What to Expect in the First 24 Hours After LASIK

Understanding the first day after LASIK

If you are considering LASIK eye surgery, you may be wondering what happens after the procedure. Many people are surprised by how quickly recovery begins. However, it is important to remember that every person heals differently.

The first 24 hours after LASIK are an important part of the healing process. During this time, your eyes begin to recover and adjust following treatment.¹https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and comfortable.

What happens immediately after LASIK?

Leaving the clinic

Once your LASIK procedure is complete, you will spend a short time resting before going home.

Your vision may be blurry or hazy at first. This is normal during the early stages of recovery.²https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Because your vision may not be clear enough to drive, you should arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure.³https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Your surgeon will provide instructions to help support healing.

How your eyes may feel

Many people notice mild discomfort during the first few hours after LASIK.⁴https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Your eyes may feel watery, sensitive, itchy, or as though there is something in them.⁵https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik Some people describe this as a gritty feeling.

You may also notice that your eyes are more sensitive to light than usual.

These symptoms are common during the early stages of recovery, but experiences can vary from person to person.

Why rest is important

Giving your eyes time to recover

One of the most important things you can do after LASIK is rest.

Many surgeons recommend going home and sleeping or keeping your eyes closed for several hours after treatment.

Resting gives your eyes time to begin healing and may help reduce discomfort.⁶https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

The first day should be treated as a recovery day.

Limiting screen time

Phones, computers, tablets, and televisions can make your eyes work harder.⁷https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Some people find that their eyes feel dry or tired when using screens soon after LASIK.

Taking a break from screens during the first day may help your eyes feel more comfortable.

Your surgeon will provide advice based on your individual recovery.

What changes in vision can you expect?

Vision may improve quickly

Many people notice changes in their vision within the first 24 hours.

Objects may appear clearer than they did before surgery. However, vision may not be perfect straight away.⁸https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

The eyes are still healing, and vision often continues to settle over the following days and weeks.

Vision can fluctuate

It is normal for vision to change during recovery.

At times, vision may seem clearer and then slightly blurry again. This does not necessarily mean there is a problem.

Healing varies between individuals, and some fluctuations may occur as the eyes recover.

If you have concerns about your vision, you should contact your surgeon.

Using your eye drops

Following your treatment plan

After LASIK, you will usually be prescribed eye drops.

These drops help support healing and may help keep the eyes comfortable.

It is important to use your eye drops exactly as instructed by your surgeon.

Following your treatment plan carefully can help support your recovery.⁹https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Keeping your eyes comfortable

Dry eyes are common after LASIK.

Some people notice a feeling of dryness during the first day or throughout the healing process.

Lubricating eye drops may be recommended to help keep the eyes comfortable.¹⁰https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Your surgeon will explain which drops to use and how often to use them.

Activities to avoid during the first 24 hours

Avoid rubbing your eyes

Although your eyes may feel itchy or irritated, it is important not to rub them.

The cornea needs time to heal after treatment.

Rubbing your eyes may interfere with the healing process.¹¹https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Avoid getting water in your eyes

Your surgeon may recommend avoiding swimming, spas, and getting water directly into your eyes during the early stages of recovery.

This helps reduce the risk of irritation while the eyes heal.

Take it easy

Most people are encouraged to avoid strenuous activity during the first day after LASIK.

Resting and allowing your body time to recover can help support the healing process.¹²https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Your surgeon will advise you when it is safe to return to exercise and other activities.

Your first follow-up appointment

Checking your recovery

Many patients attend a follow-up appointment within the first day after LASIK.

This visit allows your surgeon to examine your eyes and monitor the early stages of healing.

It is also a chance to discuss any symptoms or concerns you may have.

Asking questions

Recovery can be different for everyone.

If there is anything you are unsure about, your follow-up appointment is a good opportunity to ask questions and learn more about your recovery process.

When should you contact your surgeon?

Knowing when to seek advice

Mild discomfort, blurry vision, and light sensitivity are common during the early stages of recovery.

However, if you experience severe pain, a sudden decrease in vision, or symptoms that concern you, it is important to contact your surgeon promptly.¹³https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Your surgical team can provide advice based on your situation.

Looking ahead after the first day

Healing continues over time

The first 24 hours are only the beginning of recovery.

Many people notice improvements in vision quite quickly, but the healing process continues beyond the first day.¹⁴https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Your vision may continue to stabilise over the following weeks.

Attending follow-up appointments and following your surgeon’s instructions are important parts of recovery.

Learn more about LASIK recovery

The first 24 hours after LASIK are often focused on rest, healing, and following your post-operative instructions. While many people notice early improvements in vision, every recovery experience is different.

Understanding what to expect can help you feel more prepared for the recovery process and give you confidence as your eyes heal.

At Envision Eye Centre, every patient receives personalised care and guidance throughout their LASIK journey, from the initial assessment through to follow-up care.

Take the next step

Take the suitability self test today to learn whether LASIK eye surgery may be suitable for your vision needs.