Caring for your eyes after LASIK is crucial. The effort you put into your post-operative care makes all the difference in achieving optimal vision. After your LASIK procedure, your eyes will become extra sensitive. Wearing sunglasses after LASIK is one of the many ways to accelerate recovery. Here is more about the procedure and its recovery guidelines, including wearing sunglasses.
What Is A LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK, or laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileuses, helps correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and other vision problems. This corrective eye surgery reduces your need for glasses or contacts. You can get back to doing your everyday activities like never before. It is a relatively simple and painless procedure to lift the corneal flap, reshape the deeper layers of the cornea, and place the flap back to its original position–no invasive stitches, faster recovery, and better life quality.
You may be an ideal candidate if you are an adult with moderate to high refractive error but good overall eye health. Most patients can see a drastic improvement in their vision in the first 24 hours post-surgery. They can read, drive comfortably, and carry out their routine activities without hesitation. The healing process is safe and smooth. However, it can take around six months for full recovery, provided you are following your surgeon’s instructions, including wearing protective eyewear.
Wearing Sunglasses after LASIK
After the surgery, you must keep your eyes protected and in the dark for at least 24 hours. The tissues that are healing must be protected from post-op damage. You will be given protective goggles right after the procedure. Wearing sunglasses reduces eye strain and keeps you from rubbing the eyes. No glasses means the LASIK flap can be damaged, or you can have a hazy view. Make sure your chosen sunglasses aren’t just comfortable to wear but also suit your style, or you might wear them less often than you should.
The next question is, “How long should I wear sunglasses after LASIK?” Wear them for at least in the first 24 hours and continue for a week, unless your ophthalmologist gives you different instructions. If possible, stretch the timeframe to at least a month. Every time you go outside, even if it isn’t sunny, put your shades on. When indoors, wear them to avoid glare and bright lights. There’s nothing wrong with wearing them while you watch TV or work on your computer or look at your phone. Not taking proper care can cause irritation, infection, scarring, and other complications, slowing your recovery. You can stop wearing your sunglasses when your eye surgeon gives you the green light. Until then, sunglasses will help block out the damaging rays.
Which Sunglasses to Choose
When choosing your sunglasses, there are a few things to consider. Generally, these must fully cover your eyes, including your peripheral vision. They must fit well without exerting pressure, as you will be wearing them for weeks. These shouldn’t be too tight or loose and offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. Additionally, polarized lenses that minimize glare, especially near snow and water, and reduce light and contrast sensitivity are a good, but often, more expensive option.
Wearing sunglasses after LASIK can protect your eyes from bright lights, UV rays, injury, and environmental irritants. You don’t necessarily have to spend a lot on these glasses; you just need a durable pair that does the job. Buy from a reputable brand, make sure they have the necessary UV coating, and confirm that they are comfortable and look great! After that, look forward to a smooth and successful healing!
In fact, wearing sunglasses should be a lifelong habit. It can be an investment in your ocular health and style. The rays from the sun can be quite damaging to the eyes. Direct and prolonged exposure can lead to eye-related ailments like photokeratitis and pterygium. Harsh UV light can also cause early cataracts and macular degeneration. There is no reason why wearing sunglasses shouldn’t be prioritized. It is also always safe to go in for regular follow-ups to keep track of your eye health, not just after LASIK eye surgery but even at other times. Eye exams can help monitor any signs of a problem, allowing your Atlanta eye doctor to recommend the right solutions before your issue worsens.
Get Expert Help Today
Wearing sunglasses after LASIK might seem inconvenient, but it’ll protect your eyes for years to come. The LASIK procedure is already an investment in your eye health; do not let the time, money, and efforts go in vain. If you are interested in LASIK or choosing your sunglasses, contact Woodhams Eye Clinic at 770-394-4000 or book online for a consultation. We can offer a personalized experience at our state-of-the-art office that’s equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and advanced technologies. Schedule an appointment today.