• Immediately following the procedure your vision will be very blurred or hazy "like looking through water or smoke".  This typically clears in about 3 hours.
• The numbing drops will wear off in about one half hour and at this time you may experience burning, soreness, watering or tearing, light sensitivity and the feeling of something in your eye.  These symptoms typically last ~3 hours and are relieved by eye-drops in the post-op kit.
• The whites of your eyes may look red, swollen or bloodshot.  This will clear in a few days and is entirely normal.
• It is important not to rub your eyes in the first few days as doing so may dislodge the flap.
• The first night you will sleep on your back wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes and you must be careful not put your face in the pillow.

The Day After Surgery:

• The day after the procedure your vision will still be slightly blurred "like looking through a dirty contact lens".  You will see well enough to drive a car and be able to drive yourself to your first post-operative visit.
• It will take 3 months for your cornea to heal and your vision to stabilize.  During this period of time it is normal for your vision to fluctuate.  Objects may not appear sharp and it is normal to experience mild glare and halos at night. These vision fluctuations are temporary.
• You will be given antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to be used during the first week following your treatment.
• For the first three months, all patients experience varying degrees of dry eye symptoms following laser vision correction.  Using artificial tears as often as necessary will relieve these symptoms.

What To Avoid:

• To prevent infection avoid swimming or gardening for at least 1 week.
• Avoid eye makeup (eye liner, mascara) for at least 1 week.
• Avoid strenuous activity for the first week because you may inadvertently rub your eyes should you perspire).
• Avoid contact sports for the first month and always wear protective eyewear.