LASIK · Patient Q&A

What are my LASIK post-op instructions?

Medically reviewed by Carl J. May Jr., MD · American Board of OphthalmologyReviewed July 9, 2026
Direct answer

For the first hours: go home, close your eyes, and rest — expect watering, light sensitivity, and a gritty feeling that improves by the next day. Use your antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops exactly as prescribed, wear the protective shields while sleeping for the first nights, and do not rub your eyes. For the first week, skip eye makeup, pools, and hot tubs, and keep soap and tap water out of the eye. Most people see well enough to drive at the day-one visit. Increasing pain, worsening redness, or falling vision after the first day is not normal — call us right away.

§Read video transcript

After the LASIK procedure, you will rest for a bit, and typically you can return home soon after. It's important to understand that after the surgery, you may feel a temporary burning or itching sensation in your eyes. You should also expect some blurry vision and haziness immediately after the procedure, however, your vision should improve by the next morning. Your eyesight should stabilize and continue to improve within a few days, although in rare cases it may take several weeks or longer. For most people, vision improves immediately, and you may be able to go to work the next day, but in most cases a few days of rest is necessary. It is usually recommended to stay away from strenuous activities for at least a week. These activities may include heavy lifting, exercise, or tasks in dusty environments, which can traumatize the eye and affect healing. Generally, you will return to see your eye doctor or surgeon the day after surgery for a follow-up exam. As with any other surgery, always follow your doctor's instructions, and take any medication prescribed. It also is important to refrain from rubbing your eye, as there is a small chance of dislodging the corneal flap. In most cases, LASIK is pain-free and can be completed within minutes for both eyes. If you are ready to embrace vision without the need for glasses or contacts, consider LASIK today.

Medical sources

This page and video are for general patient education and are not a substitute for a medical examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Eye conditions vary by individual. For advice about your eyes, schedule an evaluation with May Eye Care Center. In an emergency, call 911.

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