Recovery 101: Everything you need to know about what happens after laser eye surgery at Optilase

Millions of people across the world have elected to undergo Laser Eye Surgery at Optilase, and by doing so have freed themselves of the need to wear glasses or contact lenses to see clearly.

If you’re still on the fence about reclaiming your vision or are put off at the thoughts of a long recovery process, allow us to put your mind at ease.

Does it take long to recover after Laser Eye Surgery at Optilase?
The procedure itself takes less than 30 minutes, and because of advances in laser technology, recovery time is speedier and allows patients to return to their normal routine within 24 hours.

During Laser Eye Surgery, topical anesthetic drops are applied to the surface of the eye so you will not feel anything during the procedure.

Once these numbing drops wear off after Laser Eye Surgery, you may experience some dull pain or mild discomfort as your eye adjusts and begins to heal.

Vision is immediately restored after Laser Eye Surgery, but for the first 8-12 hours eyesight can remain blurred as the surface of your corneas are still healing.

What if I accidentally rub my eye after Laser Eye Surgery?
Patients are fitted with protective goggles after Laser Eye Surgery to ensure that eyes are safe from any dirt or irritants that may cause infection or prevent clean healing.

Furthermore, the goggles will act as a barrier to any involuntary rubbing of the eye that might happen as sometimes it can feel like there is something in your eye post-surgery and the temptation to rub or itch it can be quite strong.

Any disruption to the surface of the eye after Laser Eye Surgery can be detrimental to the healing process, especially if the corneal flap becomes dislodged or damaged.


What can I do to help the healing process?

The eyes tend to be extra sensitive to bright lights immediately after Laser Eye Surgery, so it is best to avoid bright rooms and direct sunlight to avoid causing unnecessary stress to the eye.

Prescription eye drops are issued to patients to help keep the surface of the eye moist. They also work to prevent infection or the eyes becoming swollen. They should be administered a couple of times a day after Laser Eye Surgery.

No makeup should be worn around the eyes during recovery and certain sports and activities must be avoided for a number of weeks after Laser Eye Surgery including swimming and any contact sports.

You’ll be given an instruction sheet with all of these details on it to ensure you know what to do after your eye surgery, and the team at Optilase will always be available to you if you have any questions or concerns.

Book your free consultation now here or by calling +353 1 223 8821.

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Patient Reviews

Margaret Mc Clafferty
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Margaret Mc Clafferty
August 29, 2026

I had LASIK done in Dublin after a consultation and follow up in Derry. From the very start, Elizabeth in Derry put me at ease with her approach. Such a warm, helpful way about her. Surgeon Mikhall Hernandez took the time to meet me in advance to explain the process. All the staff- Iwona, Julie, Jess, Robbie (from Donegal!) and Rachael, I really appreciated the way they supported me from start to finish

Aline Bortolotti Secco
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Aline Bortolotti Secco
July 31, 2026

I had a great LASIK experience at Optilase Carrickmines and couldn’t be happier with the results. Dr. Tom Materman is incredibly kind, attentive, and made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process. I highly recommend him, as well as the whole Optilase team! I didn’t feel anything during the procedure, which was much easier than I expected. My recovery has also been going really well—I’m only on day two, and everything has been smooth so far. Thank you to everyone at Optilase for the excellent care!

Carl Thorne
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Carl Thorne
July 28, 2026

Life changing. From the initial consultation to the aftercare, Optilase have been friendly, professional and caring every step of the way. No worry or concern was too small for a detailed discussion and helpful response. 3 months after my phakic lens surgery my vision is as good as it ever was with glasses without the hassle. Would recommend the Optilase Carrickmines team to anyone.

Colm Smith
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Colm Smith
July 28, 2026

Very happy with the operation, results and the aftercare

Gerard Mcphillips
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Gerard Mcphillips
July 24, 2026

Very professional and appointments on time

D
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D
July 24, 2026

Great team, great experience. Anyone thinking about doing it, do it. Always on the end of the phone if there was any issues. Highly recommend!

jason farrell
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jason farrell
July 23, 2026

The entire process was smooth professional and completely stress free, I couldn't be happier with my outcome

Tara Dowds
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Tara Dowds
July 22, 2026

Excellent experience in the Cork clinic. Dan O'brien explained everything so throughly. I really appreciated the consultation.

Michael Britton
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Michael Britton
July 22, 2026

Absolutely brilliant service from consultation through to surgery and aftercare. The whole team are really friendly and efficient. Would recommend to anyone thinking about getting corrective surgery.

Majella Murphy
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Majella Murphy
July 22, 2026

Excellent service and care. Laser eye surgery went well and have had no issues. Highly recommend Sinead and the team in Optilase Cork

Saidhbhe OShea
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Saidhbhe OShea
July 21, 2026

Highly recommended the team in the cork clinic. Very professional and friendly throughout the whole process.

wiktoria szmerdt
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wiktoria szmerdt
July 21, 2026

Lovely staff, very knowledgeable, made me feel calm and comfortable during my consultation

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