After laser eye surgery, what you do next is just as important as the procedure itself. Simple do’s and don’ts can make your laser eye surgery recovery more comfortable and reduce the chance of irritation or delay in healing. Your eyes are more sensitive straight after treatment, so how you rest them, use your drops and protect them all plays a part in recovery. Your eye surgeon will give you personalised aftercare advice based on your eyes and your procedure.
What You Should Do After Laser Eye Surgery
In the first day or two, try to:
- Rest your eyes as much as possible, especially in the first 24 hours
- Use your prescribed eye drops exactly as directed
- Wear sunglasses outside to protect against wind and bright light
- Attend all follow-up appointments so your surgeon can check your healing
If anything feels very different from what you were told to expect, contact the clinic for tailored advice.
What You Should Avoid After Laser Eye Surgery
For a short period after surgery, it is usually sensible to avoid:
- Rubbing or pressing on your eyes
- Eye make-up, especially around the lash line
- Swimming pools, hot tubs or saunas
- Heavy exercise or contact sports
- Dusty, smoky or dirty environments, where possible
These activities can increase dryness, irritation or the risk of infection while the surface of the eye is healing.
Why Following Aftercare Instructions Matters
Good post-laser care helps reduce discomfort and supports the natural healing process. It also makes it easier to spot and manage any problems early. By following your eye surgeon’s aftercare plan and these simple do’s and don’ts, you give your eyes a calm, sensible environment in which to recover.
