A Step-by-Step Guide for Laser Eye Surgery
If you think that laser eye surgery could be for you then it's useful and reassuring to understand what will happen, step by step.
Firstly, you'll need to book a consultation. This is the perfect chance for you to find out whether laser eye surgery is suitable for you, as well as asking any questions you may have about the whole process. This consultation will take place at the surgery, and could take around an hour or so.
When you go to your consultation it's important to bring with you any glasses that you currently use, as well as a copy of your prescription from your optician. You should not wear your contact lenses for a few hours before the appointment as this can make it difficult to make an accurate measurement of the eye.
You will then have to whole process explained to you, you will go through your eye history, and you will find out which treatment is suitable for you.
The Day of Surgery
If you decide to go ahead with the surgery then you should ask your doctor what the exact procedure will be. In general, laser eye surgery will usually follow this pattern:
In preparation for surgery you'll be given eye drops to numb the area. One eye will be covered up, and the other eye will be taped open to make it easier for the surgeon to work with. They then use a special device to keep your eye wide open throughout the duration of the surgery.
The surgery will involve the protective surface of the eye, the cornea, being cut to create a flap which is then lifted. This flap is either created using a laser or a precision surgical instrument. The laser will then work to reshape the surface of the eye underneath the flap. The flap will not be removed, and will be replaced again after the surgery.
The whole procedure for laser eye surgery is usually extremely short, and can last for around 20 minutes. However, there will be a period of waiting for numbing eye drops to kick in before the surgery will start, as well as a wait after the surgery.
Will It Hurt?
This is one of the most common questions asked of laser eye surgery – 'is it going to hurt?' The answer is no. This is because the numbing eye drops prevent your eye from feeling any pain. What you will feel is a pressure on your eye, which can be mildly uncomfortable. The good news is that this only lasts for a very short period of time.
If your eyes hurt after the procedure then you will be given eye drops to stop the pain.
After Surgery
For more information on the recovery process and results, see our relevant page. However, in the immediate aftermath of the surgery you should not drive yourself home. Ask a friend to help you out, or you can get a taxi. When you arrive home its advisable to go to sleep right away. If you do experience any unpleasant symptoms, which is rare, ask your doctor for advice.