What to Expect During LASIK Eye Surgery
Written or medically reviewed by Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist
If you are wondering how LASIK eye surgery actually works, whether it hurts, how long recovery takes, or whether you might even be a good candidate in the first place, you are definitely not alone.
These are some of the most common questions patients ask before considering laser vision correction.
If you are thinking about LASIK or PRK surgery, the first step is usually filling out a LASIK candidacy form and having a proper consultation. Dr. Roxanna Gangi is always happy to answer questions, discuss concerns, and help patients better understand whether laser vision correction may be appropriate for their eyes and lifestyle.
For many people, the unknown is the most stressful part. Once patients actually understand what happens before, during, and after LASIK, the procedure usually feels much less intimidating.
The First Step Is a LASIK Consultation
Before surgery is even discussed, patients first go through a detailed eye assessment to determine whether they are suitable candidates for LASIK eye surgery or another vision correction option such as PRK.
During a LASIK consultation, several painless diagnostic tests are usually performed to evaluate:
- Prescription stability
- Corneal thickness
- Eye health
- Dry eye symptoms
- Corneal shape
- Overall candidacy for laser vision correction
Not everybody is automatically a candidate for LASIK, which is why a proper assessment matters. The article Before LASIK or PRK: Why Your First Step Should Be a Surgical Readiness Assessment explains why this stage is so important.
One thing many patients appreciate about working with Dr. Roxanna Gangi is her background. Before practicing as an optometrist in Canada, Dr. Roxanna Gangi previously worked as an ophthalmologist, giving her a deeper understanding of both the surgical and medical side of laser vision correction. Her focus is not simply on whether somebody wants LASIK, but whether LASIK is genuinely the safest and most appropriate option for that person’s eyes.
What Happens on the Day of LASIK Surgery?
Most patients are surprised by how quick the procedure actually is.
On the day of surgery, the surgical team first reviews the procedure and answers any last minute questions. Numbing eye drops are used before the procedure begins, so patients typically do not feel pain during LASIK itself.
Some people describe feeling slight pressure for a few seconds, but most are shocked afterward by how fast the entire experience feels.
The laser portion itself usually lasts less than a minute per eye.
Modern LASIK technology, including Custom LASIK and bladeless LASIK systems, has made the procedure more precise and personalized than ever before. If you want a refresher on how the procedure works, the article What Is LASIK Eye Surgery? walks through it step by step.
Does LASIK Hurt?
This is probably the number one question patients ask.
The procedure itself is generally not considered painful because anesthetic eye drops numb the surface of the eyes beforehand.
After surgery, it is common to experience temporary symptoms such as:
- Mild irritation
- Watery eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Blurry vision
- Dryness
- A gritty sensation
Most of these symptoms improve significantly within the first day or two.
LASIK Recovery Time
Recovery after LASIK is usually much faster than many people expect.
Most patients notice improved vision within the first 24 hours, although vision can continue stabilizing over the following days and weeks.
Patients are usually advised not to drive immediately after surgery and should arrange transportation home.
Eye drops, post operative instructions, and follow up appointments are all important parts of the recovery process.
Many people return to work, screens, and normal daily activities fairly quickly, although healing timelines vary from person to person.
What Results Can You Expect?
LASIK can significantly reduce dependence on glasses and contact lenses for many patients.
For some people, the biggest benefit is convenience. Simple things like traveling, skiing, swimming, working out, or waking up in the middle of the night become easier without constantly searching for glasses or dealing with contact lenses.
Patients who are not suitable candidates for LASIK may still qualify for PRK or other forms of laser vision correction. The article Who Is a Good Candidate for LASIK or PRK? goes deeper into the differences and what makes someone a better fit for one procedure over the other.
If you are curious about how refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism affect vision, try the Vision Simulator available in the Tests section of Dr. Roxanna Gangi’s website.
Ready to Find Out if LASIK Is Right for You?
If you are considering laser vision correction, completing the LASIK candidate form is the best first step toward understanding which options may be right for your eyes. There is no pressure — just a clear, honest review of where you stand.
Related Articles
Thinking About LASIK or PRK?
Find out if you may be a suitable candidate for laser vision correction. Complete the candidacy form and Dr. Roxanna Gangi's team will review your information.
LASIK/PRK Candidacy Form
