Does LASIK hurt?

LASIK surgery doesn’t hurt. Historically, there have been a few laser systems that were claustrophobic and applied pressure on the eye. However, our latest VisuMax laser is exceptionally gentle on the eye. I’ve even had it suck onto my own eye, and it’s really, really gentle. Most patients describe it as having somebody suck on the eye with a straw.

The second part of the procedure involves the excimer laser. This moulds the cornea. You won’t feel a thing. Immediately after the LASIK surgery, the eye is comfortable, and you can see quite well. The afternoon after you’ve had the laser surgery can be quite uncomfortable. The eye can feel a little bit scratchy. We will give you eye drops to use and recommend that you go home and have a little sleep. That usually resolves any tenderness or discomfort in the eye. By the next day, the eyes will feel completely fine.

If you want to know if you’re a good candidate for eye laser surgery, I encourage you to take the suitability quiz. It will take a few minutes of your time and give you a good idea of your suitability and treatment options.