{"id":32899,"date":"2025-09-15T12:48:39","date_gmt":"2025-09-15T10:48:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/laser-eye-surgery-in-winter-why-this-winter-is-the-best-time-for-clear-vision\/"},"modified":"2026-09-13T00:03:24","modified_gmt":"2026-09-12T22:03:24","slug":"laser-eye-surgery-in-winter-why-this-winter-is-the-best-time-for-clear-vision","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-in-winter-why-this-winter-is-the-best-time-for-clear-vision\/","title":{"rendered":"Laser Eye Surgery in Winter: why this Winter is the Best Time for Clear Vision"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A stroll through the Vienna Christmas Market, sparkling lights at Rathausplatz, the scent of punch and roasted chestnuts in the air \u2013 and you, right in the middle of it, without fogged-up glasses constantly switching between cold and warm. Or a thrilling descent in the nearby Alps, where you don&#8217;t constantly have to fiddle with ski goggles over your contact lenses. Winter is not only the season for coziness and new beginnings, but also an ideal moment to fulfill the dream of a life without glasses.  <\/p>\n\n<!--more-->\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">More and more patients are consciously opting for <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/laser-eye-surgery-vienna\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/augenlasern-wien\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">laser eye surgery <\/a>during the winter months.<\/strong> Fewer pollen, pleasant healing conditions, and days off around Christmas and New Year create perfect conditions. At the same time, it&#8217;s important to keep an eye on small challenges like dry heating air or the winter sun \u2013 which can be easily managed with simple tips. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key points at a glance: <\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>No pollen, no allergies<\/strong>: perfect healing conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cooler temperatures<\/strong>: less sweat, more comfortable recovery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Holiday season in winter<\/strong>: more rest and recuperation after surgery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Skiing &amp; winter sports<\/strong>: possible again after 2\u20133 weeks with protective goggles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sunglasses remain mandatory<\/strong>: winter sun and snow reflect UV rays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Counteract heating air<\/strong>: with artificial tears and a humidifier<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Winter Can be the Best Time for Laser Eye Surgery <\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fewer Pollen and Allergies <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spring and summer are wonderful &#8211; unless you&#8217;re one of the millions who have to reach for a tissue at every speck of pollen. For allergy sufferers, this often means: <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>watery eyes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>red nose<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>contact lenses that rebel at the slightest pollen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In winter? Absolute peace. No birch, no grasses, no hay fever anywhere. For freshly lasered eyes, this feels like an <strong>all-inclusive wellness vacation<\/strong> &#8211; finally no additional burden disturbing the healing process.   <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More Comfortable Healing Conditions <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Summer heat, sweat, and chlorinated water are like little spoilsports for freshly operated eyes. Winter, on the other hand, is much more forgiving: <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>cooler air &#8211; less sweat, less friction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cozier activities &#8211; a walk instead of an outdoor pool<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>no temptation to jump headfirst into the water<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The healing phase is usually <strong>much more relaxed<\/strong> &#8211; almost as if the season itself is keeping an eye on you. Of course, there are also small pitfalls in winter like dry heating air or cold wind, but with <strong>artificial tears <\/strong>and <strong>good sunglasses<\/strong>, these are quickly managed. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Holidays for Recuperation <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Winter is full of natural breaks: Christmas, New Year, semester holidays. Many patients cleverly use this for their recovery. Imagine:  <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>on the sofa<\/strong> with a good book and clear vision<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Winter walks<\/strong> without fogged-up glasses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ski holidays<\/strong> with newfound freedom<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of having to go straight back to the office with red eyes, winter offers the perfect opportunity to recover in peace. In short:  <strong>Laser eye surgery in winter is not only medically smart. It also fits perfectly into the calendar. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Challenges of Laser Eye Surgery in Winter: and how to Overcome Them <\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not everything in winter is cotton candy and fireplace warmth &#8211; for freshly lasered eyes, there are a few small pitfalls. The good news: They can be easily avoided with simple tricks. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dry Heating Air <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When snowflakes dance outside, heaters inside are running at full blast. While this provides warm coziness, it removes moisture from the air \u2013 and that&#8217;s exactly what eyes lack after laser treatment. <br\/><strong>What helps:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Regularly use <strong>artificial tears<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Place a <strong>humidifier<\/strong> or simply a bowl of water on the heater<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drink enough <strong>water<\/strong> so the body doesn&#8217;t dehydrate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cold and Wind <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A walk through the winter forest sounds romantic &#8211; but for the eyes, icy wind can feel like a small pinprick. Immediately after surgery, they are particularly sensitive. <br\/><strong>Tips for outdoors:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Always wear <strong>sunglasses or ski goggles<\/strong> &#8211; protects against wind, dust, and light<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don&#8217;t take long walks outside in stormy weather in the first few days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prefer <strong>short winter walks<\/strong> with breaks to warm up<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Winter Sun &amp; UV Protection <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The winter sun has something insidious about it: It often seems harmless, but due to snow reflection, it&#8217;s more intense than in summer. This is a real risk for freshly lasered eyes &#8211; glare and UV rays are poison for healing. <br\/><strong>How to keep your eyes protected:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A <strong>high-quality pair of sunglasses with UV-400 protection<\/strong> is mandatory<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When in snow or on the slopes, it&#8217;s best to use <strong>ski goggles with a UV filter<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sunglasses not just on sunny days &#8211; snow also reflects UV light even on cloudy days<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Winter Activities after Laser Eye Surgery &#8211; What&#8217;s Possible when? <\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After laser eye surgery, freedom of vision is immediately noticeable, but for sports, the rule is: gradually return to training. Especially in winter, when skiing, saunas, or gyms beckon, you should follow the correct sequence. