LASIK recovery: what the first week really looks like
One of the most reassuring things about LASIK is how quick the recovery usually is. Here's a realistic picture — though your surgeon's specific guidance always comes first.
The first few hours
Right after the procedure your eyes may water and feel a little gritty, and your vision can be hazy. This is normal. The best thing you can do is go home and rest your eyes — many people take a nap, and notice things look clearer when they wake.
The next day
Most patients are pleasantly surprised: vision is often dramatically clearer the morning after, and many with office jobs return to work. You'll have a simple eye-drop routine to follow, and a day-one check-up to confirm everything is healing well.
The first week
Vision continues to sharpen and stabilize. You'll typically be asked to avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, dusty environments, and eye makeup for a short period, and to keep up with your drops. Night-time glare or halos, if you notice them, usually ease over this time.
Making recovery smooth
Follow your drop schedule, protect your eyes, keep your follow-up appointments, and reach out if anything worries you. Healing is a process, and we stay with you through it — with checks at day one, one week, and one month.
Wondering if it’s right for you?
Take the 60-second candidacy quiz, or book a consultation with Dr. Mahmoud Said.
This article is educational and not a substitute for a medical consultation.