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Eye drops schedule after LASIK, SMILE, LASEK and ICL

Which eye drops will I use after LASIK?

Usually three: an antibiotic to prevent infection, a steroid (or other anti-inflammatory) to control inflammation, and preservative-free artificial tears for dryness. The AAO describes them simply as special eye drops to reduce dryness and help the eye heal.

Brand names differ between countries and clinics, and Korean clinics often hand out a printed schedule in English with colour-coded bottles. Keep that sheet: it is the instruction that counts, and it is useful if a doctor at home needs to know what you were given.

What does a typical drop schedule look like?

This is an example of a common pattern after uncomplicated LASIK, not a prescription. Your clinic's schedule always takes priority.

Why the antibiotic matters: in a study of 204,586 LASIK eyes, infection was rare (about 0.035% of procedures), but 62.5% of cases began within the first 7 days, which is the window the antibiotic covers.

How long do I need drops after each procedure?

Surface procedures need the longest steroid course; LASIK and SMILE the shortest.

Can I buy extra eye drops in Seoul?

Artificial tears are sold in Korean pharmacies (yakguk), often as preservative-free single-use vials, but antibiotic and steroid drops need a prescription. The simplest approach is to ask your clinic for enough of everything to finish the course at home, plus a spare bottle of each medicated drop in case one is dropped or contaminated.

Show the clinic's sheet when you buy lubricants; it avoids confusion over brand names. Do not use redness-relief drops unless your surgeon approves them, and never use leftover drops from an old prescription.

If a doctor at home needs to continue or change a medicine, they will want the generic drug name and strength, not just the Korean brand. Ask the clinic to write both on your discharge summary; getting medical records in English explains what to request.

The AAO's EyeWiki notes that PRK and LASEK patients are usually asked to use cortisone drops for up to 4 months, to help prevent visible haze. In one LASEK series, a mild cortisone course continued for up to a month. Steroid use is monitored, because long courses can raise eye pressure in some people; this is one reason follow-up visits matter.

How do I put eye drops in correctly?

• Wash your hands first.
• Tilt your head back, gently pull the lower lid down, and let one drop fall into the pocket without touching the eye or lashes with the bottle tip.
• Close your eye gently for a minute; do not squeeze or rub.
• Leave a few minutes between different drops so one does not wash out the other.
• Use medicated drops first and artificial tears last, unless your clinic says otherwise.
• Shake suspension steroid drops if the label says so.
• Throw away single-use vials after use; never share bottles.

If you find it hard to aim, lie down and rest your drop hand on your forehead, or ask a companion to help in the first days. Keep bottles capped, store them as the label says, and do not let the tip touch your fingers, lashes or the sink.

Steroid drops after PRK or LASEK are usually reduced step by step rather than stopped suddenly. Write the taper dates on the box, so you do not lose track after you fly home.

What if I miss a dose?

Use it as soon as you remember, then carry on with the schedule. Do not double up. Phone alarms help in the first week, when doses are frequent. If you run out of medicated drops early or lose a bottle while travelling, contact your clinic rather than buying a substitute.

Can I take my drops on the plane?

Yes. Keep them in your hand luggage with the clinic's prescription sheet, and use artificial tears during the flight, because cabin air is dry. See flying after LASIK and what to bring to eye surgery in Korea.

When should I worry?

Mild stinging for a moment after a drop is normal. Contact your clinic if a drop causes lasting pain, swelling of the eyelids, a rash, or if your eye becomes redder and more painful over time. The FDA advises calling your doctor immediately about new, unusual or worsening symptoms at any point. Plan follow-up for after you fly home with follow-up care after returning home. This is general information; do not start, stop or change medication without your surgeon.

Sources

• AAO – LASIK laser eye surgery
• AAO EyeWiki – Photorefractive keratectomy
• AAO EyeWiki – LASEK
• AAO EyeWiki – LASIK complications
• AAO – Large study finds post-LASIK infectious keratitis rare
• FDA – What should I expect during and after surgery?

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How long do you use eye drops after LASIK?

Medicated antibiotic and steroid drops are usually a short course, often about a week. Lubricating drops often continue for weeks to months.

Why are steroid drops used for so long after PRK or LASEK?

To help prevent corneal haze while the surface heals. AAO EyeWiki notes courses of up to 4 months after surface treatments.

How long should I wait between eye drops?

A few minutes, so the second drop does not wash out the first. Follow any specific timing on your clinic's sheet.

Can I use any artificial tears after LASIK?

Preservative-free tears are usually recommended for frequent use. Ask your clinic before switching brands, and avoid redness-relief drops.

What happens if I stop my drops early?

Stopping antibiotics or steroids early can raise the risk of infection, inflammation or, after PRK and LASEK, haze. Talk to your clinic before stopping.

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