Your new vision, the importance of continuing to care for your eye health, and the impact that aging may still have on your vision.

Laser Vision Correction has revolutionised the way in which those who are suitable for this lifestyle enhancing procedure can see the world.

With advancements in this technology, more and more people can find a solution tailored to their visual goals, freeing them from the constraints of glasses and contact lenses.

For those who decide to make this investment, it begins a new chapter in their lifestyle and visual ability.

However, it is important to understand that after surgery your eyes will need time to heal, that your eyes still need to be regularly checked and cared for, and that as we age visual ability will still change.

In this blog, we’ll identify the effects that laser vision correction may have on your vision directly after surgery, as well as provide guidance on best-practices to help you maintain optimal eye health post-procedure.

Things to consider post-procedure

Dry Eyes:

One of the most common side effects post Laser Vision Correction is temporary dry eyes.

This is due to the surgery disrupting the normal tear film, leading to a feeling of dryness and discomfort for some people.

To alleviate this, patients are advised to use preservative-free artificial eye drops to keep their eyes lubricated and comfortable while they heal and settle. As the drops are preservative free there is no danger of overuse and can be used frequently and for as long as needed, and keeping the eyes hydrated will aid in the healing process.

Light Sensitivity

Sensitivity to light, also known as photophobia, is another common side effect that can impact some patients in the initial days following laser vision correction.

Wearing sunglasses, especially when outdoors, can help protect the eyes from excessive light and reduce any discomfort while the eyes adjust during this period.

As the eyes heal and adjust this sensitivity will diminish.

Halos and Glare

In the days, weeks and sometimes moths after the procedure, some individuals may experience halos or glare around bright lights, particularly at night. This may make driving, or similar night-time activities more challenging.

This is usually temporary and stops occurring as the eyes heal. In addition over time the brain adapts to the changes in vision, and the halos and glare fades completely.

Blurred Vision

It is normal and expected that some patients will experience blurred vision during the first few days after the surgery as the cornea heals. The eyes may also feel a little scratchy or gritty. This is normal and similar to other surgical procedures, is managed with the application of medicated eye drops.

It is important to follow your post-procedure instructions, making sure you administer the prescribed eye drops when directed and to avoid rubbing your eyes. This will see the eyes quickly heal and recover, and the blurring turn to clear vision without glasses or contacts lenses!

Under or over correction of the refractive error

The technology used to design each individual patient’s unique Laser Vision Correction solution continues to get more and more advanced. However, approximately 1% of patients worldwide will experience an over or under correction of the refractive error and not be happy with their vision once healing has finished.

In simple terms an over or under correction means that the focusing power of the eye is slightly outside the target range after the procedure. It is uncommon and can almost always be corrected with an enhancement procedure to further refine the shape of your cornea. If required Adelaide Eye & Laser Centre provide this complimentary within five years of your initial surgery.

Maintaining Eye Health Post-Laser Vision Correction

Just because you now have clear vision does not mean that you should forget about your eye health. Eyes, like all other parts of your physical self, need to be monitored and checked on a regular basis to ensure they remain healthy and that any issues are caught early.

At Adelaide Eye & Laser Centre we recommend the below to keep on track and ensure that you see clearly well into old age!

 Regular Optometrist Visits

It is critical to continue regular eye check-ups with your optometrist. Routine visits to this first step in eye health can ensure that any issues are detected early on and provide prompt intervention if needed.

Optometrists are your first point of call for eye health and will know when to refer you to an ophthalmologist if needed.

Even after successful laser vision correction, or any other ophthalmic surgery, eyes can undergo age-related changes, and regular check-ups help monitor these changes.

Wear protective eyewear

While laser vision correction significantly reduces dependence on glasses and contact lenses, it’s essential to protect the eyes from potential hazards.

Whether engaging in sports or working in environments with dust or debris, wearing protective eyewear and UV rated sunglasses can prevent injuries and sun exposure while helping to maintain the long-term success of the surgery.

Hydrate and Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Staying well-hydrated contributes to overall eye health. Proper hydration ensures that the body produces an adequate amount of tears, promoting comfort and reducing the risk of dry eyes.

Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, can positively impact eye health.

As your eyes age they may still change

Laser Vision Correction is a permanent improvement in your vision. However, like all parts of our physical being, as we age our eyes and therefore vision can change even after having this procedure.

Many people invest in laser in their early 20’s or 30’s when the natural lens in their eye is flexible and the muscles young and strong. When they enter their 40’s and 50’s this same lens, and the muscles that support it, start to become less flexible and a little bit tired. This is a normal aging process called presbyopia (read our blog on this here).

When presbyopia becomes present you may start to require glasses for near tasks like reading or computer work. There are options to overcome presbyopia which include blended vision and refractive lens exchange and depending on your individual eye health and personal visual goals, you may consider these with your chosen ophthalmologist.

Conclusion

Life after Laser Vision Correction brings lifestyle freedom from glasses and contact lenses. While recovery is fast and success rates are very high, a healing process will take place and it’s important to understand what this might bring.

Once healing has finished it remains important to look after your eyes to ensure optimal eye health is enjoyed.

Our specialists

Adelaide Eye & Laser Centre has a number of leading specialist ophthalmologists with extensive experience and expertise in laser vision correction. In consultation with them, you will be guided through your individually tailored options, and how to best achieve your unique visual goals.

Find out more?

If you are interested in finding out more about Laser Vision Correction do not hesitate to contact a member of our friendly customer service team.

You are also able to understand your suitability for laser by completing our Online Eye Suitability Test here.

Or you can book a complimentary consultation today – just click here!