK surgery and how it can be of great benefit to you, be sure to contact our Austin eye care and vision correction doctors today. Our entire team looks forward to discussing these matters with you in greater detail and helping you make the best possible decisions regarding your vision and eye health.