LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is one of the most popular and effective procedures for correcting vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. But while its benefits are well-known, many people considering LASIK still wonder what the full experience actually looks like—from preparation to recovery.
Planning and Preparation
The LASIK experience begins well before you enter the operating room. A thorough pre-operative process helps determine whether you’re a good candidate and sets the foundation for a smooth surgery.
✔️ Consultation and Screening
Patients undergo a series of detailed eye exams, including:
- Corneal thickness measurement
- Eye surface mapping
- Pupil size analysis
- Tear film evaluation
This helps determine whether LASIK—or an alternative—is the safest option.
✔️ Contact Lens Break
Soft contact lens users are typically asked to stop wearing lenses 3 weeks before the consultation. Rigid or hard lenses may require a 7–14 day break. This allows the cornea to return to its natural shape for accurate assessment.
✔️ Day-Before Checklist
Leading up to the surgery day, patients are advised to:
- Avoid wearing makeup, perfume, or lotion
- Wash hair and shower before surgery (to avoid post-op water contact)
- Wear button-up clothing (to avoid touching the face post-surgery)
You’ll also need to arrange transportation, as you won’t be able to drive home after the procedure.
What Actually Happens
One of the most common questions patients ask is: What does LASIK surgery feel like? The good news—it’s quick and virtually painless.
✔️ Step-by-Step Breakdown
- Numbing Drops
Eye drops are used to completely numb your eyes. You may feel pressure, but no pain. - Laser Surgery
Surgical method will differ according to the patient’s chosen plan of treatment. - Immediate Rest
You’ll rest briefly at the clinic and receive post-op instructions before heading home.
⏱️ Duration
The entire process takes 10–15 minutes per eye, though expect to be at the clinic for 1–2 hours in total.
Recovery and Care
Post-op recovery is usually fast, but proper care is key to long-term success.
✔️ First 24 Hours
- Vision may be blurry or hazy right after surgery.
- Most patients experience mild dryness, watery eyes, or light sensitivity.
- Resting your eyes and not rubbing them is critical.
✔️ Medication and Eye Protection
You’ll be prescribed:
- Antibiotic drops (to prevent infection)
- Anti-inflammatory drops (to reduce swelling)
- Lubricating artificial tears
Most clinics recommend wearing an eye shield at night for the first week.
✔️ Restrictions and Healing
During the first week:
- Avoid water near the eyes (swimming, steam rooms, heavy showering)
- No eye makeup or face creams
- Avoid dusty environments and rubbing your eyes
Normal daily activities usually resume within 1–2 days, but full healing takes several weeks.
📅 Follow-up Visits
A typical schedule includes check-ups at:
- 1 day
- 1 week
- 1 month
- 3 months (and possibly 6 or 12 months depending on the case)
