Laser Eye Surgery: Healing time, Recovery and Aftercare Tips

Laser eye surgery is a procedure that can potentially improve vision and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. But like any medical procedure, you'll need time to recover and take care of your eyes afterwards. Knowing what to expect during healing can help you get the best results and feel more at ease.

If you're thinking about laser eye surgery or have already booked your procedure, it's important to know about the recovery process. This guide will tell you everything from how to handle initial discomfort to slowly getting back to your daily activities. You'll learn why follow-up appointments matter, how to protect your eyes while they heal, and what long-term care your improved vision needs.

If you're considering laser eye surgery Adelaide, it's a good idea to discuss your options with a qualified eye surgeon. You can find more information about free suitability tests online.

Now, let's explore some important aspects of recovery after laser eye surgery.

Laser eye surgery healing time

How long it takes to heal after laser eye surgery can be different for each person, but most patients see their vision improve a lot within the first 24 to 48 hours

¹LASIK recovery time https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik.

Many patients experience a significant improvement in vision within the first 24 to 48 hours. But it's important to know that it can take several weeks to a few months for your vision to fully heal and settle.

During this time, your eyes will slowly adjust to their new way of focusing. You might notice your vision changing, especially when reading or using a computer. But don't worry. These changes are normal and usually stop as your eyes continue to heal.

It's important to be patient and follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions carefully to help maximise the potential benefits of the procedure.

Immediate post-surgery care: First 24-48 hours

The first day or two after your laser eye surgery are very important for setting up a smooth recovery. As soon as the procedure is done, you'll need someone to drive you home. Your eyes will be sensitive to light, so you must wear dark sunglasses.

Once you're home, the most important thing you can do is rest. Your eyes have just gone through a big change, and they need time to adjust and start healing. Try to keep your eyes closed as much as you can for the first few hours. This doesn't mean you have to sleep all day, but you should avoid activities that strain your eyes.

You'll probably be given protective eye shields to wear, especially while sleeping. These shields stop you from accidentally rubbing your eyes, which could interfere with the healing process. It's very important to keep these on as your surgeon tells you to.

You should expect some discomfort during this early period. Your eyes might feel itchy, gritty, or like there's something in them. They may also water more than usual or look slightly red. These symptoms are normal and should slowly get better over the next few days. Your surgeon will give you eye drops to help manage these symptoms and support the healing process.

You might notice some changes in your vision during the first few days as your eyes adjust. Your vision might be blurry or change during the first couple of days. This is completely normal and not something to worry about. Just keep in mind that your eyes are healing, and it takes time for your vision to settle.

Managing discomfort and potential side effects

While most people handle laser eye surgery well, it's normal to have some discomfort and side effects while you recover

²Laser safety https://www.lasereyesurgeryhub.co.uk/laser-eye-surgery/safety/. Knowing what to expect can help you handle these symptoms well and know when to ask for more help.

Dry eyes

One of the most common side effects after laser eye surgery is dry eyes

³LASIK aftercare https://www.verywellhealth.com/lasik-surgery-long-term-care-4847046. This happens because the procedure temporarily affects how well your eyes can make tears. You might feel a burning or gritty sensation like there's sand in your eyes.

To help with this, your surgeon will likely give you artificial tears. Use these as directed, even if your eyes don't feel particularly dry. They help keep your eyes moist, which is important for comfort and healing.

For most people, dry eye symptoms get better within a few weeks to a few months. But if you find them especially bothersome, don't hesitate to contact your eye care team. They might suggest additional treatments or change your eye drop routine.

Light sensitivity

Increased sensitivity to light is another common side effect in the days after your procedure

⁴LASIK aftercare https://www.verywellhealth.com/lasik-surgery-long-term-care-4847046. This can make bright lights uncomfortable or even painful. Sunlight, computer screens, and even indoor lighting might seem too harsh.

Wearing sunglasses when outdoors can help manage this symptom. For indoor use, you might find it helpful to adjust the brightness of your electronic devices or use softer lighting in your home.

