Chicago Cornea Consultants™, Ltd. is considered one of the leading laser eye surgery centers. The experience and skill of our surgeons leads to overwhelmingly successful laser eye surgery results. While the skill of the surgeon is a large factor in determining the outcome of surgery, recovery is also very important to the ultimate success of any LASIK procedure. Prior to surgery, our doctors will provide patients with explicit post-operative care instructions. Each of these instructions will help ensure that the eye heals properly and results in optimal vision correction. For our Chicago patients, LASIK goggles are an important part of the recovery process. These goggles protect the eyes from damage while the surgical flap heals.
How Long Are LASIK Goggles Worn?
Immediately following the procedure, patients will be provided with LASIK goggles. These goggles fit over the eyes much like a regular pair of glasses or sunglasses and act as a barrier or shield while still allowing patients to see. We typically recommend that patients wear these goggles for the remainder of the day following surgery. However, patients should wear these protective goggles while sleeping for at least the first night of recovery. For patients who participate in contact sports, it is recommended to wear an athletic version of protective goggles during any sporting activity for several months after the LASIK procedure.
Why Do I Need LASIK Goggles?
LASIK goggles are very important to a patient’s recovery from surgery. During the LASIK procedure, a small flap is made on the eye so that our surgeons can make appropriate alterations to the shape of the cornea. Once this flap is closed, we do not use any sutures to hold the flap in place. The eye should heal on its own. However, in order to ensure that the flap does not shift before it heals, the eye must be protected.
During LASIK recovery, it is common (especially on the day of surgery) for the eyes to feel dry and scratchy or for patients to experience a burning sensation. It is a natural instinct to want to rub the eyes when this feeling occurs. LASIK goggles prevent patients from rubbing the eyes during this important stage of recovery when the flap could become easily damaged. It is especially important to wear the LASIK goggles at night when a patient is unaware of his/her actions and may inadvertently touch, rub, or scratch the eyes. The LASIK goggles shield the eyes so that they cannot be poked, scratched, or injured. If the flap did become damaged, it is likely that the patient would require additional surgical treatment to repair the eye.
Schedule an Appointment
At Chicago Cornea Consultants™, Ltd. we know the inconvenience that is experienced by patients with vision impairment. Our laser vision services are aimed towards restoring eye health and vision in order to improve the quality of living for our patients. If you are interested in learning more about our laser vision correction procedures, schedule an appointment with one of our experienced surgeons at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you!
