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How to Care for Your Eyes After Epi-LASIK: Dos and Don’ts

Are you having an Epi-LASIK soon? Do you already know what you can and cannot do during the recovery period?

When it comes to Epi-LASIK and any other type of laser eye surgery, what you do after the procedure is critical to the healing process and achieving optimal results – which is why it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

Continue reading to learn the basics of Epi-LASIK aftercare, from taking prescribed medications to lessening screen time as much as possible.

What happens during Epi-LASIK?

The main difference between Epi-LASIK and traditional LASIK is how the corneal flap is produced.

In Epi-LASIK, a much thinner flap is separated from the outer corneal layer using an instrument called an epithelial separator and no alcohol solution is applied. That’s why doctors often recommend it to people with usually thin corneas.

Since the flap is so thin, a soft contact lens will be applied over it after the surgery to help reposition it, accelerating the healing process.

Expect that your vision won’t be perfect immediately after the procedure as some patients take about three to six months to see the final results. 

So… what are you supposed to do and avoid after Epi-LASIK?

DO: Take medications as prescribed

As with any laser eye surgery, you will be prescribed medications and eye drops to promote faster healing, reduce inflammation, and prevent infections.

Antibiotics are a preventative treatment against bacterial infections while eye drops are used to manage and reduce inflammation as the eyes recover.

Take these medications as instructed by your doctor and don’t discontinue unless you’re instructed to do so, even if your eyes start to feel better.

DON’T: Use electronic devices for 

During recovery, limit activities that could cause stress or strain to your eyes, such as using mobile phones for extended periods of time.

Doctors suggest putting the phone down and keeping the television off for at least 24 to 48 hours after undergoing Epi-LASIK.

The reason is quite self-explanatory: video screens can strain the eyes and cause them to dry out.

If using mobile phones or reading can’t be avoided, make sure to apply eye drops regularly to keep your eyes lubricated.

Likewise, avoid reading books or any type of printed media in the first few days of recovery. Reading makes the eyes focus on text, placing a strain on the eyes post-surgery.

DO: Wash your eyes carefully

Taking a shower is generally advised after laser eye surgery to ensure cleanliness, reduce discomfort, and prevent infections caused by dirt. 

When washing, gently cleanse only the surrounding area (not the eyeballs themselves!) with mild soap and make sure not to rub the eyes.

Likewise, avoid steam rooms, saunas, and swimming pools for the time being.

DON’T: Exercise too soon

It’s important not to engage in strenuous physical activities immediately after undergoing any type of laser eye surgery. Doctors generally suggest waiting until at least 2 to 3 days after the procedure to avoid complications.

Activities like running, swimming, jumping, and working out may cause strain to the eyes, which can affect the healing process and final outcome of your vision.

DO: Attend your follow-up consultations

After your laser eye surgery, your doctor should schedule you for follow-up consultations to track your progress and make necessary adjustments.

The schedule of these appointments will depend on how the surgery went, your condition, and the risk of complications. Generally, they’ll be scheduled about 1 to 2 days after the procedure and then again about a month later. 

If you want to know if Epi-LASIK is the right procedure for you, get in touch with the specialists at Shinagawa Eye Centre for a comprehensive consultation and diagnostics. Call to enquire or book an appointment today!

SOURCES:

https://www.allaboutvision.com/visionsurgery/epi-lasik.htm

https://www.advvisioncenters.com/eye-health/laser-eye-surgery-aftercare-10-dos-and-donts-after-laser-eye-surgery/

https://www.providenceeye.com/blog/after-lasik-eye-surgery-bathing-medications-daily-activities

https://www.clearviewinstitute.com/blog/laser-eye-surgery-aftercare-the-dos-and-donts-edition/