Like dry eyes, light sensitivity typically improves over time. But if it lasts or becomes severe, it's important to let your surgeon know.

Visual disturbances

Some patients experience visual disturbances such as glare, halos around lights, or trouble seeing clearly at night. These effects are often more noticeable in low-light conditions.

While these symptoms can be frustrating, they usually improve as your eyes heal. In the meantime, be extra careful when driving at night

⁵ LASIK pros and cons https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/pros-and-cons-lasik-are-risks-worth-cost. If you're not comfortable with your night vision, it's best to avoid nighttime driving until your eyes have fully healed.

Fluctuating vision

Don't be alarmed if your vision seems to change, especially in the first few weeks after surgery. You might have days where your vision seems very clear, followed by days where it's a bit blurry. This is a normal part of the healing process as your eyes adjust to their new focusing ability.

These changes typically decrease over time, but individual experiences may vary. If you notice a sudden or significant change in your vision, however, contact your eye care provider right away.

Keep in mind, everyone's healing process is unique. While these are common side effects, you might not experience all of them, or you might find some more bothersome than others. The key is to stay in close contact with your eye care team and follow their instructions carefully.

Prescribed eye drops and medications: Usage and importance

After your laser eye surgery, you'll be given a schedule of eye drops to use. These aren't just for comfort. They play a key role in your recovery process and help prevent problems. Understanding what each drop does and how to use them correctly is essential for a smooth healing journey.

Typically, you'll be prescribed three types of eye drops: antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and lubricating drops. Antibiotic drops are used to help minimise the risk of infection, a rare but possible complication after eye surgery. Anti-inflammatory drops, often steroids, reduce swelling and help your eyes heal. Lubricating drops, also known as artificial tears, keep your eyes moist and comfortable.

Your surgeon will give you a detailed schedule for using these drops. It's important to follow this schedule exactly, even if your eyes feel fine. Set reminders on your phone if needed to make sure you don't miss a dose. Some drops need to be used more often at first and then less over time.

When applying the drops, wash your hands thoroughly first to avoid getting any bacteria in your healing eyes. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye or any other surface, as this can contaminate the drops. If you're using multiple types of drops, wait at least five minutes between each one to allow each medication to be properly absorbed.

If you miss a dose, it's best to consult with your eye care provider for guidance. Simply continue with your regular schedule. If you find you're often forgetting doses, speak with your eye care team. They might be able to suggest ways to help you stay on track.

Some individuals may experience mild discomfort, such as stinging or burning when using eye drops. This is normal and doesn't mean you're having a bad reaction. However, if you experience severe discomfort or any unusual symptoms, contact your surgeon right away.

It's essential to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding the use of prescribed eye drops, as they are important for your recovery. Stopping too early could slow down your healing or increase your risk of problems.

Protecting your eyes during the recovery period

Protecting your eyes is very important during the recovery period. Here are five essential tips to safeguard your healing eyes:

• Avoid rubbing your eyes: It's important to resist the urge to rub or touch your eyes, as this can disrupt the healing process and potentially cause problems.
• Wear protective eyewear: Use the eye shields provided by your surgeon while sleeping, and wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect against dust, debris, and harsh light.
• Steer clear of water: Keep water out of your eyes when showering or washing your face for at least a week to prevent infection.
• Skip makeup: Avoid eye makeup for at least a week after surgery to reduce the risk of irritation or infection.
• Be cautious in dusty environments: Stay away from dusty or smoky areas, and consider wearing protective glasses if you must be in such environments.

Gradual return to daily activities: Timeline and precautions

After laser eye surgery, you'll be eager to get back to your normal routine. But it's important to ease back into your activities slowly to give your eyes the best chance to heal properly. Here's a general timeline of what you can expect, but always follow your surgeon's specific instructions.

The day after surgery, you'll have a follow-up appointment to check your vision and eye health. If all looks good, you'll likely be cleared to return to light activities and work, especially if your job doesn't involve strenuous physical activity or long periods of screen time.

