After LASIK Eye Surgery Activities
Wondering what you can and can’t do after LASIK surgery? This post-surgery activity guide covers safe timelines and precautions to ensure a smooth recovery and lasting results.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 24th Jun, 2025
Introduction
Undergoing LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) eye surgery is a life-changing experience for many, offering freedom from glasses and contact lenses. However, proper post-operative care is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery and long-lasting results. If you’ve recently had LASIK or are planning to, here’s a helpful guide on activities you can safely resume and those you should avoid.
Immediate Post-Surgery (First 24-48 Hours)
The first few days after LASIK are critical for healing. Your eyes may feel sensitive, dry, or slightly irritated, which is normal. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do:
Do’s:
Rest Your Eyes – Keep them closed as much as possible for the first few hours.
Use Prescribed Eye Drops – Follow your doctor’s instructions to prevent infection and dryness.
Wear Protective Eyewear – Use the provided eye shields while sleeping to avoid rubbing.
Take Short Naps – Helps your eyes recover faster.
Don’ts:
Rub Your Eyes – This can dislodge the corneal flap and delay healing.
Expose Eyes to Water – Avoid showers, swimming, or hot tubs for at least a week.
Use Screens Excessively – Limit phone, computer, and TV use for the first 24 hours.
Drive Immediately – Wait until your doctor confirms your vision is stable.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice
First Week After LASIK
Your vision will gradually improve, but you should still be cautious.
Safe Activities:
Light Work & Screen Use – You can return to office work after 2-3 days, but take frequent breaks.
Gentle Walks – Light exercise is fine, but avoid sweat dripping into your eyes.
Wear Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from sunlight and dust when outdoors.
Activities to Avoid:
Strenuous Exercise – No heavy workouts, weightlifting, or contact sports for at least a week.
Makeup & Skincare – Avoid eye makeup, creams, or lotions near the eyes for a week.
Smoking & Alcohol – These can slow down healing.
After the First Month
Most patients recover fully within 4-6 weeks. However, some precautions remain:
Do’s:
Gradually Resume Exercise – Light jogging and non-contact sports are usually safe after two weeks.
Swimming (With Goggles) – Wait at least 2-3 weeks before swimming in chlorinated water.
Follow-Up Appointments – Attend all scheduled check-ups with your eye doctor.
Don’ts:
Rubbing Eyes Vigorously – Even after healing, avoid excessive pressure.
Ignoring Dry Eyes – Use lubricating drops as needed, especially in dry or air-conditioned environments.
Long-Term Care After LASIK
To maintain optimal vision:
Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays – Wear sunglasses with UV protection.
Stay Hydrated – Helps prevent dry eyes.
Avoid Excessive Screen Strain – Follow the 20-20-20 rule, that is, every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Regular Eye Checkups – Even if your vision is perfect, yearly exams help monitor eye health.
When to Seek Medical Help
While complications are rare, contact your doctor if you experience:
Severe pain or sudden vision loss
Persistent redness or discharge
Flashing lights or floaters, as they could indicate retinal issues
Final Thoughts
LASIK offers a clear vision and freedom from corrective lenses, but your role in post-surgery care is just as vital as the procedure itself. By following these activity guidelines and listening to your eye doctor’s advice, you can help ensure a smooth recovery and enjoy long-lasting results.
Need Expert Advice? Book a consultation with an Apollo24|7 eye specialist today for personalised care and guidance.
Consult Top Eye Specialists
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice
Dr. Smriti Nagpal
Ophthalmologist
13 Years • MBBS , MS (Ophthalmology)
New Delhi
Sunshine mediclinic, New Delhi
Dr. S Venkateswaran
Ophthalmologist
35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)
Tiruvannamalai
Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai
Dr. Anupa Gulati
Ophthalmologist
25 Years • MBBS, Dip in Ophthalmology
New Delhi
Visitech Eye Centre Green Park, New Delhi
Dr. Vyankatesh Pharande
Ophthalmologist
25 Years • MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology )
Pune
PHARANDE EYE HOSPITAL & PHACO CENTER, Pune
Dr. Kakarla Roopa
Ophthalmologist
3 Years • MBBS MS Ophthalmology
Tirupati
Anna Gowri Hospital, Tirupati
Consult Top Eye Specialists
Dr. Smriti Nagpal
Ophthalmologist
13 Years • MBBS , MS (Ophthalmology)
New Delhi
Sunshine mediclinic, New Delhi
Dr. S Venkateswaran
Ophthalmologist
35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)
Tiruvannamalai
Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai
Dr. Anupa Gulati
Ophthalmologist
25 Years • MBBS, Dip in Ophthalmology
New Delhi
Visitech Eye Centre Green Park, New Delhi
Dr. Vyankatesh Pharande
Ophthalmologist
25 Years • MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology )
Pune
PHARANDE EYE HOSPITAL & PHACO CENTER, Pune
Dr. Kakarla Roopa
Ophthalmologist
3 Years • MBBS MS Ophthalmology
Tirupati
Anna Gowri Hospital, Tirupati
