LASIK and Travel

Because you will need to return for a follow-up visit a day or two after your LASIK procedure, you should avoid travel, and plan to rest for a few days after surgery. If you are given the OK to return to work, someone else may have to drive you for a few days. More than likely you will wear a shield until your follow up visit, a couple days later.

LASIK patients usually can't drive until a few days after their procedure. Your eyes may be itchy, irritated and possibly feel like they are burning right after surgery. While over-the-counter pain relievers will control this discomfort, if you plan to travel by car, make sure someone else does the driving.

If your vision is hazy or blurry, often a result of dry-eye, your ability to rely on what you see will be compromised. Your LASIK surgeon will give you drops that will reduce the irritation as well as help you focus.

It would be wise to do some research before you travel. Air travel is safe after LASIK; however, if you plan to fly, or travel to an area that is dry or windy, dry-eye may be worsened. Air conditioning in hotels, jets, planes, and even cars can aggravate dry-eye. Dry, irritated eyes are more easily infected, so, talk to your surgeon and make sure your travel plans are OK, and that you are prepared to accommodate climate changes.

For more information please visit the website for the Carter Eye Center in Dallas, or contact them to schedule a free consultation. Dr. Harvey Carter and his team of eye surgery specialists are proud to offer you the highest quality of care possible.