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Light Exercise &amp; Fitness<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just a few days after the procedure, you can engage in light activity again \u2013 it&#8217;s important that no sweat gets into your eyes.<br\/><strong>Recommended:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Walks in the fresh air \u2013 possible from day 1\u20132 <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Light exercise like yoga, cycling on a home trainer, or gymnastics (no headstands)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gym: after approx. 1 week, as long as there is no direct contact with dust or sweat in the eye<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Skiing and Snowboarding<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The slopes are calling &#8211; but please only when your eyes are stable enough. Skiing means not only speed, but also wind, UV rays, and risk of falling. <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>After approx. 2\u20133 weeks<\/strong>, skiing is possible again<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always wear <strong>ski goggles with a UV filter<\/strong> (protection from sun, wind, snow)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No rubbing of the eyes, even after a fall<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Swimming &amp; Wellness<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chlorine, bacteria, and hot air are taboo in the first few weeks. Swimming pools, whirlpools, and saunas can delay healing. <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Sauna &amp; steam bath:<\/strong> earliest after 3\u20134 weeks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Swimming pool &amp; thermal springs:<\/strong> after approx. 4 weeks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Open waters:<\/strong> preferably only after 6 weeks, as the risk of infection is higher here<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In a Nutshell: your Winter Activities after Surgery <\/h3>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><div style=\"overflow-x:auto;-webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch\"><table><caption>When each activity is possible again after laser eye surgery \u2013 from walks to winter sports.<\/caption><thead><tr><th scope=\"col\"><strong>Activity<\/strong><\/th><th scope=\"col\"><strong>Possible from*<\/strong><\/th><th scope=\"col\"><strong>Important notes<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Walks<\/strong><\/td><td>1-2 days<\/td><td>Protective goggles against wind &amp; sun<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Gym<\/strong><\/td><td>approx. 1 week<\/td><td>Avoid sweat, keep hands clean<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Skiing \/ Snowboarding<\/strong><\/td><td>2-3 weeks<\/td><td>Always wear ski goggles with UV filter<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Sauna\/Steam bath<\/strong><\/td><td>3-4 weeks<\/td><td>Be careful with dry air<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Swimming (chlorinated water)<\/strong><\/td><td>at least 4 weeks <\/td><td>Swimming goggles recommended<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Swimming (lake\/sea)<\/strong><\/td><td>approx. 6 weeks<\/td><td>Note higher infection risk<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">*Individual clearance is always given by the treating physician. The &#8220;break times&#8221; presented here are merely rough guidelines and not a free pass.  <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Winter Specifics Depending on the Method <\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every laser eye surgery method heals at the same speed. And in winter, cold, dry air, and outdoor activities play a role that varies in relevance depending on the technique. <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>SmartSight (lenticular extraction)<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Very short healing time, hardly any complaints with dry eyes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Winter sports often possible after 2-3 weeks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ideal for patients who want to return to daily life quickly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Femto-LASIK<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Also fast recovery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slightly more sensitive to dry air and wind in the first few days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sports clearance similar to SmartSight<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>TransPRK<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Surface treatment: healing takes longer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Winter can even be an advantage here, as less sun &amp; sweat irritate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Outdoor sports better started only after 4-6 weeks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lens Surgery in Winter: Does it Make a Difference? <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For very severe refractive errors or presbyopia, <strong>lens implantation (ICL or multifocal lens)<\/strong> is often an option instead of laser surgery. Slightly different rules apply here: <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Advantage in winter:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>No pollen, lower risk of inflammation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Patients can make good use of the quieter season for recovery<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Points to consider:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>UV protection just as important as with laser eye surgery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Better avoid sauna and swimming pool for 4-6 weeks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eyes are sensitive to dry heating air in the first few weeks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In short: Even for lens surgeries, winter is not an obstacle &#8211; on the contrary, it can even be an optimal time.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Laser Eye Surgery in Spring, Summer, Autumn &amp; Winter &#8211; the Comparison <\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><div style=\"overflow-x:auto;-webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch\"><table><caption>Advantages and disadvantages of each season for laser eye surgery.