It is important not to rush into contact lenses after having laser eye surgery, it is advisable to wait for sometime so that the eyes can heal. In general, the majority of patients are usually recommended to wait at least 6 months before the corneal thickness returns to normal. But this depends on the healing rates of the individual and the type of surgery that has been conducted. You should not wear contact lenses without consulting your surgeon at The Eye Foundation.
When Contact Lenses May Be Needed After Laser Eye Surgery
If you decide to wear contact lenses after laser eye surgery, certain precautions are vital to protect your eyes and maintain optimal vision:
- Residual Refractive Errors
Spectacles may not fit properly on the eyes especially if the cornea has been reshaped. Post-surgery corneas require special lenses that are custom made and should be used in the case of post-surgery patients. - Regression of Vision Correction
The eyes are sensitive especially after taking a surgery. As much as you can avoid contact lenses, you need to ensure that you practice good hygiene when using them or even when storing them. - Keratoconus or Irregular Corneas
Do not wear contact lenses for a long time to prevent the likelihood of having an irritated eye or an infected eye. - Cosmetic Reasons
It is advisable to visit your eye specialist at The Eye Foundation for routine eye check-ups to see if the lenses are appropriate for you.
How Long Should You Wait to Wear Contact Lenses After Laser Eye Surgery?
As much as laser eye surgery is a welcome technique, one has to wait for some time before they can use contact lenses. In general, most patients are told to wait for at least 6 months for the cornea to recuperate fully. However, the exact duration of the procedure varies depending on the rate of recovery of the patient and the kind of surgery that has been done. It is recommended that you always consult your surgeon at The Eye Foundation before using contact lenses.
Precautions for Wearing Contact Lenses Post-Surgery
If you decide to wear contact lenses after laser eye surgery, certain precautions are vital to protect your eyes and maintain optimal vision:
- Use Specialized Lenses: It is impossible to wear normal lenses on the reshaped cornea because they may not be properly positioned. Post-surgery corneas should be fitted with custom made lenses as suggested.
- Maintain Strict Hygiene: One of the things that are certain is that eyes are much more sensitive after surgery. To avoid developing an eye infection, make sure you adhere to high levels of hygiene when handling and storing your lenses.
- Limit Wear Time: Do not wear contact lenses for too long because they may cause irritation or even lead to an infection.
- Regular Follow-Ups: Visit your eye specialist at The Eye Foundation for your eye check-ups to ensure that your eyes are healthy and the lenses appropriate.
Advantages of Consulting Experts at The Eye Foundation
Laser eye surgery is offered by The Eye Foundation, and our team of specialists offer complete care to patients who are undergoing or who have recently undergone the procedure. We advise patients whether they require contact lenses and assist them to get the correct fit, and we manage any problems arising from surgery.
Alternatives to Contact Lenses After Laser Eye Surgery
If contact lenses are not an ideal option, there are other ways to address vision concerns post-surgery:
- Enhancement Procedures
Further laser operations may address residual refractive errors to make patients no longer require contact lenses. - Glasses for Specific Activities
Firm or semi-firm glasses may be worn for certain purposes such as reading or at night driving if small corrections are required.
Book a Consultation
Do you need to know about laser eye surgery or its aftermath? Call us today and book an appointment with one of our helpful representatives. The Eye Foundation is here for you to help you navigate your vision journey from start to finish.
