How Patients Should Use LASIK Goggles After Surgery
LASIK surgery is one of the most popular options for vision correction available today, though many people have misunderstandings about the treatment process and what is involved. Optometrists and eye care specialists can determine if LASIK or another vision correction option is right for you during a consultation.
Right now, we would like to look at LASIK in basic terms and then consider the need for special goggles to be worn after the surgery in order to ensure proper and complication-free healing.
About LASIK Surgery
LASIK is a refractive surgery procedure that is performed in order to address myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The LASIK laser carefully reshapes the cornea so that light properly passes through it and focuses on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eyes.
What are LASIK goggles?
Also known as eye shields, special goggles are worn after LASIK surgery as a protective measure. These goggles help prevent patients from making accidental contact with their eyes, such as rubbing their eyes at night while they sleep or having foreign objects accidentally come into contact with the eyes.
Are LASIK goggles necessary?
Yes, they actually are a crucial part of the healing process. During LASIK, a small flap is created in the cornea in order for the corneal reshaping to be performed. This flap is set down to heal, but it is very delicate and can easily be shifted out of position. The LASIK goggles will make sure that the eyes are given proper opportunity to heal without incidental or accidental contact that may affect the corneal flap.
Are LASIK goggles comfortable?
Even though LASIK goggles look funny, you'll be happy to know that they are quite comfortable, all things considered.
How long are LASIK goggles worn?
LASIK goggles will be worn for roughly four days, though there are different instructions to consider during the healing process.
For the first 24 hours after LASIK, the LASIK goggles should be worn at all times in order to avoid harm to the eyes. Medicated eye drops should be the only thing that comes into contact with the eyes in that first day of surgery.
In the three to four days following surgery, patients will usually only be instructed to wear their LASIK goggles at night to avoid accidental rubbing and contact. When outdoors, patients should wear sunglasses in order to protect the eyes from the harshness of the light.
Alternatives to LASIK Surgery
Though LASIK is right for many patients, it may not be the most ideal solution for you. There are many other eye care solutions to consider, including other forms of refractive surgery, traditional glasses, and contact lenses. We would be more than happy to discuss all eye care treatments in greater detail during your visit.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Eye Care Specialists
If you would like to learn more about LASIK surgery and how it may be of great benefit to you and your needs, be sure to contact our La Jolla eye care and vision correction doctors today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the very best with regard to your eye health and total wellness.