<\/caption><thead><tr><th scope=\"col\">Season<\/th><th scope=\"col\">Advantages<\/th><th scope=\"col\">Disadvantages<\/th><th scope=\"col\">Conclusion<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Spring<\/td><td>Pleasant temperatures, holiday season can be utilized<\/td><td>Pollen (birch, grasses &amp; co.) can irritate eyes<\/td><td>Well suited, but not ideal for allergy sufferers<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Summer<\/td><td>Plenty of leisure time, sun = good mood<\/td><td>UV radiation &amp; chlorinated water, more outdoor activities = higher strain<\/td><td>Possible, but with strict UV protection and caution<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Autumn<\/td><td>Less sun, less pollen, pleasant climate<\/td><td>Shorter days, dry air from heating begins<\/td><td>Very good time &#8211; similar to winter<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Winter<\/td><td>No pollen, holidays for recovery, cooler = less sweat<\/td><td>Dry heating air, cold wind, winter sun <\/td><td>Overall the best season if tips are followed<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tax Aspects of Laser Eye Surgery in Winter <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A small but significant advantage: Anyone who undergoes laser eye surgery in winter &#8211; i.e., towards the end of the year \u2013 can often claim the costs in the same tax year.<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In <strong>Austria<\/strong>, extraordinary expenses can be tax-deductible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Similar applies in <strong>Switzerland<\/strong>: Medical expenses not covered by health insurance are tax-deductible in many cantons.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bonus programs or subsidies from health insurance companies can also be cleverly utilized in winter, e.g., if the annual health budget has not yet been exhausted.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tip: <strong>Keep your invoice safe<\/strong> and ideally ask your tax advisor directly &#8211; this way you save not only on glasses and contact lenses, but also real money.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tips from Dr. Derhartunian for Good Recovery after Laser Eye Surgery in Winter <\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>&#8220;For many of my patients, winter is the perfect time for laser eye surgery &#8211; the only important thing is to follow a few simple rules. Then nothing stands in the way of clear vision in the snow or by the fireplace.&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8211; <strong>Dr. Victor Derhartunian, Specialist in Ophthalmology<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To ensure the most comfortable recovery possible, you should keep a few small things in mind during winter:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Artificial tears are your best friends<\/strong><strong><br\/><\/strong>&#8211; against dry heating air, always have them at hand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sunglasses even in winter<\/strong><br\/>&#8211; protects not only against UV, but also against wind and dazzling snow.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Humidifier instead of desert climate<\/strong><br\/>&#8211; your eyes will thank you if your home isn&#8217;t too dry.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Plan screen time cleverly<\/strong><br\/>&#8211; short breaks when working from home or during a series marathon help your eyes enormously.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Exercise with moderation and protection<\/strong><br\/>&#8211; walks are great, skiing only after doctor&#8217;s approval &#8211; always with protective goggles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Don&#8217;t rub, rather blink<\/strong><br\/>&#8211; even if it itches: blink gently and use drops instead of rubbing your eyes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Charmingly put: Treat your eyes in winter like a freshly bought luxury coat &#8211; don&#8217;t immediately take them for a walk in a snowstorm, but care for, protect, and treat them with extra kindness for a few weeks. Then you&#8217;ll enjoy them for a long time. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Secure your Laser Eye Surgery Appointment this Winter Now <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imagine: Your next winter walk without fogged-up glasses. Skiing with clear vision. Drinking mulled wine without constantly having to adjust your glasses. \u2013 Exactly that could be your reality in just a few weeks.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Winter is not only a season of calm, but also the <strong>perfect moment for change<\/strong>. Use the holiday season and start the new year with new eyes. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Book your free suitability test now<\/strong> at EyeLaser \u2013 and make this winter the winter in which you fulfilled your dream of clear vision.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Questions and Answers about Laser Eye Surgery in Winter <\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is Winter a Good Season for Laser Eye Surgery?#<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes &#8211; winter is even particularly suitable. No pollen, fewer allergies, and many people use holidays or home office for the recovery phase anyway. With a few simple tips, healing becomes pleasant and uncomplicated.   <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does Heating Air Dry out My Eyes more after Surgery?<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"> Yes, dry heating air can irritate freshly lasered eyes. However, artificial tears, a humidifier, and regular ventilation quickly provide relief. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">H3: Can I Ski or Snowboard in Winter after Laser Eye Surgery? <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Skiing and snowboarding are usually possible again after <strong>2-3 weeks<\/strong>. It&#8217;s important to wear well-fitting ski goggles with a UV filter &#8211; they protect against sun, wind, and snow. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I also Have to Wear Sunglasses in Winter?<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Absolutely. Snow reflects UV light even more strongly than water in summer. Therefore, sunglasses with UV-400 protection are mandatory &#8211; even on cloudy days.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Do I Protect My Eyes Outdoors from Cold and Wind? <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Preferably with large sunglasses or ski goggles. They protect not only against wind and cold, but also against glare. Additionally: Do not rub your eyes and use artificial tears regularly.  <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A stroll through the Vienna Christmas Market, sparkling lights at Rathausplatz, the scent of punch and roasted chestnuts in the&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":32875,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[33],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-32899","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-augenlaser-en"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32899","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=32899"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32899\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/32875"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=32899"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=32899"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=32899"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}