What if you accidentally got water in your eye after LASIK?

LASIK is a procedure that uses a laser to reshape your cornea to improve your vision. It is a widely used procedure to correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism. One of the common questions that people ask before and after LASIK is, what if they accidentally get water in their eyes after LASIK? The answer to this is not simple, as the effects can vary depending on the time, the amount, and the source of water. In this blog post, we will explore this topic and discuss what you can do to prevent or alleviate the symptoms if this happens.

Not all water is bad

Water is everywhere, and it is impossible to avoid it completely. Even after LASIK, your eyes are still susceptible to getting wet. If you are not careful, you may accidentally get water in your eye, which can cause discomfort, irritation, or infection. But before you panic, you should know that not all water is equal, and the risks and consequences can differ depending on the situation.

For instance, if you get tap water or pool water in your eye after LASIK, the risk of infection is higher than if you get bottled water or distilled water. This is because tap water and pool water can contain bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can damage your eye and cause an infection. If you get tap water or pool water in your eye, you should immediately flush your eye with clean water or saline solution and seek medical attention if you experience any discomfort or redness.

Another factor that can affect the consequences of getting water in your eye after LASIK is the timing. If you get water in your eye within the first 24 hours after LASIK, the risk of complications is higher than if you get water in your eye a few weeks or months later. This is because your eyes are more vulnerable and sensitive during the initial recovery period, and any trauma or irritation can delay the healing process and cause unwanted effects.

Avoid swimming in public pools, the beach or saunas for two weeks after LASIK

To prevent getting water in your eye after LASIK, you should follow the post-operative instructions given by your doctor, such as avoiding swimming, hot tubs, or saunas for two weeks, wearing protective glasses, and not rubbing your eyes. You should also avoid exposing your eyes to dusty or windy environments, which can cause irritation and dryness.

What to do if you get water in your eye after LASIK

If you accidentally get water in your eye after LASIK, you should first rinse your eye with clean water or saline solution. Do not use tap water, which can contain harmful bacteria or chemicals. After rinsing, you should use artificial tears or lubricating drops to soothe your eye and prevent dryness. If you experience any discomfort or redness, you should contact your doctor immediately and follow their advice.

Getting water in your eye after LASIK can be an uncomfortable experience, but it is not always a cause for alarm. The risks and consequences can vary depending on the time, amount, and source of water. To prevent the possibility of getting water in your eye after LASIK, you should follow the post-operative instructions given by your doctor and avoid exposing your eyes to dusty or windy environments. Remember, your eyes are precious, and taking good care of them can help ensure a successful LASIK surgery and optimal vision for years to come.

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