Pre & Post-Surgery Precautions
Essential Guide for Safe Surgery
Pre-Surgery Precautions
Please follow these guidelines for accurate examination results and safe surgery. These apply to all procedures including LASIK, LASEK, and ICL.
Stop wearing soft lenses at least 1 week before surgery, hard lenses (RGP) at least 2-3 weeks before, and toric lenses 2 weeks before. The cornea must return to its natural shape from lens-induced deformation for accurate examination and surgery.
Do not use eye makeup, eye cream, lotion, or perfume on the day of surgery. Microscopic particles may increase the risk of infection during surgery. Only light basic skincare is acceptable.
Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking. Acne medication (isotretinoin), hormonal agents, immunosuppressants, and antihistamines may affect surgery, and some may need to be discontinued beforehand.
Driving is not possible after surgery. Please use public transportation or come with a companion. For LASEK, a companion is especially recommended as vision may be impaired for several days.
Get adequate sleep the night before surgery. Avoid excessive alcohol, intense exercise, and saunas. Wear comfortable clothing (hoodie, button-up shirt, etc.) on the day of surgery.
Post-Surgery Recovery Process
Day of Surgery
- Rest with eyes closed for 3-4 hours after returning home.
- Slight foreign body sensation and tearing are normal reactions.
- Use prescribed eye drops as directed.
- Never rub your eyes.
1 Day After
- Visit for follow-up examination.
- Most patients recover to 0.8-1.0 vision; daily work is possible.
- Gentle face washing with eyes closed is possible.
- Driving is possible after doctor's approval at checkup.
1 Week After
- Eye makeup is allowed.
- Light exercise (walking, stretching) is possible.
- Avoid saunas and swimming pools.
- Continue using artificial tears regularly.
1 Month After
- Most types of exercise are allowed.
- Swimming and sauna use are permitted.
- Vision enters stabilization phase.
- Attend regular check-ups.
3 Months After
- Final vision stabilization is complete.
- Glare and dry eye symptoms are mostly resolved.
- Regular check-ups at 6-month and 1-year intervals are recommended.
Important Reminders
Frequently Asked Questions
LASIK creates a corneal flap, lifts it, applies the laser, then replaces it, resulting in minimal epithelial damage and faster recovery. LASEK removes the epithelium before laser application, so there is pain and reduced vision during the 3-5 day epithelial regeneration period. However, long-term visual outcomes are excellent for both procedures.
We recommend using artificial tears for at least 3-6 months after surgery. Apply them 4-6 times daily initially, gradually reducing as directed by your doctor. If dry eye symptoms persist, longer use may be needed.
After LASIK, computer use is possible the next day but avoid prolonged sessions. After LASEK, wait 1-2 weeks. Follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds) and use artificial tears frequently.
Light walking is possible 1-2 days after surgery. Light exercise (jogging, yoga) after 1 week, and intense exercise (ball sports, swimming) after 1 month. Swimming must wait at least 1 month to prevent water contact with the eyes.