Flow3 Laser Eye Surgery: Preparation & Recovery Guide

Is laser right for you?
Answer 5 questions and get a free assessment of your vision.
Take the testNo commitment — just an honest answer about your vision.
The Flow3 procedure is one of the fastest and safest ways to correct myopia. To ensure everything runs smoothly on the day and that your recovery is as seamless as possible, a little preparation goes a long way.
Before Your Procedure
-
Contact lens break. Stop wearing contact lenses at least 10 days before your appointment and procedure. Lenses affect the shape of your cornea, and we need time for it to stabilise naturally before we operate. This gives us the most accurate results.
-
Avoid alcohol. Skip alcohol for 24 hours before and one week after your procedure. Alcohol dehydrates tissue, which increases dry eye discomfort and can slow healing.
-
Pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, wait at least 4 months after either ends before having laser surgery. We use medications and eye drops during and after the procedure that aren't suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
On Procedure Day
-
Clear your schedule. Take the day off — ideally the whole week. Many of our patients use it as an excuse to take time off work. You'll want to rest.
-
No makeup or cosmetics. Skip makeup, eyeliner, nail polish, hairspray and perfume. Particles can interfere with the laser and contaminate the sterile environment.
-
Eat a proper breakfast. Have a full meal in the morning. You'll need to take some medications at the clinic, and fasting isn't necessary for Flow3.
-
Wear comfortable clothes. Dress in something that makes you feel at ease. This matters more than you'd think.
-
Arrange childcare. If you have young children, find someone to look after them.
-
Plan your transport. Vision immediately after the procedure can be slightly unclear. We strongly advise against driving. KSA Silmakeskus offers free taxi transport within Tallinn for patients right after their procedure — or arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home.
After Your Procedure
-
Keep your eyes lubricated. Use the eye drops we provide according to the schedule we give you. In the first week, more is better. Once you finish the course, pick up lubricating drops from a pharmacy to use as needed. Dry eyes are common during recovery, and staying on top of it makes a real difference.
-
Give your screen time a break. You can read and watch TV in moderation, but avoid straining your eyes. Stop if they feel uncomfortable or tired. Your eyes have been through a lot.
-
Stick to gentle activities. Walk outdoors, do light housework, or gentle stretching. Time in fresh air boosts oxygen levels, helps you feel better and supports healing. Rest is what you need most in these early weeks.
-
Protect from bright light. Wear the protective sunglasses we provide when you're in bright sunlight. Your eyes will be more sensitive than usual.
-
Avoid swimming and contact sports. Stay out of pools, hot tubs and chlorinated water for at least a week. If you're a regular athlete, ask us about when you can safely return to your sport — one of the big advantages of Flow3 is that it's flapless, making it safer for active people.
Recovery typically takes about one week. Most patients see clear results within that time, though your vision may continue to refine over the next few weeks. If you have any concerns during recovery, don't wait — contact us.
Author
KSA Silmakeskus
KSA Vision Clinic
KSA Vision Clinic is Estonia's leading eye clinic, specialising in Flow3 laser correction, dry eye diagnostics and treatment, and comprehensive eye examinations. Our blog shares expert knowledge about eye health.


