Laser eye surgery has transformed the lives of millions by offering a lasting solution to vision correction. If you’re considering this procedure, it’s natural to feel apprehensive, particularly about pain.
The good news is that advancements in technology and exceptional clinical care have made laser eye surgery a painless and comfortable experience for most people. After the procedure, you may feel pressure or a slight burning sensation, but those side effects are typically temporary.
Types of Laser Eye Surgery
LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis) is a common laser eye surgery procedure, but it’s not the only procedure available. Many eye doctors and surgeons also recommend PRK (photo-refractive keratectomy) for their patients. The type we recommend for you will depend on your goals and eye health.
LASIK is the most common form of laser eye surgery and typically has a shorter healing time than PRK. It involves creating a flap in your corneal tissue that allows surgeons to correct the deeper tissue with a laser. The flap then acts like a bandage for the eye.
PRK was the first form of laser eye surgery and is often recommended over LASIK for people with thin corneas or dry eyes. Rather than creating a flap of corneal tissue, PRK involves removing the top layer of tissue. The removed tissue grows back on its own after the procedure and a specialty contact lens is used to protect the eye while you recover.
LASEK combines the process of LASIK and PRK. It involves creating an ultra-thin flap of tissue. The tissue is not removed, but a specialty contact lens is still used to protect the eye during recovery.
Why Laser Eye Surgery Is Usually Painless
The thought of a laser near your eyes can sound intimidating, but the truth is that laser eye surgery is specifically designed to be as painless as possible. Your surgeon will apply numbing eye drops before the procedure begins. These drops effectively block any sensation in your eye, including pain.
Additionally, modern lasers are quicker and more precise than ever, significantly reducing discomfort. The entire process typically takes 15–20 minutes for both eyes, with the laser portion lasting only seconds.
Most patients report feeling nothing more than slight pressure during the procedure—far from the sharp, jarring pain one might imagine.
Potential Complications That May Cause Pain
While laser eye surgery is generally painless, certain rare complications could lead to discomfort or pain, including:
- Dry eye: Some patients develop dryness after getting laser eye surgery, which can cause temporary irritation. This is usually managed with lubricating eye drops.
- Flap issues: Because LASIK involves creating a small flap on the cornea, improper healing can occur, leading to discomfort. This is rare and often resolvable with medical attention.
Inflammation or infection could also occur in isolated cases. Prompt follow-up care minimizes the risk of any serious complications. Following your aftercare instructions and attending all scheduled post-operative appointments is essential. We will help monitor your healing process to address any concerns early.
Tips to Be Best Prepared for Laser Eye Surgery
Preparation can ensure a smooth experience before, during, and after laser eye surgery. Here are our top tips for a stress-free appointment:
- Rest up: Get a good night’s sleep the day before your procedure.
- No makeup or perfume: To minimize contamination risks, avoid wearing eye makeup, lotions, or fragrances on the day of surgery.
- Arrange a ride home: You’ll need help getting home as your vision will be temporarily blurry.
Don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon for clarification on any part of the procedure. A well-informed patient is a confident patient.
If It Doesn’t Hurt, Then How Uncomfortable Is Laser Eye Surgery?
While it doesn’t hurt, asking whether laser eye surgery feels uncomfortable is fair. For most people, the experience is surprisingly smooth. Here’s what you may notice:
- Mild pressure: You may feel light pressure during specific procedures, especially when creating the corneal flap for LASIK.
- Bright lights: The laser is guided by a bright light, which some patients find intense but manageable.
- Sensation of watering eyes: After surgery, your eyes may feel watery for a few hours.
None of these sensations are usually painful and they typically subside within minutes to hours. Your surgical team will strive to help you feel comfortable before, during, and after the procedure.
Anesthesia & Sedation
Local numbing drops are the primary method to ensure a pain-free experience. These drops prevent you from feeling sensations in the eyes.
Some clinics also offer mild sedation options, such as anti-anxiety medication, to help you relax. If you feel nervous, feel free to speak with your doctor beforehand.
Can You Blink During Laser Eye Surgery?
We know holding your eyes open for surgery may feel daunting, but don’t worry—you cannot accidentally blink during the procedure.
A small device called a lid speculum gently holds your eyelids open. Modern lasers are also equipped with advanced eye-tracking technology. If your eye moves slightly, the laser automatically adjusts or pauses, ensuring accuracy and safety.
Is There Pain After Laser Eye Surgery?
Most patients experience no significant pain after laser eye surgery, but mild discomfort can occur for a few hours after the procedure. Common sensations include:
- Burning and discomfort: This is temporary and often feels like having an eyelash in your eye.
- Sensitivity to light: Sunglasses can help with this during the recovery period.
- Tearing or watery eyes: These typical symptoms tend to subside within 24 hours.
Your surgeon may recommend lubricating drops, anti-inflammatory medication, or pain relievers to help manage any immediate post-surgery discomfort.
Best Practices for Post Laser Eye Surgery Care
The first 24–48 hours after laser eye surgery are crucial for your recovery. Follow these best practices for optimal healing:
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, especially in the first week.
- Use any prescribed eye drops as directed to prevent dryness and infection.
- Wear protective goggles while sleeping to avoid accidentally touching your eyes.
- Refrain from swimming or using hot tubs for at least 2 weeks.
- Attend all post-operative checkups to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Side Effects of Laser Eye Surgery
Although procedures like LASIK and PRK are highly safe and effective, you may experience some temporary side effects, including:
- Halos or glare: Some patients notice halos around lights at night, but this typically improves within weeks.
- Fluctuating vision: Your vision may fluctuate slightly during healing but will stabilize over time.
- Dry eyes: Temporary dryness is common and can be managed with lubricating drops.
If you experience severe pain, significant redness, or sudden vision loss, contact your surgeon or eye doctor immediately. These could indicate complications that require prompt treatment.
Reclaim Your Vision—Without the Pain
At Willoughby Doctors of Optometry, we know that laser eye surgery can arouse feelings of anxiety. That’s why we sit down with you to ensure you understand the overall process and can be as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Contact us today to book a laser eye surgery consultation. Let’s discuss your unique needs and take a step towards a life with clearer vision.
