What should I avoid after LASIK surgery?

Knowing what to avoid after LASIK surgery is just as important as knowing what to do. The following items and activities must be avoided during recovery to protect the healing corneal flap and prevent complications.

Key Facts

• Avoid eye rubbing — the single most important rule after LASIK
• Avoid water in eyes (swimming, splashing) for 1–4 weeks
• Avoid dusty / smoky environments for 2 weeks
• Avoid eye makeup and mascara for 2 weeks
• Avoid alcohol for 48 hours post-surgery (affects healing)

Guidelines & Tips

• Do not rub, press, or touch your eyes under any circumstances in month 1
• Do not skip your prescribed eye drop schedule — every dose matters
• Do not use non-prescribed eye drops or over-the-counter products
• Do not drive until your surgeon confirms safe vision at the Day 1 check
• Do not expose eyes to chlorinated or salt water for 4 weeks
• Do not expose eyes to direct bright sunlight without UV sunglasses