LASIK Recovery Time

LASIK RECOVERY TIME

One of the first questions patients ask when considering LASIK Eye Surgery is about the recovery time. LASIK recovery time can vary from person to person and highly depends on some factors, such as the severity of the prescription. A minor prescription can take a shorter period of time, while a major prescription can bring a longer healing time.


Although LASIK can significantly improve vision within 24 hours, patients can expect a period of LASIK surgery recovery time. The following provides a post-op LASIK healing timeline that can help answer some of your questions and concerns about the procedure.

Austin LASIK Eye Surgery Recovery Time

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Once prepped for surgery, the LASIK procedure often takes less than 15 minutes to complete. After completion, patients can take a brief rest and recoup while in observation before heading home. Since we administer sedation prior to the procedure, the office requires a trusted driver to drive the patient home to rest for the remainder of the day.


During the first few hours post-op, patients can experience blurriness and possibly burning or stinging. This is completely normal and no need for alarm. While many enjoy the rest and relaxation at home after surgery, patients wonder how soon after LASIK surgery can you drive. Within 24 hours, you may drive and return to the office for a follow-up exam.

One Week After Surgery

Following LASIK Eye Surgery, avoid strenuous exercise for a minimum of one week. This can add extra strain on the eyes, create ocular pain, or move the LASIK flap. All of this can affect healing and bring about a longer recovery time.


Two Weeks After Surgery


Continued protection is essential for two weeks after surgery. A protective shield while sleeping can help avoid serious damage from accidental eye rubbing during sleep. Wear the protective shields anytime you take a snooze, including cat naps. 


And while you hoped wearing glasses was a thing of the past, the use of protective glasses during the day can help ensure an optimum healing process and full recovery. Wear dark sunglasses outdoors and always keep a pair of protective specs on hand. A common complaint after the LASIK procedure is burning or itching. The natural reflex tells us to rub or scratch to relieve the itch, but after LASIK, the cornea of the eyes is incredibly vulnerable and any kind of touch to the eye can injure the surgical site. 


And speaking of rubbing the eyes, avoid rubbing the eye area for two months after surgery. When necessary, you can apply a light, gentle touch with little to no problem. Ideally, though, the best practice is to avoid rubbing the eyes after LASIK Eye Surgery.


State-of-the-Art LASIK Eye Surgery in Austin, Texas

To learn more about this life-changing procedure and find out if LASIK is the right choice for your vision problems, get in touch with the team of doctors at Restivo Laser Vision. Board certified and fellowship trained, the medical team at Restivo provides Austin and surrounding areas with premier, full-service eye care and surgical procedures. See how Restivo Laser Vision can help you.


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