Most people experience scratchy or gritty eyes for a few days after LASIK, with significant improvement within 24 to 72 hours.
For some, mild dryness or irritation can linger for weeks or even months as the eyes continue to heal, but the initial scratchy sensation usually fades quickly with proper care.
If you’re planning LASIK or recovering from it, understanding what’s normal—and how to soothe your eyes—can make the process more comfortable and less stressful. Here’s what you need to know about scratchy eyes after LASIK, why it happens, how long it lasts, and what you can do to help your eyes recover.
Why Do Eyes Feel Scratchy After LASIK?
The Healing Process
LASIK is performed by making a thin flap in the cornea, using a laser to reshape the tissue beneath, and then carefully placing the flap back in its original position. This process temporarily disrupts the corneal nerves and surface cells, which can lead to sensations of scratchiness, burning, or the feeling that something is in your eye.
Nerve Regeneration and Tear Production
The nerves responsible for tear production and corneal sensation are affected during LASIK. As they regenerate, your eyes may not produce or distribute tears as efficiently, resulting in dryness and irritation, a common cause of scratchy eyes after surgery.
What Does the Scratchy Sensation Feel Like?
- Grittiness, like sand or an eyelash in your eye
- Mild burning or stinging
- Itching or dryness
- Mild pain or discomfort (rarely severe)
This sensation is usually most noticeable in the first 24–48 hours after LASIK and gradually improves as healing progresses.
How Long Does the Scratchy Feeling Last?
First 24–72 Hours: Most Intense Discomfort
- The scratchy or gritty feeling is typically strongest during the first day or two after surgery.
- Many patients notice significant relief within 24–48 hours, especially after a good night’s sleep.
- By the end of the third or fourth day, most discomfort has subsided, and patients can return to work or normal routines.
First Week: Rapid Improvement
- Mild irritation, dryness, or sensitivity to light may persist for several days.
- Most people find that their eyes feel much better by the end of the first week.
One to Three Months: Lingering Dryness
- Some degree of dryness or mild irritation can linger for weeks to months as the cornea and nerves continue to heal.
- Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help manage these symptoms.
- For the majority, dry eye symptoms improve significantly by the three-month mark.
Rarely, Up to a Year
- In rare cases, mild dry eye or scratchiness may last up to six months or even a year, but persistent discomfort beyond that is uncommon and should be discussed with your eye doctor.
What Factors Affect How Long Eyes Feel Scratchy?
- Pre-existing dry eye: People with dry eyes before LASIK may experience longer-lasting symptoms.
- Corneal healing speed: Individual healing rates vary.
- Age and hormone levels: Older adults and women may have more pronounced dryness.
- Environmental factors: Dry air, wind, or screen use can worsen symptoms.
- Postoperative care: Using prescribed drops and following aftercare instructions speeds healing.
How to Soothe Scratchy Eyes After LASIK?
Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
- Use all prescribed antibiotic and lubricating eye drops as directed.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, even if they itch or feel gritty.
Rest and Protect Your Eyes
- Rest your eyes as much as possible in the first 24–48 hours.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect from wind and light.
- Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and dusty environments for at least a week.
Use Artificial Tears
- Preservative-free artificial tears can provide soothing relief from dryness and scratchiness.
- Use as often as needed, especially if spending time on screens or in air conditioning.
Avoid Irritants
- Avoid exposure to smoke, dust, and strong fumes.
- Reduce your screen time and take regular breaks to help prevent eye strain.
Sleep and Hydration
- Get plenty of sleep to help your eyes heal.
- Stay hydrated to support tear production.
Why Is It Important to Address Scratchy Eyes After LASIK?
Ignoring scratchy or dry eyes after LASIK can lead to complications such as infections, delayed healing, or even regression of vision correction. Proper management not only improves comfort but also supports the best possible visual outcome.
Additional Tips for Managing Scratchy Eyes
- Use a humidifier: Especially in dry or air-conditioned environments, a humidifier can add moisture to the air and reduce eye dryness.
- Blink regularly: When using screens, consciously blink more often to keep your eyes lubricated.
- Avoid smoke and allergens: These can irritate your eyes and worsen dryness.
When to Expect Full Recovery?
While most patients feel comfortable within a week, the cornea continues to heal and remodel for several months. During this time, your vision may fluctuate slightly, and occasional dryness or scratchiness can occur, especially in challenging environments.
How Eye Care Professionals Help?
Your eye doctor may recommend additional treatments if dryness or scratchiness persists, such as:
- Prescription eye drops: Medications like cyclosporine or lifitegrast can reduce inflammation and improve tear production.
- Punctal plugs: Small devices inserted into the tear ducts to reduce tear drainage and keep eyes moist.
- Scleral lenses: Special contact lenses that protect and hydrate the cornea.
Real Patient Experiences
Many LASIK patients report that the scratchy feeling was the most noticeable symptom in the first few days, but improved quickly with eye drops and rest. Some share that using preservative-free artificial tears regularly made a big difference in comfort.
When Should You Call Your Doctor?
While scratchy eyes are a normal part of LASIK recovery, contact your surgeon if you experience:
- Severe or increasing pain
- Persistent redness or swelling
- Sudden decrease in vision
- Discharge or signs of infection
- Scratchiness lasting longer than a week without improvement
Timely action can help prevent problems and promote a seamless recovery.
Tips for a Smooth LASIK Recovery
- Use all prescribed and recommended drops faithfully.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, even if they feel itchy.
- Take breaks from screens and avoid bright lights.
- Keep up with all follow-up appointments.
- Stay patient—healing is a process, and most discomfort is temporary.
Summary Table: Managing Scratchy Eyes After LASIK
| Timeframe | Symptoms | Care Tips |
| 0-3 days | Intense scratchiness, dryness | Use prescribed drops, rest, avoid rubbing |
| 4-7 days | Reduced discomfort, improving vision | Continue drops, wear sunglasses, limit screens |
| 1-3 months | Occasional dryness, mild irritation | Use preservative-free artificial tears, attend follow-up visits |
Enjoying Clear Vision After LASIK
Scratchy eyes after LASIK are a normal, temporary part of the healing process, usually improving within a few days and rarely lasting beyond a few months.
With good aftercare and support from your eye doctor, you can look forward to comfortable, clear vision as your eyes recover. If you have concerns or your symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance—your comfort and vision are worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for my eyes to feel scratchy after LASIK?
Yes, mild scratchiness, dryness, or grittiness is very common and usually temporary.
How soon will the scratchy feeling go away?
Most people feel much better within 24–72 hours, with lingering dryness or mild irritation improving over weeks to months.
Can I use over-the-counter drops for relief?
Yes, preservative-free artificial tears are safe and effective for soothing scratchy eyes after LASIK.
What if my eyes still feel scratchy after a month?
Mild dryness can persist for weeks or months, but if you have ongoing discomfort or new symptoms, check with your eye doctor for further evaluation and treatment.