How long will my vision be blurry after lasik?
If you're thinking about LASIK, you're probably excited about seeing clearly without glasses or contacts. But you might also be wondering: "How long will my vision be blurry after LASIK?"
At Atlantic Eye Laser Centre, we want you to know exactly what to expect. So let’s break it down.
Blurry vision is normal at first
Right after the procedure, it’s completely normal for your vision to be a bit blurry or hazy. Your eyes are adjusting and starting to heal. You’ve just had a laser reshaping the front surface of your eye—your cornea—so a little bit of blur is part of the process.
What to expect in the first 24 hours
Most people notice an improvement in their vision within hours of the procedure. But your vision might not be crystal clear right away. It’s common to feel like you’re seeing through a soft filter during the first day.
That’s okay. Your eyes are recovering. Resting them, keeping them lubricated with drops, and avoiding screen time can help.
First few days
By day two or three, most people see a big improvement. Many are able to drive, return to work, and resume most normal activities. But you might still have a bit of blur, especially if your vision was very poor before LASIK.
The First week to one month
During the first week, your vision may fluctuate—clear one moment, blurry the next. That’s completely normal. Your corneas are healing, and the tear film on your eyes (which keeps your vision smooth) can take a little while to stabilise.
By the end of the first month, most patients report sharp, stable vision—often 20/20 or better.
When should I be concerned?
If your blurry vision persists beyond a month or worsens suddenly, it’s important to let us know. We’re here to make sure you’re healing as expected. Most issues can be quickly managed with personalised care.
What can help?
- Use your prescribed eye drops as directed.
- Keep your eyes well-lubricated.
- Wear sunglasses to reduce light sensitivity.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes.
Everyone heals at their own pace
No two eyes are exactly alike. Some people reach their best vision in a few days. Others take a few weeks. What’s most important is that your vision is moving in the right direction.
Want to know If LASIK is right for you?
Take our quick, easy self-test to see if you might be suitable.
Find out if you are suitable for laser eye surgery
Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
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What our patients say…
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The best care, the best treatment and the best doctors.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Everything was done with care and the doctor explained everything in detail. My surgery was a success and my sight has significantly improved – I no longer use glasses.”
N.N.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“All I can say is WOW! I feel like I have new eyes.
Thank you just doesn’t even began to say how grateful I am. Your hole team is an absolute pleasure to be around. You guys rock”
S.B.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The service is excellent and the doctors are experts in their fields. I felt relaxed and confident that I was in great hands. Staff are warm, friendly and very helpful.”
F.W.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I would refer Dr Beatty to anyone interested in LASIK or PRK eye surgery. The entire experience was really pleasant with his and his staff’s professional advice and care before, during and after the surgery.
I am very thankful to be able to look at the world and go about my day to day activities without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.”
P.M.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Best money spent ever. I am so happy with the results after I had LASIK done.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“BEST decision and results after I had my LASIK done by Doctor Beatty!”
A.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I will definitely recommend Dr Beatty. I am so happy with my LASIK.”
R.B.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Dr Daemon McClunan and the entire staff at Atlantic Eye Centre, Foreshore are beyond AMAZING. The medical care I received from Dr McClunan was outstanding and the staff was always friendly and professional.”
M.M.We have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
Hi, I’m Daemon McClunan
I’m proud to be the founder of both the Atlantic Eye Centre, a leading eye specialist centre; and LIQID Medical Pty, an award-winning biotech company. My passion for research and innovation has led me to create four patented devices, and earn various prestigious awards during my specialist training.
With a medical degree from Stellenbosch University, a specialist degree from the University of Cape Town, and experience working in renowned Laser Eye Surgery centres in Canada, Germany, India and London, I’m dedicated to providing top-tier care.
Beyond the clinic, I’ve embarked on humanitarian missions, travelling over 15,000km by motorbike to provide rural eye screenings. In my downtime, I love mountain biking, diving, and spending quality time with my family.
My goal is to provide a world-class service which ensures every patient leaves my practice feeling happier than when they first walked in.
Dr Daemon McClunan
MBChB(SU), DipOphth(SA), MMed(UCT), FcOphth(SA)
Hi, I’m James Beatty
I pride myself on providing exceptional eye care with state-of-the-art equipment and a team dedicated to excellence. With a focus on refractive surgery, I bring years of experience and expertise to each patient’s journey towards clearer vision.
As an active member of esteemed Ophthalmologist societies including the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa and the South African Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, I stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field.
Additionally, my affiliation with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and the South African Glaucoma Society underscores my commitment to upholding the highest standards of care.
With a passion for laser surgery, I strive to deliver optimal outcomes for every patient.
Dr James Beatty
MB ChB (UCT) FCS (SA) Ophth MMed (Stel) Ophth
