Laser eye surgery, or LASIK, is a popular option for people with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. LASIK has been around for over 25 years, and about 96 percent of patients achieve their vision goals following the surgery.
However, some people are apprehensive when it comes to LASIK despite how minor it is. Some may even turn to drinking alcohol before the procedure as a way to calm their nerves. But is that a good idea?
In this article, we’ll discuss how alcohol consumption before and after LASIK can factor into the success and overall experience of the procedure.
Before The Surgery
Generally, it is not advised to consume alcohol the day before laser eye surgery. If you must drink, it is essential to keep it to a minimum.
Alcohol can dehydrate the eyes, which can make you uncomfortable during the initial recovery period. Moreover, it can also interfere with any eye drops or medications that you will be given during the procedure. If drinking the night before makes you overly tired or nauseous, the procedure will likely be uncomfortable for you.
This doesn’t mean that you can’t attend a social event before your laser eye surgery. However, make sure that you refrain from drinking alcohol or keep it at a minimum. Some people who are anxious before surgery tend to think that alcohol may help soothe their nerves. However, it’s side effects the next day can, as mentioned, make you feel more uncomfortable.
If you are anxious about your surgery, it is best to take a natural supplement for anxiety relief instead. Make sure to get a good night’s sleep as well, so you will feel refreshed and ready for your laser eye surgery the next day.
After The Surgery
It’s common for some people to feel they deserve liquor after a successful laser eye surgery. However, experts advise that laser eye surgery patients must avoid alcohol a week after the procedure.
Alcohol can impede the healing process, as it can dehydrate the eyes and interfere with medications.
Should you find yourself needing to attend a social gathering while you’re recovering, it’s best to avoid alcohol and not tire yourself too much. Keep in mind that you just had surgery, which means your body needs to recover. Prioritize your recovery over other things, especially in the first week following the surgery.
Aside From Alcohol…
There are other things you need to avoid after surgery. Immediately after surgery, you are not allowed to shower or bathe. You can take a shower a day after, but make sure not to get water in your eyes for two weeks after the surgery.
Additionally, you are not allowed to drive until your doctor gives you the go signal. This is because some patients experience blurred vision for a short time after the surgery.
You should avoid wearing eye make-up for two weeks after the surgery to avoid getting chemicals into your eyes. You can wear make-up on the rest of your face if you like to.
Last but not least, any water-based activities, such as swimming, must be avoided.
Conclusion
These are the things you need to know about consuming alcohol before and after your laser eye surgery. The bottom line is that it’s best to refrain from drinking alcohol until your eyes are fully recovered.
Valley Laser Eye Center is recognized as a leading eye specialist that offers cutting-edge treatment.
Disclaimer: This blog post does not replace medical advice and should not be implemented prior to consulting a fully certified medical professional.
