What to expect after laser surgery and when can I get back to normal life?
One of the best things about laser eye surgery is the quick recovery after surgery. Most people can return to their normal daily lives quicker than you think!
Every patient heals differently, but most recoveries follow a similar pattern. The more modern procedures like SMILE or LASIK allow for quicker healing times while a procedure like PRK might take a few days longer. Ultimately, your result with be the same!
There are a few factors that affect your personal healing time:
- The type of procedure (LASIK/SMILE is faster than PRK)
- Your prescription strength
- Natural healing speed per individual
- How carefully you follow aftercare instructions
What to expect after the procedure?
You will not have much pain at all, but your eyes will feel light sensitive, and you may feel a burning or scratchy sensation- this is all completely normal. You may want to keep your eyes closed for a few hours and maybe have a nap or relax- this aids in the healing process.
Below is a clear and precise breakdown of what recovery really looks like and what you expect along the process.
First 24 Hours
- You'll rest at home with your eyes closed.
- Some scratchiness, watering, or mild discomfort is normal.
- Most patients already notice clearer vision within hours.
- You can bend, watch TV, read, be on your cellphone
1–3 Days After Surgery
- Shower (just avoid getting water or soap in your eyes)
- Use a computer or phone in moderation
- Do light household tasks
- You can drive; do light cardio like walking (avoid getting sweat in the eyes)
- Please avoid eye rubbing; heavy lifting; swimming
1 Week After Surgery
Most people feel completely normal at this point.
- You can return to gym to do weight training or cardio.
- You should be able to drive confidently; wear face makeup
- Your eyes may still feel slightly dry — this is temporary and normal.
4-6 weeks After Sugery
By now you should be functioning 100% back to normal. You can go back to normal life. You can start contact sports; swimming; deep sea diving etc.
If you're considering the procedure, it's always best to book a consultation so you can understand your exact healing expectations and options.
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
