Can you cry after LASIK?

LASIK procedures have become increasingly common for adults with vision loss. LASIK changes the structure of the eye itself to improve vision and eliminate the need for corrective lenses. What happens after LASIK, though? Can you cry, drive, or wear eye makeup? Check out these dos and don’ts to optimize your LASIK eye surgery results. 

How soon can you cry after LASIK surgery?

You can cry after LASIK. In fact, natural tears can help lubricate your eyes, which is an important aspect of the healing process.

With this in mind, it’s important not to touch your eyes when you wipe your tears away. This could shift your corneal flap and put you at risk of infection. You can pat your cheeks to absorb the tears, but don’t wipe your eyes. 

What not to do after LASIK

You’ll need someone else to drive you home after LASIK surgery, and you’ll likely want to take a few days off from work while you heal. Ideally, you should avoid computer screens for three days after surgery or reduce screen time to a bare minimum.

Do not wear eye makeup for a month after LASIK, and keep water out of your eyes for two weeks. In the shower, make sure you face away from the stream and don’t wash your hair for the first two days. 

Avoid smoke, dust, pollen, and other contaminants that may get in your eyes as they heal. If you need to flush your eyes, use artificial tears prescribed by your eye doctor. 

What to expect during LASIK recovery

After LASIK, you’ll be sent home with eye drops and protective eye gear. Wear the protective gear for the first day or two. This is the time when your eyes are most sensitive. Routinely flush your eyes with the eye drops as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use tap water to clean your eyes. 

You will likely have a follow-up appointment the day after LASIK. This is when you can get cleared to drive yourself and complete routine tasks. Some patients experience redness or blurry vision for a few days following LASIK, but this clears up quickly. 

If you have specific questions about what to do after LASIK, ask your eye doctor for personalized recommendations.