For the first week, it's best to avoid any activities that could expose your eyes to dust, dirt, or sweat. This means no vigorous exercise, swimming, or contact sports. When it comes to screens, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain.

After about a week, if your recovery is going well, you can usually start to do more of your normal activities. Light exercise like walking or using a stationary bike is often okay at this point. But continue to avoid activities where something could hit your eye, like ball sports.

Around the two-week mark, many people can resume most of their regular activities, including more strenuous exercise. However, swimming and contact sports are still off-limits for most people at this stage. Your surgeon will let you know when it's safe to get back in the pool or on the court.

It's worth noting that everyone's recovery is different. Some people might be able to return to all their normal activities sooner, while others might need a bit more time. The key is to listen to your body and your eye care team. If something doesn't feel right or causes discomfort, it's best to wait and ask your surgeon.

Throughout this process, continue to use your prescribed eye drops and attend all your follow-up appointments. These check-ups are important for monitoring your healing progress and addressing any concerns that might come up.

Follow-up appointments: What to expect and why they're important

Follow-up appointments are an integral part of your recovery process. These visits allow your doctor to monitor your healing and address any potential issues early on.

Your first follow-up is usually scheduled within 24 to 48 hours after surgery. During this visit, your doctor will check your vision and assess how well your eyes are healing. They may also make adjustments to your care plan based on how your eyes are responding to the surgery.

Additional follow-ups are typically scheduled at intervals over the next few months. These visits allow your doctor to monitor your progress and address any concerns that may arise.

Skipping these appointments could lead to missed signs of problems, so be sure to attend each one as scheduled. If you experience any unusual symptoms between visits, contact your doctor immediately to avoid any long-term issues.

Long-term care for your improved vision

While the immediate recovery period after laser eye surgery is relatively short, taking care of your eyes is a lifelong commitment. Here are five key tips for maintaining your improved vision in the long term:

• Regular eye exams: Schedule comprehensive eye exams annually to monitor your eye health and vision stability
• UV protection: Protecting your eyes from UV rays is important for overall eye health
• Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet can contribute to overall eye health
• Screen breaks: Practise the 20-20-20 rule when using digital devices to reduce eye strain and fatigue
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help maintain good eye moisture and overall eye health.

Lifestyle adjustments during recovery

Recovering from laser eye surgery often requires some temporary lifestyle adjustments. These changes help ensure a smooth healing process and optimal results. Let's explore some key areas where you might need to make modifications.

Managing screen time

Nowadays, reducing screen time can be challenging, but it's important for your eye health during recovery. Too much screen use can lead to eye strain and dry eyes, potentially slowing down your healing process.

For the first week after surgery, try to limit your screen time as much as possible. When you do need to use a computer, smartphone, or watch TV, take frequent breaks. The 20-20-20 rule is particularly helpful here: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.

Adjust the brightness and contrast of your screens to reduce eye strain. Consider using larger fonts on your devices to make reading easier. And don't forget to blink! We often blink less when looking at screens, which can make dry eye symptoms worse.

Exercise and physical activities

While you might be eager to get back to your workout routine, it's important to ease back into exercise slowly. Strenuous activities can increase pressure in your eyes and potentially disrupt the healing process.

For the first week, stick to light activities like gentle walking. Avoid any exercises that involve bending over or could result in sweat dripping into your eyes. Swimming and contact sports are typically off-limits for at least a month after surgery.

After the first week, you can usually start to do more moderate exercise, but always check with your surgeon first. They might give you the go-ahead for activities like cycling or using an elliptical machine. However, weightlifting and high-impact exercises should usually be avoided for at least two to three weeks.

Driving considerations

Most people can start driving again within a day or two after laser eye surgery, but this depends on how quickly your vision stabilises. Your surgeon will let you know when it's safe for you to get behind the wheel again.

Even when you're cleared to drive, take extra precautions, especially at night. You might experience glare or halos around lights, which can make nighttime driving challenging. If you're not comfortable with your night vision, it's best to avoid driving after dark until your eyes have fully healed.

