I had lasik on 3/24. I don't feel my vision distance has improved since the day after surgery and it has now been 10 days PO. For example, I cannot read the license plate of the car that is 1.5 cars in front of me. I can't read highway signs until I'm right on top of them. My Dr claims that I am probably still swollen.

My question is - about how long did it take for people to see clearly at a distance and what was your prescription before surgery? I'd like to get a general idea. thanks

The vision recovery time after Lasik can vary greatly. For some it is virtually instantaneous while others have moderate vision for days to weeks.

The symptoms you describe are consistent with edema (swelling). Edema can be exacerbated by dry eyes so be sure you are on a good artificial tear lubrication routine. As the edema subsides it may not subside evenly. You may have spots that are still swollen. This can cause astigmatism that will present as faint multiple images or ghosting. Don’t be surprised if this occurs and also don’t be surprise as it dissipates with healing.

Be sure to report any sudden changes to your doctor. When you next see your doctor you may want to ask for a refraction (which is better one or two?) to determine your exact refractive state. You will also be able to see the quality of your vision with that refractive state corrected. Repeated refractions will track your progress, as does repeated Snellen visual acuity (big E chart).

Glenn Hagele
CRSQA
http://www.USAEyes.org

I am not a doctor.

Glenn, What if your vision is regressing. I mean my vision a month ago was -1.50 and now it is -2.25 although I had astigmatism on left eye .25 which is gone and 1.0 in right which is .75 now. What is the chances of having my eyes heal and get some comfort.