When Can You Use Your Phone After PRK (Surface Laser) Surgery?

Information about using your phone after laser eye surgery:  

Using your phone or any digital screen too soon after LASIK can cause eye strain and discomfort. The easiest way to help your eyes heal properly is to give them a break from screens. Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 24 hours after the procedure before using digital devices.

You can contact the Eye Center at Abtal Specialized Medical Complex in Saudi Arabia and book a consultation to get detailed advice from highly experienced eye care specialists.

Can You Use Your Phone After LASIK Surgery?

You can use your smartphone or tablet after LASIK surgery, but you should limit the amount of time you spend on them, especially in the first few days. That’s because your eyes are still healing and may struggle to focus for long periods on screens.

When you look at your phone or tablet, pay attention to how your eyes feel. If you start to notice discomfort, dryness, or eye strain, take a break by closing your eyes for a short time. It’s also important to follow the 20/20/20 rule.

The 20/20/20 rule means: every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This not only gives your eyes the rest they need, but also reduces the risk of eye strain and other problems during the healing process.

Does Using Your Phone After LASIK Weaken Your Vision?

Although using your phone after LASIK is generally safe, it’s recommended that you limit screen time at the beginning.

Staring at screens for long periods can cause eye strain and dryness, which may interfere with the healing process. Take regular breaks and follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Make sure your phone’s screen brightness is set to a comfortable level that does not strain your eyes. You may also want to increase the font size so you don’t have to squint or focus too hard.

Reading or using your phone in dim lighting can also strain your eyes, so make sure the room is well lit to avoid unnecessary eye fatigue.

When Can You Start Using Your Phone After LASIK?

When you use a computer, tablet, smartphone, or play video games, you may experience more eye strain than usual. This is because you tend to blink less when you focus on a screen, which can lead to dry eyes.

During the first week or two after LASIK, keep your lubricating eye drops handy and use them often while you’re on the computer or other screens. Try to follow the 20-20-20 rule as well: for every 20 minutes you spend looking at a screen, take a 20‑second break to focus on something at least 20 feet away.

Use your eye drops during these breaks too. This gives your eyes a chance to rest and rehydrate before you go back to the screen. In general, the American Board of Refractive Surgery notes that you can usually return to most normal activities about 24 hours after LASIK. However, you may still want to reduce your screen time for a bit longer and make sure you follow all post‑LASIK care instructions.

When Can I Use My Phone After PRK (Surface Laser) Surgery?

Tips Before Using Your Phone After PRK (Surface Laser) Surgery

Using your phone or any other digital screen right after PRK or LASIK can cause eye strain and discomfort. It’s best to avoid these devices for at least the first 24 hours after the procedure.

It’s also a good idea to limit the amount of time you spend looking at screens in the early healing period. The blue and white light wavelengths emitted by TVs, computers, tablets, and smartphones can contribute to eye strain and irritation. Instead, try focusing on something a few feet away that is evenly lit, such as a printed book or magazine.

You should also keep your follow‑up appointments with your eye surgeon to monitor your recovery. During these visits, your doctor will perform a full eye exam to assess corneal shape and thickness, refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism), and any other issues that could affect your vision.

Following these recommendations will make it easier to enjoy your new, clearer vision after laser eye surgery. You’ll likely be able to get back to work and your daily routine sooner than you would if you were still dependent on glasses or contact lenses.