apollo

LASIK Eye Surgery Post-Op Care

Discover essential post-operative care tips after LASIK eye surgery. Learn what to expect, how to protect your eyes, and when to seek medical attention.

reviewerImg

Written by

Last updated on 4th Jul, 2025

Introduction

Undergoing LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) eye surgery is a life-changing experience that can free you from glasses or contact lenses. However, proper post-operative care is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery and maintain the best possible vision.

If you’ve recently had LASIK or are planning to get it, this guide will help you understand what to expect and how to take care of your eyes after the procedure.

What to Expect After LASIK Surgery

Right after LASIK, your vision may be blurry or hazy, and you might experience:

  • Mild burning or itching sensation

  • Tearing or watery eyes

  • Light sensitivity

  • Dryness, which is common in the first few weeks

These symptoms are normal and usually improve within 24 to 48 hours. Full recovery can take a few weeks, but most patients notice significant improvement within a few days.

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice

Dr. Anupa Gulati, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Anupa Gulati

Ophthalmologist

25 Years • MBBS, Dip in Ophthalmology

New Delhi

Visitech Eye Centre Green Park, New Delhi

1200

1200

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr. Anchal Gupta, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Anchal Gupta

Ophthalmologist

10 Years • MBBS,MS ( Opthamology )

New Delhi

NETRAM EYE FOUNDATION, New Delhi

1000

No Booking Fees

Essential Post-Op Care Tips

Proper care in the first few days and weeks after LASIK can make a significant difference in your healing and visual outcome.

1. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions

Your surgeon will prescribe medicated eye drops to prevent infection and keep your eyes moist. Use them exactly as directed.

2. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

Rubbing can dislodge the corneal flap, leading to complications. If your eyes feel itchy, use preservative-free artificial tears instead.

3. Wear Protective Eyewear

  • Sunglasses: Wear them during the day to protect your eyes from sunlight, wind, and dust.

  • Eye shields: Use them while sleeping for the first few nights to prevent accidental rubbing.

4. Keep Water Away from Your Eyes

For the first week:

  • Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and saunas

  • Take extra care while showering—do not let water spray directly onto your face

  • Skip eye makeup and creams for at least a week

5. Limit Screen Time

Staring at screens can cause eye strain and dryness. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

6. Avoid Strenuous Activities

For at least 1-2 weeks, avoid:

  • Heavy exercise

  • Contact sports

  • Dusty or smoky environments

7. Stay Hydrated & Eat Healthy

  • Drink plenty of water to prevent dry eyes.

  • Include foods rich in vitamin A, like carrots and spinach, and omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, to support eye health.

When to Call Your Doctor?

While complications are rare, contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

  • Severe or persistent pain

  • Sudden vision loss

  • Excessive redness or discharge

  • Flashes of light or floaters

Long-Term Care After LASIK

Even after full recovery:

  • Attend all follow-up visits, which are usually scheduled at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months post-surgery.

  • Use lubricating eye drops as needed, especially in dry climates.

  • Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect from UV damage.

  • Get regular eye check-ups to monitor eye health.

Final Thoughts

LASIK surgery offers lasting freedom from glasses or contacts, but recovery doesn’t happen overnight. With the right post-operative care, you can ensure the best outcome and enjoy your improved vision for years to come.

If you have any concerns or need a post-LASIK check-up, you can easily book an appointment with an eye specialist on Apollo 24|7.

Consult Top Eye Specialists

Dr. Anupa Gulati, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Anupa Gulati

Ophthalmologist

25 Years • MBBS, Dip in Ophthalmology

New Delhi

Visitech Eye Centre Green Park, New Delhi

1200

1200

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr. Anchal Gupta, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Anchal Gupta

Ophthalmologist

10 Years • MBBS,MS ( Opthamology )

New Delhi

NETRAM EYE FOUNDATION, New Delhi

1000

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice

Dr. Anupa Gulati, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Anupa Gulati

Ophthalmologist

25 Years • MBBS, Dip in Ophthalmology

New Delhi

Visitech Eye Centre Green Park, New Delhi

1200

1200

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr. Kakarla Roopa, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Kakarla Roopa

Ophthalmologist

3 Years • MBBS MS Ophthalmology

Tirupati

Anna Gowri Hospital, Tirupati

300

300

No Booking Fees

Dr. Anchal Gupta, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Anchal Gupta

Ophthalmologist

10 Years • MBBS,MS ( Opthamology )

New Delhi

NETRAM EYE FOUNDATION, New Delhi

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Sahiti Salguti, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Sahiti Salguti

Ophthalmologist

10 Years • MBBS,MS Ophthalmology

Hyderabad

Yeshass Nethralaya eye hospital, Hyderabad

750

600

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Eye Specialists

Dr. Anupa Gulati, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Anupa Gulati

Ophthalmologist

25 Years • MBBS, Dip in Ophthalmology

New Delhi

Visitech Eye Centre Green Park, New Delhi

1200

1200

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr. Kakarla Roopa, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Kakarla Roopa

Ophthalmologist

3 Years • MBBS MS Ophthalmology

Tirupati

Anna Gowri Hospital, Tirupati

300

300

No Booking Fees

Dr. Anchal Gupta, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Anchal Gupta

Ophthalmologist

10 Years • MBBS,MS ( Opthamology )

New Delhi

NETRAM EYE FOUNDATION, New Delhi

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Sahiti Salguti, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Sahiti Salguti

Ophthalmologist

10 Years • MBBS,MS Ophthalmology

Hyderabad

Yeshass Nethralaya eye hospital, Hyderabad

750

600

No Booking Fees

More articles from Eye Problem