Recovery
Find out how your eyes heal after laser eye surgery and what you can safely expect day by day.
FAQ
We will answer all your concerns.
When can I drive again?
On the day of your procedure, you should not drive — due to the eye drops and fluctuations in vision. Many patients who have had a flap-based procedure — such as FemtoLASIK or iLASIK iDesign — are able to return to driving after 24–48 hours, provided their vision and comfort are sufficient. Always confirm with your doctor before getting behind the wheel.
What are the possible complications after laser vision correction?
Serious complications are rare but possible. More common temporary symptoms include: dry eye, halo effect, night glare, fluctuations in visual acuity and occasionally epithelial haze (temporary corneal cloudiness). Very rarely: corneal infection or ectasia. A thorough consultation and strict adherence to post-operative instructions are essential.
When can I return to sport after laser vision correction?
Light activity is usually possible after 7 days, such as walking or cycling. More strenuous exercise typically requires a break of 2–4 weeks. Swimming, saunas and contact or extreme sports usually require a longer break — up to 2–3 months. Your doctor will advise you at your follow-up visit.
Do I need to take time off work after the procedure?
It depends on the method and the nature of the work. After SMILE Pro / iLASIK iDesign / FemtoLASIK methods, 2-3 days off is usually sufficient; after PRK / EBK recovery is longer and L4 is sometimes needed for 7-14 days. For a few weeks it is advisable to limit intensive screen work and dust/air conditioning, as advised by your doctor.
How is the recovery going?
First effects
- Visual acuity: 40-70%
- Discomfort: Moderate
- Activity: Leisure at home
A marked improvement
- Visual acuity: 80-90%
- Discomfort: Minimal
- Activity: Daily activities, no sport
Stabilisation of vision
- Visual acuity: 90%
- Discomfort: none
- Activity: Light activity, walking, cycling. Avoid contact sports
Full recovery
- Visual acuity: 100%
- Discomfort: none
- Activity: Unlimited
Recovery
What is allowed and what should be avoided?
Find out how to take care of yourself after the procedure
Recommended
- Use your drops regularly
Antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and moisturising drops as prescribed by your doctor. This is the key to smooth recovery - Wear sunglasses
Always when outdoors during the first week. Protects against UV light and dust. - Wear an eye shield at night
For the first 7 nights. Prevents accidental rubbing of the eye during sleep - Attend your follow-up visits
All scheduled follow-up visits are important for monitoring your healing. - Take breaks from screens
20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 metres away for 20 seconds
Prohibited
- Do not rub your eyes
This is extremely important. Rubbing can dislodge the corneal flap or damage the healing surface. - Keep your eyes away from water
For the first week, do not submerge your head in water and avoid the eye area when washing your face. Avoid swimming pools and hot tubs for 2–3 months. - Do not wear eye make-up
for 2 weeks. Bacteria from cosmetics can cause infection. Face make-up is fine after one week. - Avoid dusty environments
For the first week, stay away from building work, smoky rooms and strong winds. - Avoid contact sports
For 2–3 months: boxing, martial arts, football, basketball. The risk of eye injury is too high.
When should I contact my doctor immediately?
The following symptoms require urgent attention
Severe or worsening pain
Mild discomfort is normal, but severe pain can signal a problem
Sudden deterioration of vision
Particularly if your vision was better before
Profuse discharge or swelling
May indicate infection
Severe redness
If it is getting worse rather than improving
Flashes of light or floaters
May indicate a retinal problem
Other stages
Stage 1
Assessment
Find out what the assessment involves
Stage 3
Procedure
Find out what the procedure looks like