Many people consider laser vision correction at the beginning of the year, when planning New Year’s resolutions, or in the autumn when returning to work or studies. Summer, however, is often dismissed as an unsuitable time for the procedure due to outdated information or beliefs. A microsurgeon Vaidas Vilda, at Lirema Eye Clinic refutes myths.
According to the doctor, the season should have the least influence on this life-changing decision. What matters most is finding a few free days to rest your eyes after the procedure.
“Healing after laser vision correction occurs the same way in all seasons. Depending on the chosen correction method, the most important thing is to have a few days of rest. Summer, typically a more relaxed period with more days off, is ideal for this,“ says the microsurgeon.
Myth 1: You can not be in the sun after laser eye surgery
According to the microsurgeon, some patients, upon hearing that they will need to protect their eyes from the sun and wear sunglasses for about a month after the procedure, imagine that they will not be able to leave the house.
“After laser vision correction, eyes become more sensitive to light for a while, but you can still travel and enjoy life by wearing quality sunglasses with UV protection. With the latest technologies like SURFACE (TRANS PRK / LASEK or NO CUT), FEMTO, or SMILE, healing is fast, and additional protective measures ensure safety even in intense sunlight,“ the specialist explains.
Myth 2: Heat and sweat interfere with eye healing
Microsurgeons recommend avoiding activities that cause excessive sweating in the first weeks after laser eye correction, but sweat itself isn’t harmful if proper hygiene is maintained.
“During the healing period, protecting the eyes from dirt is essential – that applies in all seasons, not just summer. Dirt may get into the eyes through heavy sweating, so although intense exercise should be avoided in the early weeks, you can wear a sports headband or choose lighter, non-contact sports,“ V. Vilda advises.
Myth 3: You will not be able to relax by the lake or sea
A few days after the procedure, you can fully enjoy resting near bodies of water if you follow your doctor’s instructions.
“After laser eye correction, patients can fly without restrictions and shower as usual. For the first 3–4 weeks, while using eye drops, it’s advised not to dive into standing water like lakes or pools, but relaxing by the water is fine,“ the microsurgeon notes.
After that, patients can enjoy all summer activities depending on the chosen technology and individual circumstances.
Myth 4: The risk of complications increases
Some patients believe that warmer weather in summer leads to more bacteria and a higher risk of infection. However, bacteria levels remain the same; people simply travel more in summer. Protecting your eyes from dirt is essential year-round.
“Laser eye surgery procedure is performed under the highest sterility standards yearly. Additionally, antibiotic drops after the procedure protect the eyes from infection regardless of weather or location. Proper eye healing is a complex process, and if general recommendations are followed, there’s no need to worry about warm weather,“ shares his experience, Vaidas Vilda.
Myth 5: I will not recover in time for a meaningful summer event
With surface correction methods like TRANS PRK / LASEK or NO CUT, the first few postoperative days may require rest as the corneal surface and epithelial layer heal. But with FS-LASIK (FEMTO LASIK) or SMILE methods, you won’t lose productivity and will feel well the next day.
“FEMTO and SMILE methods ensure extremely fast healing and minimal discomfort. For this reason, you can attend your important event the next day,“ the doctor says.
Find out whether laser eye surgery is available for you online here.