LASIK Aftercare · Cedar Park & Austin, TX
LASIK Recovery Time
Recovery time varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the severity of your prescription. Although LASIK can significantly improve vision within 24 hours, most patients should expect a short recovery period as the eyes heal.
Recovery Timeline
Day-by-Day LASIK Recovery
Recovery time varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the severity of your prescription. Most patients see clearly within 24 hours, but a short recovery period is normal as your eyes heal. Following your surgeon's instructions carefully ensures the best outcome.
Day 0 — Surgery Day
- The procedure itself takes less than 15 minutes; you'll rest in observation before heading home
- Blurriness, burning, or stinging in the first few hours is completely normal — no need for alarm
- Sedation is administered, so a trusted driver must take you home to rest for the day
- No screen time, driving, or strenuous activity
Day 1 — The Morning After
- Most patients see 20/20 or better by their first follow-up exam
- Within 24 hours you may drive and return to the office for a follow-up exam
- Mild dryness and occasional glare are normal
- Begin using prescribed antibiotic and steroid drops
Days 2–7
- Avoid strenuous exercise for at least one week — strain can cause ocular pain or move the LASIK flap
- Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes (especially important)
- No swimming, hot tubs, or lake water
- No eye makeup for at least one week
- Most patients return to desk work within 1–2 days
Weeks 2–4
- Wear a protective shield while sleeping to prevent accidental eye rubbing
- Wear protective glasses during the day and dark sunglasses outdoors
- Avoid contact sports and anything with eye impact risk
- Continue preservative-free artificial tears as needed
Months 1–3
- Avoid rubbing your eyes for two months — the cornea remains vulnerable to injury
- Full visual stabilization occurs in this window
- Final prescription outcome settles — most patients need no correction
- 30-day and 90-day follow-up appointments
Recovery Tips
What to Avoid After LASIK
✕ Eye rubbing
Avoid for at least 1 week — rubbing can displace the corneal flap during early healing.
✕ Swimming & water sports
No swimming, hot tubs, or lake water for 4–6 weeks post-surgery.
✕ Eye makeup
Avoid for at least 1 week; mascara and eyeliner can harbor bacteria near the healing eye.
✕ Contact sports
Protect your eyes from impact for 4–6 weeks. Wear protective eyewear when resuming.
✕ Dusty/smoky environments
Airborne particles can irritate the healing eye. Wear sunglasses outdoors.
✕ Driving before cleared
Do not drive until your Day-1 exam confirms your vision is safe for the road.
Follow-Up Care
Your Post-Op Appointment Schedule
All post-operative appointments are included in your LASIK package at Restivo Laser Vision. Our standard follow-up schedule:
- Day 1: First follow-up — vision check, flap evaluation, drop instructions
- 1 Week: Healing progress assessment; most restrictions lifted
- 1 Month: Refraction measurement; drop regimen typically ends
- 3 Months: Final evaluation — prescription outcome documented
- 1 Year: Annual follow-up; enhancement eligibility review if needed
Ready to Start Your Recovery Journey?
Schedule a free LASIK consultation at Restivo Laser Vision in Cedar Park, TX and take the first step toward a life without glasses.