Anyone who opts for laser eye treatment is usually looking forward to one thing: clear vision without glasses or contact lenses. But how long does the recovery period last after the procedure? Should you expect to be on sick leave and how soon can you return to work, sport or driving?

In this blog, you will find out how long you will actually be out of action after laser eye surgery, how the recovery time differs depending on the procedure – and what you should pay attention to in order to be fit for everyday life again quickly. We also take a look at the comparison with cataract surgery and provide practical tips for a smooth recovery. Ideal for anyone who wants as little downtime as possible in their professional or private life – but still wants to play it safe.

How long does recovery take after laser eye surgery? How long sick?

People who opt for laser eye treatment often ask themselves the question: How long will I be off sick afterwards? The good news first: the recovery time after laser eye surgery is usually very short – many patients are able to return to work after just a few days, depending on the procedure chosen and the personal healing process.

Difference depending on the procedure (Femto-LASIK, Trans-PRK, SMILE)

The duration of sick leave varies depending on the method chosen. However, the general physical condition and the profession practiced also determine the duration of the necessary recovery phase.

• Femto-LASIK: Most patients are able to work again after 1-2 days. Light activities (e.g. office work) are often possible the following day.

• Trans-PRK: Here the sick leave usually lasts 4-5 days (sometimes about a week), as the uppermost corneal layer has to regenerate – slight complaints such as sensitivity to light or foreign body sensation are normal during this phase.

• SMILE (SmartSight): In many cases, this minimally invasive procedure allows the patient to return to work after just 1-2 days – similar to Femto-LASIK, but with an even gentler procedure.

First hours after the procedure: What do you feel?

Immediately after the procedure, you may experience burning, tearing, a slight feeling of pressure or blurred vision – all normal reactions that usually subside within a few hours. Many patients find the first 24 hours to be the most intensive phase of the recovery period. After that, their condition usually improves quickly – and with it their vision. Nevertheless, enough time should be allowed for the healing process to complete and to avoid complications. As the operation is often performed on an outpatient basis, you are usually at home for the first few days after the operation and are responsible for resting and recovering yourself.

Do I need a sick note after laser eye surgery?

Whether sick leave is necessary after laser eye surgery depends primarily on the procedure, the profession and the individual healing process.

Even after laser eye treatment in Austria, a sick note from an ophthalmologist is required for official time off work. Anyone who is absent from work without medical confirmation risks consequences under employment law – even if it is “only” for a few days.

For this reason, Smartlaser will provide you with a needs-based sick note as part of your aftercare, tailored to the chosen procedure and your professional activity. This means you are protected under employment law and can concentrate on your recovery with a clear conscience.

When can you go back to work – office, computer screen, trade?

• Office and VDU work: Usually after 1-2 days, with Trans-PRK after 4-5 days. Important: Regular breaks and good lighting in the first few days.

• Trades, construction, care professions or outdoor work: A longer recovery period may be advisable here, as dust, UV radiation or physical strain could irritate the freshly treated eye. Depending on the activity, 5-7 days off are recommended.

• In case of uncertainty, the treating ophthalmologist will make an individual recommendation for sick leave.

What applies to the self-employed or freelancers?

Flexible working arrangements are an advantage for the self-employed. Many return to work the same day or the next day – with reduced screen time and breaks. It is important to avoid the pressure to be fully productive again immediately. Artificial tears, UV-protective goggles and screen breaks noticeably support the healing process.

Tip: If you are very busy at work, you should schedule your laser eye treatment on a Friday or before a public holiday to make the most of the natural recovery time – without having to miss a long period of work. During the follow-up examination, the ophthalmologist can then give the green light depending on the individual healing process.

What can I do after laser eye treatment and when?

Reading, screen work and driving

• With Femto-LASIK and SMILE, reading and screen work are often possible again after 1-2 days. With Trans-PRK, it can take up to 4-5 days until vision is stable enough for this.

• Driving is permitted as soon as the visual acuity is sufficient – the ophthalmologist will check this at the first follow-up check(usually 1-2 days after the operation).

• Important: Make sure you have good lighting, take regular screen breaks and avoid staring at the screen for long periods at the beginning.

Sport, make-up and physical exertion

• Light physical activity (walking, cycling) is usually permitted after a few days.

• Swimming, sauna, contact sports and intensive training / physical exertion should be avoided for 1-3 weeks – depending on the procedure and healing process.

• Eye make-up should not be used for at least 7 days to avoid infection. Rubbing the eyes is also strictly taboo during this time.

Travel, flying and sunlight

• Flying is usually possible after a few days, provided there are no complications – ideally after consultation with an ophthalmologist.

• Sunlight can irritate the sensitive cornea, so UV protective goggles should be worn – especially in the first two weeks after the procedure.

• Travel to hot or dusty regions with a lot of dirt (e.g. deserts, tropics) should be postponed to avoid irritation or infection.

Important tips for a quick recovery after the procedure

The first few days after laser eye surgery are crucial for smooth healing and permanently stable visual acuity. You can actively support the healing process with a few simple measures – and significantly minimize typical complaints such as dryness, sensitivity to light or slight irritation.

These tips will help you to recover quickly:

• Wear sunglasses – even in cloudy weather to protect your eyes from UV light and wind

• Use artificial tears – regularly and as prescribed to moisturize the surface of the eye

• Do not rub or press – even if it itches or pinches, the eye needs rest

• No make-up in the first few days, especially in the eyelid area

• Plenty of sleep & little screen time – the body heals best when at rest

• Wash hands thoroughly before applying eye drops or coming into contact with the eyes

• Contact your doctor immediately if you have any complaints or uncertainties

Tip: Smartlaser provides you with an individual aftercare package with precise rules of conduct and eye drops – perfectly tailored to your treatment. So you can concentrate fully on one thing: Your new clear vision.

And cataract surgery? Comparison with laser eye surgery

In contrast to laser eye treatment, sick leave after cataract surgery is usually somewhat longer – even if the procedure itself is usually quick and has few complications.

What happens after cataract surgery?

• The recovery time after cataract surgery is usually 7 to 14 days

• The statutory sick note is issued by the ophthalmologist, similar to laser eye surgery. Sick leave after cataract surgery is therefore completely normal.

• During this time, the eye should be spared: no heavy lifting, no physically strenuous sport, no rubbing the eyes

• Prolonged sick leave is not uncommon, especially in older patients, as the eye needs more time to recover. Resting the eyes is always a good idea.

• Anyone who relies on visual acuity or responsiveness for their job (e.g. in road traffic or manual work) should plan their return to work individually