After scheduling your LASIK eye surgery in Houston, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of improved vision. But thoughtful preparation can directly impact your recovery experience. These practical steps are based on what patients consistently find helpful. Whether you live alone or with others, a few small actions taken beforehand can reduce stress and improve comfort after the procedure.
1) Plan for a restful day following surgery
You won’t be able to drive yourself home after LASIK, so arrange for a trusted friend or family member to accompany you. Once you’re home, avoid tasks, errands, or screen use. Resting in a dark, quiet space helps minimize early irritation and fatigue. Most patients fall asleep for several hours after returning home. Let that work to your advantage.
2) Choose what you’ll wear in advance
Pick comfortable, loose-fitting clothes the night before surgery. You’ll likely feel groggy afterward due to the mild sedative used, and changing clothes may not be your top priority. Avoid tops that require pulling over your head. This eliminates unnecessary contact near the eyes.
3) Stock your kitchen before surgery day
Prepare easy meals ahead of time. This includes snacks, frozen food, or delivery options. If you enjoy cooking, do it the day before and refrigerate portions. This is especially helpful if you’re managing your recovery alone. Keep frequently used items within easy reach on the counter to avoid bending or opening hard-to-reach cabinets right after surgery.
4) Eat a complete meal before your appointment
You won’t be under general anesthesia, but you may be instructed not to eat shortly before surgery. To avoid fatigue or nausea, have a nutritious meal in the morning. Include protein, healthy fats, and water. Many patients sleep off the first few hours post-op, so hunger can sneak up later if you skip breakfast or lunch.
5) Store your prescribed drops where you’ll see them
Your eye surgeon will provide medicated drops to help with healing. Set reminders or place the drops next to your bed or couch, where you’ll spend most of your first 24 hours. If possible, keep the artificial tears in the refrigerator — the cool sensation can soothe dryness during the early stages of recovery.
6) Avoid washing your face orhair the day after surgery
Plan to shower and wash your hair before surgery day. This avoids accidental water exposure near the eyes immediately after LASIK. For a few days, stick to using a damp cloth to wipe your face gently. Avoid splashing water or applying soap near the eye area. Even with the corneal flap healing quickly, it’s better not to risk irritation from soap residue.
7) Minimize your screen time and light exposure
You’ll be instructed to avoid screens, reading, and bright lights during the first 24 hours. Prepare non-visual forms of entertainment such as music playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks in advance. Dim the lights in the bedroom and use blackout curtains if available. If you use a phone for calls or voice messages, turn on accessibility features like enlarged text and voice control ahead of time.
8) Pick up over-the-counter pain relief
While most LASIK patients experience only minor discomfort, some report mild headaches or eye irritation after surgery. Acetaminophen is often sufficient if you need a backup option to any prescription medication your surgeon provides. Keep it nearby, especially for the first evening.
9) Arrange short-term help if you have pets or children
If possible, have someone else take care of your pet’s feeding and walking routines for a day. Children may also require supervision while your vision remains slightly blurred or sensitive to light. Delegating these responsibilities allows you to rest without interruption, which supports the body’s healing process.
10) Give yourself time before returning to work
Although many patients resume daily activities within 24 to 48 hours, allow some buffer. If your job involves prolonged screen use or time outdoors, you might benefit from taking an extra day off. This allows your vision to stabilize without added strain. Avoid dusty environments, strong winds, or any tasks that increase the risk of rubbing your eyes in the first week.
Final notes
LASIK recovery tends to be quick and uneventful when patients prepare well. Your body will do most of the healing without intervention — but a little planning goes a long way. After surgery, follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully, attend follow-up appointments, and avoid touching your eyes unnecessarily. The goal is to keep your recovery comfortable and uncomplicated.
