LASIK Surgery Recovery: Immediately After LASIK Treatment

Congratulations! Now that you have completed your laser eye surgery, take these simple LASIK recovery steps so that your eyes can perform their best. After your successful laser eye surgery, have a friend drive you home and wear your sunglasses. Rest your eyes and keep them closed so that they are comfortable.

Ideally you will want to keep your eyes closed for 2 to 4 hours as part of the immediate LASIK recovery process. Thus taking a nap and wearing your clear plastic shields will assist with the recovery process. You may experience mild sensitivity for a few hours but there should be minimal discomfort. After 2-4 hours, remove the plastic shields and, as directed by your surgeon, begin using your prescribed eye drops for healing and to keep your eyes comfortable, and lubricated.

Avoid rubbing, squeezing or touching your eyes after LASIK surgery, since the surface of your eyes are still sensitive. Wear your plastic shields when sleeping and if your eyes are sensitive to light, wear your sunglasses. If your eyes become dry or irritated, use your preservative-free artificial tears to help keep your eyes comfortable.

LASIK surgeons recommend resting for the first 24 hours following your laser eye surgery. So avoid reading, computer work, strenuous activity, and television during this period.

Don’t take a shower the first day and avoid getting soap and water in your eyes for several days.

Make sure you take any prescription medicine your doctor may prescribe, as directed.

Learn about 1 Day After LASIK eye surgery.