LASIK surgery offers a path to clearer vision by reshaping the cornea, but success relies heavily on diligent post-operative care. Adherence to professional instructions is paramount for minimizing the risk of complications during the healing process. Careful management of the eyes ensures the corneal tissue heals correctly and achieves the best possible long-term visual results. Understanding the specific actions and restrictions involved in this recovery phase is the first step toward a smooth outcome.
The Critical First 24 Hours
The hours immediately following the procedure are the most significant for protecting the delicate corneal tissue. Upon leaving the clinic, the primary directive is to go home and rest, often involving a long nap or simply keeping the eyes closed for several hours. This mandatory rest period helps the corneal flap settle securely into its new position and reduces the risk of accidental trauma to the eye.
You will be instructed to wear protective shields, especially while sleeping, for at least the first night, and often for the first week. These shields prevent unconscious rubbing or touching of the eyes, which could potentially dislodge the newly created corneal flap. Avoiding rubbing or pressing on the eyes at any time is necessary, as this action represents the highest risk to the early healing integrity of the cornea.
Most patients experience some degree of light sensitivity, tearing, or a foreign body sensation. These expected effects typically resolve quickly within the first day. Your surgeon will schedule your first mandatory follow-up appointment within 24 to 48 hours to examine the eye’s surface, check the flap’s position, and confirm the initial visual improvement.
Managing Post-Operative Medications and Drops
The prescribed eye drop regimen is designed to support healing and prevent infection. Typically, three types of drops are used, each serving a distinct purpose. Antibiotic drops are administered to prevent bacterial infection while the corneal surface is healing and are usually continued for about one week.
Steroid or anti-inflammatory drops manage the body’s natural response to surgery by controlling swelling and inflammation in the cornea. These drops are applied for one to two weeks and are often tapered, meaning the frequency of application is gradually reduced as the eye heals. Adherence to this specific schedule is important because stopping steroid drops too abruptly can lead to a rebound inflammatory effect.
Lubricating eye drops, often referred to as artificial tears, are important because LASIK temporarily affects the corneal nerves that regulate natural tear production. These preservative-free drops should be used frequently, potentially up to once every hour in the first few days, to combat dryness and maintain comfort. When applying any drops, wash your hands thoroughly, avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye, and wait at least five minutes between different types of medication to ensure full absorption.
Activity Limitations and Gradual Return to Routine
Resuming daily activities requires a cautious, phased approach to avoid exposing the healing eye to irritants or trauma. For the first 24 hours, avoid prolonged screen time, reading, or any task requiring intense visual focus to prevent eye strain. Most patients can safely return to driving after their first post-operative check-up, provided their vision meets the legal standard.
Water exposure is a source of contamination and must be managed carefully in the initial weeks following the procedure. You may shower the day after surgery, but keep water, soap, and shampoo out of the eyes for at least the first week. Activities involving non-sterile water, such as swimming pools, hot tubs, or lakes, should be avoided for a minimum of two weeks, and often up to one month, due to infection risk.
Light exercise, such as walking or stationary cycling, can usually be resumed after about one week, but strenuous exercise that causes excessive sweating or involves heavy lifting should be postponed for at least two weeks. This precaution helps prevent sweat from dripping into the eyes and avoids temporary increases in intraocular pressure caused by straining. Contact sports carry a significant risk of direct eye trauma, necessitating a waiting period of at least one month, and protective eyewear should be worn upon resumption.
Cosmetics and lotions pose a risk of irritation or infection. All eye makeup, including mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow, should be avoided for one to two weeks. When makeup is reintroduced, use new products to eliminate any existing bacterial contamination. Applying lotions or creams near the eye area should be done with caution to ensure no product residue enters the eye.
Recognizing Signs of Complications and Scheduling Follow-up
While complications are uncommon, recognizing specific warning signs is important for a swift response. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a sudden, sharp increase in pain, a significant decrease in vision, or a discharge from the eye that is unusual in color or consistency. These symptoms can indicate inflammation or infection, requiring timely professional intervention.
The post-operative recovery involves a sequence of mandatory check-ups that allow the surgeon to monitor healing progress. Beyond the initial 24-hour visit, follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for:
- One week
- One month
- Three months
- Six months after the procedure
Attending all scheduled visits is important, even if your vision seems perfect, to check for subtle changes in corneal health or eye pressure.
Maintaining certain long-term habits helps protect your vision correction. Wearing high-quality sunglasses outdoors is recommended to protect the eyes from ultraviolet radiation and minimize glare. If you participate in activities or sports where the eye could be struck by an object, wearing appropriate protective eyewear is a wise precaution.