Does LASIK hurt? It’s one of the first questions many people ask when considering the procedure. The idea of a laser reshaping the cornea sounds like it could be uncomfortable.
But the honest answer is that most people don’t experience LASIK as pain during the procedure. Instead, they report pressure or an odd sensation.
Before the procedure
Before treatment, you’ll receive some numbing eye drops. These are important because they anesthetize the surface of the eye so the treatment itself doesn’t sting.
During the procedure
During the procedure, you’ll be awake. You’ll be lying comfortably, and the sensations in your eye during the laser treatment are usually not painful, even if they don’t feel normal.
You’ll look at a soft target light with a small device that holds your eyelids open, so you don’t have to worry about blinking. You may feel pressure during the portion of the procedure when the corneal flap is created, and your vision may temporarily dim or appear grey.
During the procedure, you may also hear a faint clicking sound and smell an unusual smell. Medical staff can talk to you about what to expect during the procedure, so there are no surprises,
Laser suite time is usually 15 minutes. The laser reshaping itself often takes just 20 to 30 seconds per eye.
The first few hours after treatment
The first few hours after treatment are when discomfort is most likely to occur. During this time, eye drops wear off, and many people experience a gritty feeling in their eyes or sensitivity to light.
There may also be watering or burning sensations, but even so, most people describe the experience as “irritating” rather than “painful.” Your surgeon will provide specific instructions for resting and caring for your eyes during the first several hours after treatment.
The next 24-48 hours
During the following 24 to 48 hours after surgery, vision improves quickly, although it can fluctuate. You can also experience episodes of haziness or see halos around lights. Note that sensations and recovery experiences vary among patients, so your experience will likely be unique.
Be aware that dryness is common after surgery for the first few days and weeks, so you may need to carry some drops with you. Follow your doctor’s instructions and prescriptions, whether that’s applying drops to your eyes or wearing protective shields.
Most surgeons will recommend a follow-up appointment the day after the surgery.
Every LASIK experience is different
If you’re wondering, ‘Does LASIK hurt?’ it’s important to remember that every patient’s experience and tolerance for discomfort can be different. At Laser Eye Center in Huntsville, Dr. Danny Lee understands that every patient has a different experience and tolerance of pain. For example, you may notice more irritation early on or have an uncomfortable LASIK recovery.
Fortunately, we’re here to consult with you and manage any issues that you may experience, always finding the right treatment for you. A comprehensive LASIK consultation can help determine whether laser vision correction is appropriate for your eyes, vision and individual needs.
To learn more, read our article on how long LASIK results last and what to expect over the years following treatment. Our team is happy to assist you with next steps and consult with you on likely treatment outcomes.
Schedule your consultation with us to learn about what LASIK feels like and to improve your vision.