Most people who have undergone the procedure describe their vision as being extremely blurry, like looking at things from under water. The surgeon will likely recommend that you go home and take a nap, or keep your eyes closed while resting so the flaps (or flap, if just one eye was operated on) can stabilize in position.
You will probably start feeling a little dryness or discomfort as the postoperative numbing drops wear off. Some mild pain is rare, but if it happens, it will probably be within the first few hours after surgery. It's also very unlikely that you will feel any severe pain, but if you do, this would be the time to call your doctor - immediately.
If your surgeon gave you antibiotic and/or anti-inflammatory eye drops to keep your eyes from getting infected, be sure to use them as soon as prescribed.
That Evening
You will probably be given a shield from the medical center to wear at night. Use this for as many nights as you need to prevent rubbing the eye inadvertently. It's very important not to rub at all for two weeks, so if this shield is not working to its full capacity, be sure to let your doctor know.
The Next Few Days
The morning after Lasik, your vision is usually very good, and should continue to improve. Be sure to still use the drops, and avoid dirty areas, swimming and makeup at all costs! You can probably resume most of your regular activities, but in addition to the aforementioned you should also avoid any and all contact sports or activities. Use other drops if recommended, to keep the eyes moist.
It's not uncommon for the patient to experience some continued blurring or feeling of dryness for a couple of days as the cornea heals, but if it becomes unbearable, ask to see the doctor immediately. Alternatively, some people experience watery eyes, or see "halos." If it's nothing structural with the eye, your doctor can recommend some different or stronger drops.
Some Lasik patients experience sensitivity to bright lights for a few days or weeks after surgery; wear dark sunglasses if you experience this and let your doctor know if the sensitivity continues past two weeks.
Sometime Before The First Week, Post-Op
Your Lasik doctor most likely scheduled a follow-up visit for between a day and a week after the procedure, to make sure everything is healing normally. However, don't wait until the scheduled appointment if you feel anything is abnormal, either in looks for feeling.
Up To Two Months, Post-Op
If you have recovered smoothly up until this point, you're probably enjoying your clear new vision! However, your doctor may recommend avoiding some of the more strenuous contact or water sports for at least one or two months after the surgery. He or she may also have you continue to wash gently around your eyes with a mild cleanser, either one that's prescribed or a recommended over-the-counter type.
