LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a widely performed surgical procedure designed to correct common vision problems. Many individuals considering this surgery wonder about their vision immediately following the procedure. While LASIK can offer rapid improvements, understanding the typical visual experience and recovery timeline helps manage expectations.
Immediate Vision After Surgery
Upon completion of LASIK, patients often notice an immediate improvement in their vision. However, vision is not perfectly sharp right away and can appear hazy or blurry, similar to looking underwater. The eye’s natural healing response, including some swelling, contributes to this initial fogginess. Patients are advised to rest with their eyes closed for a few hours after returning home to minimize discomfort and promote early healing.
Vision Improvement Over Time
Vision continues to refine significantly in the days and weeks following LASIK. Most patients experience substantial improvement in clarity within the first 24 to 48 hours, often enabling them to perform non-strenuous activities. While much of the vision recovery occurs rapidly, full stabilization takes longer. It can take three to six months for the eyes to completely heal and for vision to reach its final, stable outcome. During this period, minor fluctuations in vision are common as the eye adjusts to its new shape.
Common Visual Sensations During Recovery
During recovery, patients might experience various temporary visual sensations. Dry eyes are common after LASIK, with many reporting symptoms for several weeks or months. This happens because the procedure temporarily affects corneal nerves, reducing tear production. Other common effects include glare, halos, or starbursts around lights, particularly at night or in low-light conditions. These phenomena are temporary and diminish as the eyes heal, often resolving within a few weeks to a few months.
Resuming Daily Activities
Patients receive guidance on when it is safe to resume daily activities, based on their individual healing progression. Many can return to light activities and even work within 24 to 48 hours after LASIK. Driving is permitted once vision is stable enough, often within a day or two following the procedure. Activities such as swimming or using hot tubs should be avoided for at least two to three weeks to prevent infection, and strenuous exercise might need to be postponed for a few days to a week. Limiting screen time, especially in the initial days, is also recommended to reduce eye strain and support healing.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Contact your eye care professional if you experience symptoms not typical for normal LASIK recovery. Any sudden, severe eye pain or a significant decrease in vision after initial improvement warrants immediate medical attention. Signs of infection, such as pus or thick discharge from the eye, worsening redness or swelling around the eye, or a fever, also require prompt consultation. Persistent or escalating blurry vision beyond the expected recovery timeline should also be discussed with your doctor.