Updated on June 21, 2024
Our Readers Asked About: LASIK Eye Surgery Recovery Time
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Reader Question: What is the typical LASIK eye surgery recovery time? How long should I take off work?
LASIK recovery is generally very quick. Most people experience significant improvements in their vision within the first 24 hours after surgery.
Many LASIK patients can return to normal activities, like driving and working, after a day or two. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s eyes heal differently.
The full LASIK recovery timeline can take about 3 to 6 months. During this time, you may experience mild side effects like dryness, blurry vision, or glare. Fortunately, these side effects typically subside within a few days or weeks.
How much time off work do you really need after LASIK?
If you need to take time off work, 1 to 3 days is usually enough for the initial recovery period. However, remember that the exact time you need may vary depending on your job and comfort level.
If your work involves a lot of close-up computer work or exposure to dust or debris, you may want to consider taking a few extra days. You have to make sure your eyes are fully healed before returning to work.
These are some of our tips for working after LASIK.
- Schedule your LASIK procedure for a Friday so you can rest during the weekend.
- Talk to your employer about your LASIK plans and see if they can offer flexibility with your work schedule during your recovery period.
- Prepare your home environment for a relaxing recovery. Stock up on easy-to-prepare meals, eye drops, and any other essentials you might need.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home from the procedure and help you with errands during the initial recovery period.
- Follow your doctor's post-operative instructions carefully. This includes using prescribed eye drops, avoiding eye strain, and wearing protective eyewear.
About Our Contributors
Mara Sugue, with a B.A. in Social Sciences, is a dedicated web content writer for Vision Center. She is committed to making eye health research accessible and understandable to people from diverse backgrounds and educational levels. Her writing aims to bridge the gap between complex vision health topics and readers' needs for clear, factual information.
Dr. Melody Huang is an optometrist and freelance health writer with a passion for educating people about eye health. With her unique blend of clinical expertise and writing skills, Dr. Huang seeks to guide individuals towards healthier and happier lives. Her interests extend to Eastern medicine and integrative healthcare approaches. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new skincare products, experimenting with food recipes, and spending time with her adopted cats.