Refractive surgery · The care pathway
After refractive surgery, the recovery depends on the technique used. This page describes what is typical in the hours and days that follow, the aftercare to follow, visual recovery, and signs that should prompt you to seek advice promptly.
In the hours immediately after the procedure, discomfort, watering, a sensation of grittiness, and sensitivity to light are common. Vision is blurred. Resting the eyes in a dimly lit room is recommended.
Discomfort, watering, light sensitivity, blurred vision: rest the eyes.
Discomfort eases, vision remains variable then stabilises progressively.
Vision sharpens. Eye drops and follow-up appointments support healing.
Planned check-ups verify the correct recovery of each eye.
Recovery depends largely on the technique used. This is one of the reasons why the choice is made on a case-by-case basis at the pre-operative assessment.
Visual recovery is generally rapid. Some discomfort and fluctuating vision may be experienced in the first days, while the flap heals.
Recovery is more gradual, while the epithelium regenerates. A protective contact lens and more noticeable discomfort in the first days are to be expected.
Eye drops are prescribed to support healing and comfort. It is important to follow the recommended schedule and to avoid rubbing your eyes.
Vision improves over the days and weeks that follow. Full recovery may take some time and requires follow-up, varying according to the technique and the individual eye. Fluctuating vision at the outset is normal and should not be a cause for concern.
Returning to work, screens, sport, swimming, or wearing make-up follows timescales that vary according to the technique. Precise instructions will be given to you after the procedure.
Certain symptoms should prompt you to contact the practice promptly: severe pain, sudden loss of vision, marked redness, or discharge. In an emergency, call 15 or go directly to your nearest ophthalmic emergency unit.
This depends on the technique: recovery is generally rapid after Lasik, more gradual after PKR. Precise timescales will be discussed during your consultation.
The timescale depends on the technique and the nature of your work. Instructions will be provided after the procedure.
These activities may resume after a period that varies according to the technique, in order to protect the healing eye. Instructions will be given to you.
Contact the practice promptly. In an emergency, call 15 or go to an ophthalmic emergency unit.
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Ophthalmology practice in Paris 11th. Online appointments via Doctolib, at any time. Sector 2 fees.