The postoperative period involves the instillation of drops for a few weeks while the eye heals. The medications that are applied include Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents. The anti-inflammatory agents (chemically similar to aspirin formulated as a drop.) Recently, the trend has been to use both types of anti-inflammatory agents, as each type of drug acts through a slightly different pathway. You will be provided with a medication schedule, and a list of activities to avoid.
I do ask that patients take a one to two week hiatus from swimming, hot tubs or other activities that could but their eyes in contact with "common" water. Pools, hot tubs and other forms of common water often serve as breeding grounds for microbes which may infect an incompletely healed surgical wound. Typically patients resume most of their normal activity level within a few days, as small-incision surgery has largely eliminated the need for an extended convalescence.
Patients are seen on the day after their procedure, and usually are fully rehabilitated within a month of their treatment. Congratulations! It is time to enjoy your new and improved vision!
