The recommended nap duration after LASIK surgery is 2 to 4 hours. This helps your eyes begin the healing process while minimising discomfort and the urge to rub them.
LASIK, or laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, is a popular procedure that corrects vision issues like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Once the surgery is complete, your post-operative care is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery. A short nap soon after surgery plays an essential role in this process, providing both rest and protection for your eyes. Below, we’ll explore why napping is important, how long you should nap, and tips to ensure a successful recovery.
Why Napping After LASIK Matters?
Napping immediately after LASIK isn’t just about catching some sleep. It’s an important step to protect your eyes and facilitate early healing. Here’s how:
- Minimises discomfort and irritation: After LASIK, you may experience mild itching, burning, or tearing in your eyes. A nap allows your eyes to rest, reducing exposure to irritants and alleviating discomfort.
- Prevents involuntary touching of your eyes: The temptation to rub your eyes can be strong, especially because of the irritation. Sleeping prevents you from accidentally interfering with the corneal flap created during the surgery.
- Speeds up healing: Resting your eyes supports the early healing process by allowing the corneal flap to begin stabilising without external strain or interference.
A nap right after surgery is not just a recommendation; it’s highly encouraged by ophthalmologists for the best recovery outcomes.
How Long Should You Nap After LASIK?
The ideal nap duration is typically 2 to 4 hours immediately after your procedure. Why this specific timeframe?
- Helps you bypass discomfort:
The protective eye shield given to you post-surgery does its job, but mild irritation can persist during the first few hours. Napping through this period helps you avoid feeling these temporary side effects.
- Supports early tissue healing:
While the body needs several weeks for full recovery, the most significant early healing occurs within the first 24 hours. Resting for a few hours after surgery gives your cornea a head start.
- Fits within your doctor’s post-op advice:
Most LASIK surgeons recommend resting for at least a couple of hours. If napping feels difficult for you, consider lying down in a dark, quiet room with your eyes closed.
Important note: While a 2 to 4-hour nap is beneficial, excessively long naps may interfere with your nighttime sleep. It’s best to balance this rest period with maintaining a normal sleep schedule for optimal healing.
Tips for a Successful Nap After LASIK
The success of your recovery nap depends on creating the right conditions for rest. Here’s how you can ensure a productive snooze:
1. Use Your Protective Eye Shields
Your doctor will provide you with plastic or breathable eye shields after surgery. These shields are designed to:
- Prevent accidental rubbing.
- Protect your eyes from irritation caused by air currents, dust, or light.
- Always wear these shields while napping or sleeping for the first week after surgery.
2. Choose a Dark, Quiet Environment
Find a comfortable spot with minimal distractions. Darkness reduces eye strain, while a quiet atmosphere ensures you remain undisturbed. If needed, use blackout curtains to create a dark environment. Avoid using sleep masks during the first week after surgery, unless your doctor specifically approves them, as pressure on the eyes can interfere with healing.
3. Wear Comfortable Clothing
Being physically comfortable aids relaxation. Choose soft, loose-fitting clothing to help you sleep peacefully.
4. Avoid Screen Exposure Before Napping
Avoid looking at your phone, TV, or computer screens right after LASIK. The blue light emitted from screens can irritate your eyes and make it harder to nap.
5. Consider Eye Drops
Your doctor will likely give you medicated eye drops to use after the procedure. Applying these drops before your nap will help hydrate and soothe your eyes.
6. Relax with White Noise or Relaxation Music
If noise is a concern, try playing soft white noise or calming music in the background. This can help block external disturbances and make it easier for you to fall asleep.
What to Do After Your Nap?
Once you’ve rested, there are a few simple guidelines to follow to continue your recovery:
- Use Prescription Eye Drops Regularly:
These drops help in preventing infections, alleviating dryness, and promoting healing. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
- Avoid Straining Your Eyes:
Avoid reading, watching TV, or using electronic devices for the rest of the day.
- Hydrate and Eat Light:
Staying hydrated is important for overall recovery. Stick to light meals to avoid feeling sluggish.
- Wear Sunglasses Outdoors:
Your eyes may be sensitive to light for several days. Sunglasses will shield your eyes from UV rays and reduce discomfort caused by brightness.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes:
It’s natural to feel an urge to touch or rub your eyes due to irritation or dryness. Resist it, as rubbing can harm the delicate corneal flap.
Post-Nap Milestones to Monitor
Your recovery extends beyond that initial nap. Remember the following timelines:
- First 24 Hours:
Most patients notice improved vision within the first 24 hours, although some may experience temporary blurriness, glare, or halos—especially at night.
- 1 Week:
By one week, symptoms such as mild discomfort and light sensitivity often improve, though dryness may continue for several weeks. A follow-up exam at this stage helps ensure healing is on track.
- 1 Month and Beyond:
By one month, most patients experience significantly stabilised vision, with many achieving 20/20 or better. However, final results can continue to refine over the following weeks.
Final Thoughts on Napping Post-LASIK
A 2 to 4-hour nap after LASIK is more than a suggestion; it’s a proven way to jumpstart the healing process. Resting your eyes not only minimises discomfort but also prevents potentially harmful actions such as rubbing your eyes. By following your doctor’s advice and creating the right conditions for your nap, you can enjoy a smoother, quicker recovery and begin experiencing the world through crystal-clear vision.
If you’re preparing for LASIK or have recently undergone the procedure, follow these tips to maximise your recovery. Give your eyes the rest they need, starting with a solid nap.
Common Questions About Napping After LASIK
Can I skip the nap if I don’t feel sleepy?
Even if you don’t feel particularly tired, it’s essential to rest your eyes for several hours. If you can’t fall asleep, lie down in a dark room and keep your eyes closed. The goal is to allow your eyes to heal without exposing them to unnecessary light or strain.
Can I nap without my protective eye shields?
No, always wear the shields when napping during the first few nights after surgery. The shields prevent accidental rubbing, which could disrupt the corneal flap and delay healing.
Will the nap completely eliminate discomfort?
The nap will help alleviate early discomfort, but you may still feel mild irritation or sensitivity once you wake up. This is normal and will improve within a day or two as your eyes continue to heal.
What if I wake up before 2 hours?
It’s fine to wake up earlier, but make sure you’ve given your eyes enough rest. If needed, stay in a dark room with your eyes closed for a little longer.
