How long does it take to heal after laser eye surgery?

If you’re thinking about correcting your vision with laser surgery , one of the first questions that comes up is: How long does the healing take? The answer depends on the method you choose. Some treatments allow you to see clearly almost immediately. Others need a few extra days or weeks of recovery. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the healing process of the four most common procedures: PRK/LASEK, iLASIK/FemtoLASIK, SILK, and Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE). You’ll learn what to expect, when you can drive again, when you can return to work, and how soon your vision stabilises.

1. Healing after PRK or LASEK

PRK and LASEK are surface treatments where the top layer of the cornea is gently removed before reshaping. Because this epithelium needs time to regenerate, recovery is longer compared to flap-based laser methods.

Typical healing timeline:

• First 3-5 days: Protective contact lens in place. Light sensitivity, tearing, and mild discomfort are normal.
• 1 week: Most patients can return to work and normal daily tasks.
• 2–4 weeks: Vision continues to improve and stabilise.
• 3 months: Final visual result is usually achieved.

PRK/LASEK is often chosen for patients with thinner corneas or specific eye conditions. While the healing phase takes longer, the results are very stable in the long term.

2. Healing after iLASIK / FemtoLASIK

LASIK-based procedures are known for fast recovery. A laser-created flap allows the surgeon to reshape the cornea underneath without removing the surface layer.

Typical healing timeline:

• First 24 hours: Vision becomes noticeably clearer.
• Next day: Most people can work, drive, and use screens.
• 1 week: Dryness may linger but improves with drops.
• 1–3 months: Full stability and sharpness.

Because the surface of the eye remains mostly intact, irritation is minimal, and recovery feels almost instant for many patients.

3. Healing after SILK

SILK (Smooth Incision Lenticule Keratomileusis) is one of the newest and gentlest laser technologies. Instead of creating a larger flap, a tiny lenticule is removed through a microscopic incision using the Elita laser system.

Typical healing timeline:

• First 24–48 hours: Vision improves quickly; minimal discomfort.
• Day 2–3: Many patients return to work and activities.
• 1–4 weeks: Vision sharpens and stabilises.
• 3 months: Final visual outcome reached.

Because the surface is barely touched, dry eye risk is lower and healing is smoother than with traditional LASIK.

4. Healing after Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

RLE is not a corneal laser but a lens replacement, similar to modern cataract surgery. It’s often chosen by patients over 45 who want to correct presbyopia or avoid future cataracts.

Typical healing timeline:

• 24 hours: Vision is noticeably clearer.
• 1–2 days: Most patients resume normal routines.
• 1–2 weeks: Temporary glare or halos improve.
• 1 month: Vision is usually fully stabilised.

When can you return to normal life?

• Driving: Often within 1–2 days for LASIK/SILK/RLE, and 5–7 days for PRK.
• Screens and reading: Usually within 1–3 days.
• Sports and makeup: After 1–2 weeks depending on the method.
• Swimming and sauna: After 2–4 weeks.

Follow-up examinations are important, but recovery is quick, comfortable and virtually painless.

What supports healing?

• Avoid rubbing your eyes
• Use drops as prescribed
• Attend your check-ups
• Rest your eyes in the first 24 hours

Take the first step

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