What to Expect

Laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery, is a procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) in order to correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. During the procedure, a laser is used to remove a small amount of tissue from the cornea, thereby altering its shape. By reshaping the cornea, the laser helps to correct the way light enters the eye, improving vision.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during laser eye surgery. Anaesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye, and some patients may feel slight pressure or a sensation of an instrument near the eye. After the procedure, there may be some mild discomfort or dryness, but this can typically be managed with eye drops and subsides within a few days.

While laser eye surgery is generally considered safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. Possible complications include dry eyes, glare or halos around lights, fluctuating vision, overcorrection or undercorrection of vision, infection, and vision loss (rare). It’s important to discuss these risks with your eye care professional.

The recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure performed. With LASIK, most people experience improved vision within a day or two and can resume normal activities within a week. PRK may require a longer recovery period, with vision gradually improving over several weeks. Your eye care professional will provide specific instructions for your recovery.