Dr. Andrew Holzman has helped countless people throughout the Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC area with their eye care needs. One of the most popular options for vision correction is LASIK, a laser eye surgery procedure that addresses refractive errors, which you may know better by myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
We receive many questions from patients about the healing and recovery process of LASIK. One part of it involves the use of LASIK goggles, which we’d like to cover the basics of below.
What are LASIK goggles?
Also known as LASIK eye shields, LASIK goggles are a kind of protective eye wear that is worn after a patient undergoes refractive surgery. The goggles are intended to prevent accidental touching, rubbing, or contact of any kind with the eye as it’s healing.
Why LASIK Goggles Are Essential for Post-Op Recovery
To understand why LASIK goggles are so important, it’s important to consider the nature of LASIK surgery itself. During LASIK, a small flap is created in the topmost portion of the cornea, which is known as the epithelium. This flap allows surgeons to use a laser to reshape the cornea and improve the passage of light through the eye.
In the first days after LASIK, the corneal flap can be affected by various kinds of contact, resulting in poor healing and impaired vision. It’s crucial that the corneal flap heal properly without being disturbed, which is why the LASIK goggles are worn.
Are LASIK goggles uncomfortable?
No.
While LASIK goggles may look a little bit funny, they are actually quite comfortable and are able to be worn while the patient sleeps. They will not pinch around the eyes or irritate the skin. They are simply there as a precaution and are not particularly obtrusive, all things considered.
The Benefits of LASIK Goggles
The primary benefit of wearing LASIK goggles is that they prevent patients from accidentally touching, rubbing, or experiencing any kind of accidental contact with the eyes during the crucial early healing period after LASIK.
LASIK Goggle Instructions for the First Day
Patients are instructed to wear their LASIK goggles all day and all night on the first day after surgery. This is especially important at night since accidental scratching or rubbing of the eyes may occur when the patient is at rest. Again, this is all purely a precaution and a means to ensure healing without disturbing the corneal flap.
LASIK Goggle Instructions for Subsequent Days
In the days after the first 24 hours, patients will be instructed to wear their LASIK goggles at night. This will usually go on for the next four or five days, at which point the patient will have returned to the practice for a follow-up visit. Usually patients will not have to wear their LASIK goggles by the end of the week.
Follow All Other Post-Operative Instructions Closely
LASIK goggles are only part of the equation when it comes to proper healing. Patients are also instructed to wear sunglasses to protect their eyes from the sun and to use liquid tears in order to address irritation and attacks of dry eye. Full post-operative instructions can be provided to patients during the consultation process.
Learn More About Advanced Eye Care Treatments
For more information about all of your options for vision correction and excellent eye health, it’s important that you contact our laser eye care center today. Dr. Holzman and his entire team looks forward to your visit and helping you achieve the best possible results when it comes to laser vision correction.
