Laser Eye Surgery Recovery
We ensure a smooth recovery so you can dive into your newfound freedom.
Laser Eye Surgery Recovery
Here's what to expect
Immediately After Laser Eye Surgery
The surgeon will place transparent plastic shields over your eyes to protect them while they recover. Your vision will start to improve throughout the day, however, you’ll see the most improvement when you wake up the next morning.
The local anaesthetic used by the surgeon wears off within 30 minutes of the surgery and your eyes may start to feel irritable and light sensitive. It will be difficult to keep them open and they may water for several hours afterwards. We recommend resting at home with your eyes closed.
The First Night of Eye Surgery Recovery
- Use eye drops as per doctor’s instructions.
- If it is very uncomfortable during the first night, you can put an extra set of drops in.
- If required, take an analgesic such as ibuprofen, paracetamol or aspirin.
- Rest is required on the first evening.
- It is okay to have a drink of alcohol but avoid smoky environments.
The First Few Days After Laser Eye Treatment
In the first few days after your surgery wear sunglasses to protect your eyes outside and continue the medicated drops as directed by your surgeon.
You can use single use, non-preserved lubricating drops at any time between the medicated drops if you feel your eyes are irritated or uncomfortable. Continue to use the lubricant drops after the first 2 weeks, these are also helpful when using a computer or reading.
Sleeping: To avoid inadvertent rubbing of your eyes when you are sleeping, it’s best to tape the shields on for 5 nights post surgery. You can take the shields off at home before attending your post surgery check up the next day.
Sunglasses: Your sunglasses must meet Australian Standards with 100% UV protection – polarised lenses are best. We recommend sunglasses with a wrap-around frame or are very large to block glare and wind from the sides.
Makeup: Do not use any eye makeup for 2 weeks after surgery. Avoid using makeup on the eyelids and lid margins. If you do eventually use make up it is best to use a hypoallergenic type.
Showering: It is best to keep your eyes closed when showering and washing your hair and face for one week.
Driving: Please do not drive to your follow-up appointment the next day. Your vision will be checked and the surgeon will advise you when you can drive. This may take a day or two after surgery.
Work: Most people require 2 days off work, it also depends on your occupation. You can return to work as soon as you feel comfortable with your vision. Be aware you may find you tire quickly, or cannot concentrate for as long as usual, while you are getting used to the vision changes.
Reading or Computer Work: Due to the change in your vision, this may be more difficult than normal. Please take frequent short breaks to allow your eyes to move more naturally.
The Next Few Weeks of Recovery After Surgery
Recovery time is quite fast, however this varies depending on the patient. After the initial improvements in vision, more subtle improvements can be experienced over the next few weeks to months as the eyes heal. During this healing time, it is important to keep following the aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon.
Any more questions?
Laser Surgery Recovery FAQs
Is there any pain or discomfort during recovery time?
Immediately after surgery and the weeks following, it’s normal to feel slight discomfort. This may include redness, dryness, watering and irritation around the eyes. You may also experience light sensitivity and halos in your vision which will disappear over time.
Look after your eyes post surgery
- Don’t rub your eyes. Don’t even rub your eyes gently for the first month post surgery.
- Light exercise is fine within the first week. Be careful around other people and do not rub your eyes if you get sweat in them.
- Don’t go swimming or use a spa for at least 2 weeks.
- Don’t go surfing for at least 2 weeks.
- Don’t go Scuba Diving for at least 1 month.
- Don’t do contact sports for at least 1 month.
Your surgeon will discuss all of this with you after your procedure.
If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us.
