Recovering well after LASEK eye surgery is just as important as the procedure itself. Proper aftercare ensures faster healing, reduces the risk of complications, and helps you enjoy clear vision sooner.
This comprehensive guide covers essential do’s and don’ts, eye drop schedules, and lifestyle tips—including when it’s safe to drive again—to support your best possible recovery.
✅ Essential Do’s and Don’ts for LASEK Aftercare
Do’s
- Use your prescribed eye drops on schedule
Typically, your surgeon will prescribe antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and lubricating drops. Follow the exact schedule to prevent infection and control inflammation. - Wear your protective bandage contact lenses as instructed
These lenses shield your healing cornea and reduce discomfort, usually for 3 to 5 days post-surgery. - Keep your eyes closed and rest frequently especially in the first 24 hours
Minimizing eye strain promotes epithelial healing. - Wear sunglasses outdoors
Your eyes will be more sensitive to UV light and bright environments during healing. - Keep your face clean but avoid rubbing your eyes
Rubbing can dislodge the epithelial flap and delay recovery.
Don’ts
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
This is the most common cause of complications post-LASEK. - Don’t wear eye makeup or creams for at least 1 week
These products can introduce bacteria or irritants. - Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas for at least 2 weeks
Water exposure increases infection risk. - Limit screen time and avoid bright screens initially
Excessive computer, smartphone, or TV use can cause eye strain and dryness. - Don’t drive until your surgeon confirms it’s safe
Blurry vision and light sensitivity can impair your ability to drive safely.
⏰ Eye Drop Schedule: What to Expect
Your surgeon will customize your eye drop regimen, but a typical schedule looks like this:
| Eye Drop Type | Frequency | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antibiotic Drops | 4–6 times daily | 1 week | Prevent infection |
| Anti-inflammatory Drops | 3–4 times daily | 2–4 weeks | Reduce swelling and pain |
| Lubricating Drops | As needed (often hourly) | 1 month or longer | Relieve dryness and irritation |
💧 Tip: Use eye drops with clean hands and avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye.
📵 Avoiding Screen Time and Eye Strain
After LASEK surgery, your eyes may feel dry and sensitive. To help them recover:
- Take frequent breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Adjust screen brightness and use blue light filters on devices.
- Use artificial tears before and after screen use to maintain moisture.
- Avoid prolonged reading or focusing on small text for at least a week.
🛑 Driving After LASEK: When Is It Safe?
Why Driving Is Restricted Initially
- Vision may be blurry or fluctuating for several days after surgery.
- Your eyes will be light-sensitive, making night driving particularly difficult.
- Medications and discomfort can impair focus and reaction times.
Typical Timeline for Driving
- Most patients can safely drive about 3 to 7 days post-surgery, once:
- Their vision is sufficiently clear and stable (often 20/40 or better).
- They feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel.
- They have approval from their eye surgeon.
How to Know You’re Ready
- Schedule a follow-up exam to confirm visual acuity meets legal driving standards.
- Test your vision in different lighting conditions.
- Start by driving short distances during the day.
🧠 Final Recovery Tips
- Attend all scheduled follow-ups with your surgeon.
- Report any unusual pain, redness, or vision changes immediately.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins that support eye health (like Vitamin A and C).
Summary Checklist: LASEK Eye Surgery Aftercare
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Use eye drops as prescribed | Don’t rub or touch your eyes |
| Wear protective lenses | Avoid makeup and swimming |
| Rest your eyes frequently | Limit screen time initially |
| Wear sunglasses outdoors | Don’t drive without approval |
💧 Tip: Use eye drops with clean hands and avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye.
📵 Avoiding Screen Time and Eye Strain
After LASEK surgery, your eyes may feel dry and sensitive. To help them recover:
- Take frequent breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Adjust screen brightness and use blue light filters on devices.
- Use artificial tears before and after screen use to maintain moisture.
- Avoid prolonged reading or focusing on small text for at least a week.
🛑 Driving After LASEK: When Is It Safe?
Why Driving Is Restricted Initially
- Vision may be blurry or fluctuating for several days after surgery.
- Your eyes will be light-sensitive, making night driving particularly difficult.
- Medications and discomfort can impair focus and reaction times.
Typical Timeline for Driving
- Most patients can safely drive about 3 to 7 days post-surgery, once:
- Their vision is sufficiently clear and stable (often 20/40 or better).
- They feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel.
- They have approval from their eye surgeon.
How to Know You’re Ready
- Schedule a follow-up exam to confirm visual acuity meets legal driving standards.
- Test your vision in different lighting conditions.
- Start by driving short distances during the day.
🧠 Final Recovery Tips
- Attend all scheduled follow-ups with your surgeon.
- Report any unusual pain, redness, or vision changes immediately.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins that support eye health (like Vitamin A and C).
Summary Checklist: LASEK Eye Surgery Aftercare
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Use eye drops as prescribed | Don’t rub or touch your eyes |
| Wear protective lenses | Avoid makeup and swimming |
| Rest your eyes frequently | Limit screen time initially |
| Wear sunglasses outdoors | Don’t drive without approval |
Proper LASEK eye surgery aftercare plays a crucial role in how quickly and comfortably you heal. Following these tips helps ensure your eyes recover well, so you can enjoy clear, crisp vision again soon.
