What to expect in the first few weeks after laser eye surgery

Laser eye surgery is a quick 10-15 minute procedure that can grant you freedom from the hassle of glasses and contact lenses for life. It uses cutting-edge, blade-free and minimally invasive technology to promote a quick recovery so that you can get back to your new life as soon as possible.

Our highly specialised team at George St Eye Centre will answer the commonly asked post-laser questions to guide you through your recovery. 

Can I see straight after the surgery?

Most people experience an immediate improvement of their vision straight after laser eye surgery. They are amazed when they can read our sign without any glasses on!

However, we recommend that you minimise using your eyes intensely, particularly for near vision (reading or using a computer) for the next 48 hours after surgery to allow your eyes to recuperate. Swimming should be avoided for 14 days and rough contact sports for a month or so.

Will I be in any pain or discomfort?

It is common to experience the sensation of having gritty foreign matter in the eyes and some burning after the operation. This is nothing to be concerned about. It will usually settle down within a few days, but it can take several weeks in some instances.

What aftercare is involved?

Before you leave our clinic, we will provide you with a postoperative kit that contains special eye drops for you to use with a specific eye drop regimen. This is to promote the recovery of your eyes. You are required to use these eye drops for up to 4 weeks.

When can I go back to work?

Depending on the type of laser procedure performed and your occupation, you are usually able to return to work within a few days. However, it is best to book a few extra days leave to allow your eyes to recuperate.  Our team at George St Eye Centre can provide you with medical certificates for this.

When am I fully recovered?

In most cases, patients see very well the next day. They can drive without glasses. However, with some procedures (PRK), this can take up to a week. After your surgery, you will be required to come back to our clinic for follow-up visits to ensure your eyes are recovering normally. Depending on the nature of your individualised recovery, you may regain full visual functionality sooner or later.

Is laser eye surgery permanent?

Depending on your age and the refractive error for which you are treated, the results may last a lifetime! Lasik does not prevent you from presbyopia, which is age-related long-sightedness, a natural lens-based issue that occurs in those in their mid-40s. In some cases, there may be some return of a prescription needed to see perfectly. However, it is rarely as bad as the original error. Contrary to popular opinion, a second procedure can treat this and restore optimal vision.

Laser eye surgery is a fast, effective and life-changing procedure. George St Eye Centre offers free laser screenings to determine your suitability for laser eye surgery.

Request your free laser eye surgery assessment now