How long does the recovery from Lasik really take?

Lasik recovery is remarkably quick for most people, with vision often sharpening dramatically within 24-48 hours and minimal downtime overall. You’ll likely feel some grittiness, tearing, or light sensitivity the first day (managed with drops and rest), but by day 2-3, many return to work, light screen use like phones or laptops (with breaks to avoid strain), and normal indoor activities if comfortable no rubbing eyes or makeup though.

Outdoor activities like sports resume gradually: light walking right away, but wait 1-2 weeks for swimming/pools, contact sports, or dusty environments to protect the healing flap; full strenuous exercise by 1 month. Full stabilization takes 3-6 months, but 90%+ are back to routines fast follow your surgeon’s drops and check-ups for best results.