How Long is Recovery for LASIK Eye Surgery

When it comes to vision correction, one of the biggest things patients need to consider is recovery. LASIK eye surgery is a simple procedure that results in years of crystal-clear eyesight, but how long will it take to recover from LASIK?

Most patients will notice improvements in vision as early as the morning after. However, LASIK recovery time can typically be up to a few weeks. During that time, you’ll want to take the steps needed to make sure your eyes heal as well as possible.

To learn more about the LASIK recovery process, here are a few things you can expect after your surgery.

LASIK Recovery Time: What You Can Expect

Your eyes will start to heal as soon as the procedure is over, but the overall recovery time for LASIK is around four to six weeks.

After your surgery, your surgeon will provide you with a few things, including eye drops. Irritated, itchy, and dry eyes are quite common after LASIK, but you want to avoid rubbing them, as this could dislodge the LASIK flap. Instead, use the eye drops to alleviate any discomfort you feel during recovery.

You’ll also get special goggles to keep your eyes protected while you sleep. You should wear them for at least a week after the surgery.

Your vision may be a little blurry after the procedure is over, so you will need to have someone drive you home. Your eyes may be more sensitive to light, as well. Increased light sensitivity is common for many patients, so it’s best to have sunglasses on hand to protect your eyes from bright lights and the sun.

When you’re home, take some time to rest your eyes and make sure you go to your post-operative appointments with your eye doctor to promote proper healing and recovery.

Tips for Resuming Normal Activity After LASIK

Most patients will be able to resume day-to-day activities and go back to work within a day or two after their LASIK procedure. However, if you want to make sure your eyes heal correctly, you’ll need to take things slow and keep the following tips in mind:

Minimize Screen Time. You can watch TV and use your computer and mobile devices after LASIK, but you’ll want to limit your time in front of a screen. Looking at a screen for too long can cause dryness and eye strain which can lead to discomfort.
Wait a Few Days before Working Out. After LASIK, it’s best to wait two to three days before resuming non-strenuous exercises to reduce the risk of injury, eye strain, and irritation.
Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes. You’ll feel a bit of irritation and dryness after your procedure. To ensure comfort, use the eye drops provided by your surgeon—do not rub your eyes! Rubbing your eyes could displace the LASIK flap in your eye and cause issues with your recovery.
Go to Your Post-Op Appointments. After your LASIK procedure, you’ll need to meet with your eye doctor. Your doctor will check your eyes during these appointments to see how your eyes are healing and how your vision responded to the surgery. They’ll help you know when you can resume certain activities. More importantly, if they notice any problems, they can provide the treatment needed to keep your eyes and your vision healthy.

Schedule Your Free Consult Today

Here at OOMC, our patient’s well-being is our priority. Our dedicated team of surgeons and staff always makes an effort to create a safe and secure environment where you can easily access care comfortably and confidently.

Contact one of our centers nearest to you for further information.

Corneal Associates of New Jersey

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