Always wear sunglasses when driving during the day to protect your eyes from glare and UV rays. And if you experience any sudden changes in your vision while driving, pull over safely and contact your eye care provider.

Sleeping habits

Your sleeping habits play an important role in your recovery. For the first week or so after surgery, you'll need to wear protective eye shields while sleeping. These prevent you from accidentally rubbing your eyes during the night.

Try to sleep on your back rather than your stomach or side. This helps prevent any pressure on your eyes. If you're a side sleeper, you might find it helpful to use extra pillows to prop yourself up and reduce the temptation to roll onto your side.

Makeup and skincare

You'll need to take a break from your usual makeup and skincare routines for a while after laser eye surgery. Avoid using eye makeup, including mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow, for at least a week after your procedure. When you do start using makeup again, it's a good idea to buy new products to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria to your healing eyes.

Be careful with facial cleanser and moisturisers too. Avoid getting these products in or near your eyes for the first week or so. When washing your face, use a clean washcloth and gently pat the area around your eyes, being careful not to rub or apply pressure.

Remember, these lifestyle adjustments are temporary. As your eyes heal, you'll slowly be able to return to your normal activities. Always follow your surgeon's specific instructions, as they may have additional recommendations based on your individual case.

Final thoughts

Laser eye surgery is an option for vision correction that may help reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. The recovery process, while relatively quick, requires care and patience to ensure optimal results. By following the guidelines outlined here, you can help your eyes heal effectively and enjoy your improved vision for years to come.

If you're considering laser eye surgery, consult a qualified eye surgeon to discuss your options.

FAQs

Q: Are there any age limits for laser eye surgery? A: While there's no strict upper age limit, most surgeons recommend waiting until at least 18 years old, as vision should be stable before having the procedure. For more information about age considerations, you can check out this guide on Laser Eye Surgery Age Limit.

Q: How long does it take to see the full results of laser eye surgery? A: Many LASIK patients experience vision improvement within the first few days, though full recovery can take weeks. PRK typically requires a longer healing period, with vision stabilising over a month or more. Your surgeon will check your progress during follow-up appointments.

Q: Can I watch TV or use my phone right after laser eye surgery? A: It's best to limit screen time for the first 24-48 hours. After that, you can slowly increase screen use, but remember to take frequent breaks to avoid eye strain.

Q: When can I start exercising again after laser eye surgery? A: Light activities like walking can usually be resumed after a few days. More intense exercises should be avoided for at least a week, and contact sports for about a month. Always follow your surgeon's specific instructions.

Q: Is it normal to have dry eyes after laser eye surgery? A: Yes, dry eyes are a common side effect. Your surgeon will likely give you artificial tears to help manage this. Most people find this symptom gets better within a few weeks to months.

References

www.medicalnewstoday.com. (2022). LASIK recovery time: What to expect and more. [online] Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-to-know-about-lasik-recovery-and-its-effects (Assessed: 20 September, 2024)

‌American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2023). Laser Surgery Recovery. [online] Available at: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/laser-surgery-recovery (Assessed: 20 September, 2024)

Fagerholm, P., 2000. Wound healing after photorefractive keratectomy. Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, 26(3), pp.432-447. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0886335099004368 (Assessed: 20 September, 2024)

NHS (2022). Laser eye surgery and lens surgery. [online] nhs.uk. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/laser-eye-surgery-and-lens-surgery/ (Assessed: 20 September, 2024)

Chiche, A., Trinh, L., Saada, O., Faure, J.F., Auclin, F., Baudouin, C. and Denoyer, A., 2018. Early recovery of quality of vision and optical performance after refractive surgery: small-incision lenticule extraction versus laser in situ keratomileusis. Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, 44(9), pp.1073-1079. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0886335018305455 (Assessed: 20 September, 2024)

‌Sakimoto, T., Rosenblatt, M.I. and Azar, D.T., 2006. Laser eye surgery for refractive errors. The Lancet, 367(9520), pp.1432-1447. Available at: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS0140-6736(06)68275-5/abstract (Assessed: 20 September, 2024)