LASIK Recovery Guide: What to Expect After Surgery
There are several factors to consider after LASIK treatment, including regular follow-up visits with your surgeon, following the guidelines provided, and keeping specific recovery instructions in mind. Post-LASIK care is all about how well you take care of your eyes after surgery to achieve the best possible results.
You should avoid rubbing your eyes or doing anything during the healing process that could lead to infection or disrupt recovery. To help relieve dry eyes and keep them moist, your post-LASIK treatment plan will include prescribed eye drops. To manage discomfort during the first day or two, your doctor may also prescribe pain medication.
Within 24 to 48 hours after LASIK surgery, you will need to visit your surgeon so they can examine your eyes and monitor healing and vision. Your doctor will determine if any changes are needed in your care plan. Follow-up visits will continue for at least six months to ensure proper healing.
What to Expect After LASIK: Recovery Timeline
The first 24 hours after LASIK surgery are critical for a successful recovery. During this time, it is important to avoid eye strain as much as possible. According to the American Refractive Surgery Council, most patients can resume routine daily activities within a day or two after the procedure.
The FDA recommends taking a few days off work after LASIK to allow discomfort and common visual disturbances—such as glare and halos around lights—to subside. Immediately after surgery, your vision may feel foggy, and you may experience scratching or burning sensations once the local anesthesia wears off. These symptoms usually improve within a few hours. The U.S. National Library of Medicine notes that blurred vision on the day of surgery is common but typically clears by the next day.
It is essential not to rub or bump your eyes for several days after LASIK to prevent the corneal flap from shifting and to reduce the risk of infection. Vision may stabilize within a few days, but the complete healing process generally takes three to six months.
LASIK Recovery Timeline and Care Instructions
First 6 Hours After LASIK
Avoid bright lights and keep your eyes closed as much as possible during the first six hours. Some discomfort or pain is normal during this period. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication and eye drops to keep your eyes lubricated and prevent infection.
First 24 Hours After LASIK
Minimize eye strain by avoiding activities such as watching TV, reading, or using digital screens like computers and mobile phones. You may shower after one day, but be careful to keep soap, shampoo, and water away from your eyes. You may drive if your vision feels clear enough. Be sure to attend your scheduled follow-up appointment so your surgeon can assess your recovery.
One to Two Weeks After LASIK
Light exercise can usually be resumed within a week. Continue using prescribed eye drops to prevent dryness, and wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from UV rays. Avoid using creams, lotions, or makeup around the eyes for at least one to two weeks. Swimming should also be avoided for at least two weeks, as water may contain bacteria.
One Month After LASIK
By this stage, most patients can return to more strenuous activities, including sports. Wearing protective sports goggles is recommended to help prevent eye injury.
Three to Six Months After LASIK
During this period, your eyes will continue to heal, and your vision will gradually stabilize. Patients with more severe refractive errors, such as extreme nearsightedness, may take longer to fully recover.
General LASIK Aftercare Tips
- Do not drive until your vision is clear enough to do so safely.
- Limit screen time for the first week, and avoid screens entirely for the first one to two days.
- Do not rub your eyes for at least one month.
- Wait at least one day before showering, and keep soap and water out of your eyes.
- Wear a protective eye shield at night for at least one week, or as advised by your doctor.
- Avoid hot tubs, saunas, spas, and swimming pools for several weeks.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for the first two to three days.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors for at least one month.
- Stay away from dusty or dirty environments for at least one week.
- Avoid eye makeup, lotions, and creams near the eyes for one to two weeks.
- Delay contact sports for a few weeks and wear protective goggles when you return.
- Use artificial tears regularly to prevent dry eyes.
- Follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions carefully and take all medications as prescribed.
- Attend all follow-up appointments and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
You should experience clearer vision and reduced discomfort within the first few days after surgery. Contact your surgeon if symptoms worsen or if recovery does not progress as expected.
According to the American Refractive Surgery Council, 90% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better within a few months after LASIK. Recovery is generally quick, and following your doctor’s aftercare plan will help maximize healing and visual outcomes.