Housework and Laser Eye Surgery: Essential Guidance from Blue Fin Vision®
- Posted
- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: August 14, 2025
Laser eye surgery has revolutionised vision correction, delivering the freedom to live without glasses and contact lenses. At Blue Fin Vision®, we understand that many patients are eager to return to their daily lives – including housework – as soon as possible. Here, our Harley Street team of top-rated, leading surgeons shares authoritative advice on managing housework after laser eye surgery, empowering you to achieve a smooth recovery while safeguarding your vision.
Located in the heart of London’s prestigious medical district, our eye clinic is home to the best doctors and advanced technology, offering a complete range of vision correction options, from LASIK and PRK to LASEK, SMILE, PresbyMAX©, and PRESBYOND©. This guide details how to resume household tasks with confidence after your procedure, with care tailored to your unique needs.
Understanding Laser Eye Surgery and Your Options
At Blue Fin Vision®, we provide a full spectrum of laser eye surgery solutions, each designed to correct various refractive errors, enhance quality of life, and minimise reliance on optical aids. The procedures we offer include:
- LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): The most common form, using a femtosecond laser to create a corneal flap and an excimer laser to reshape the cornea for rapid recovery and minimal discomfort.
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): A surface procedure, ideal for patients with thinner corneas, where the outer corneal layer is removed and the shape refined with an excimer laser.
- LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis): Like PRK, the eye is numbed, and the laser is applied directly to the corneal surface, with the epithelium naturally healing over the area after precise corneal reshaping.
- SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): A minimally invasive technique, removing a lenticule of tissue through a small keyhole incision, avoiding large flaps.
- PresbyMAX© and PRESBYOND©: Pioneering technology for presbyopia, customising the laser profile to improve near and distance vision in ageing eyes.
All treatments are delivered with impeccable precision and personalisation by our top specialists and leading surgeons at our Harley Street facilities in London.
Housework After Laser Eye Surgery: What to Expect
Immediate Aftercare (First 48–72 Hours)
- Rest is essential: Refrain from all forms of housework and strenuous activity, including bending, lifting, vacuuming, or mopping.
- Shield your eyes: Use eye protection provided, particularly while sleeping, and avoid environments with high dust or chemical exposure.
- No eye rubbing: Absolutely avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, irrespective of the surgical technique used.
First Week of Recovery
- Light household activity: After the initial rest period, gentle tidying, cooking, and basic tasks may be resumed, provided you feel comfortable and your recovery is progressing well.
- Avoid water and dust: Do not undertake wet work (such as deep kitchen or bathroom cleaning) or tasks generating dust and airborne particles.
- Eye drops and hygiene: Use prescribed lubricating and antibiotic drops as directed. Wash hands thoroughly before touching your face or eye area.
Two to Four Weeks Post-Surgery
- Gradually increase chores: Most patients can return to regular housework by week two. This includes vacuuming, laundry, and other cleaning, provided you avoid direct trauma and take care with chemicals.
- Outdoor or intense activity: Gardening, window washing, or home repairs should wait until full clearance is given by your surgeon, especially for surface laser procedures like PRK or LASEK.
- Continued protection: Sunglasses are advisable outdoors, even indoors if you are sensitive to light.
Longer-Term Considerations
- Surface treatments (PRK, LASEK): Recovery may take longer, with extended avoidance advised for dusty or smoky environments (often three to four weeks).
- SMILE and LASIK: These often allow faster return to routine activities, but individual healing varies.
- Presbyopia treatments (PresbyMAX©, PRESBYOND©): Mild visual changes and gradual improvement are common; follow provided activity timelines.
Managing Typical Side Effects and Enhancing Comfort
- Dry eye or discomfort: Use regular artificial tears and take breaks during tasks that require forward concentration (such as sorting or folding laundry).
- Light sensitivity or halos: Wear sunglasses and avoid bright, sunlit areas if symptoms are bothersome.
- Monitor for issues: Contact the clinic immediately if you notice persistent pain, vision loss, increased redness, or signs of infection (such as discharge).
Our best-in-class aftercare ensures any concerns are addressed swiftly, maintaining both your safety and peace of mind.
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® as Your Eye Clinic?
Blue Fin Vision® has earned a reputation as a trusted, top-rated eye clinic in London by consistently delivering clinical excellence and truly personalised care:
- Unparalleled expertise: Our surgeons are recognised as leaders in the field, performing a high volume of procedures with exemplary outcomes.
- Advanced technology: We invest in continual innovation, bringing you the latest in diagnostic and laser platforms for maximum precision and safety.
- Tailored care: You are never just a number. Every treatment is uniquely planned, and every recovery closely monitored to suit your lifestyle goals.
- Holistic support: From your first visit to your final review, you’re guided by a compassionate team dedicated entirely to your vision and wellbeing.
The Next Step: Enjoy Independence Safely
Household chores are part of everyday life – and with thoughtful post-operative care, you can return to them comfortably and safely. At Blue Fin Vision®, our team ensures your transition from surgery to full independence is seamless.
Ready to discover life without glasses or contact lenses? Trust your vision to the best at Blue Fin Vision®. Our Harley Street clinic offer world-class expertise and the reassurance of leading surgeons, top specialists, and an unrivalled patient journey.
Book your consultation today with London’s premier laser eye surgery team at Blue Fin Vision®. Let us help you achieve precise vision correction and a confident return to all the things you love – including housework.
