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.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Siri Nallapu MBBS
Last updated on 13th Jan, 2026
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
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
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice
Dr Apurva Thombre
Ophthalmologist
10 Years • MBBS MS DNB Opthalmology
Pune
Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune
Dr Aishwarya M Angadi
Ophthalmologist
5 Years • MBBS, MS
Pune
Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune
Dr Kanse Vaibhav
Ophthalmologist
10 Years • MBBS, DO, MS, DNB
Pune
Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune
Dr. Sridhar Annam
Ophthalmologist
15 Years • MBBS, DO, MS (Opthal)
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Ashu Agarwal
Ophthalmologist
24 Years • MBBS, MS
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Consult Top Eye Specialists
Dr Apurva Thombre
Ophthalmologist
10 Years • MBBS MS DNB Opthalmology
Pune
Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune
Dr Aishwarya M Angadi
Ophthalmologist
5 Years • MBBS, MS
Pune
Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune
Dr Kanse Vaibhav
Ophthalmologist
10 Years • MBBS, DO, MS, DNB
Pune
Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune
Dr. Sridhar Annam
Ophthalmologist
15 Years • MBBS, DO, MS (Opthal)
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Ashu Agarwal
Ophthalmologist
24 Years • MBBS, MS
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
