Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is one of the most popular and effective vision correction surgeries available today. Designed to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and snu eye clinic astigmatism, LASIK can significantly reduce — and in many cases, eliminate — the need for glasses or contact lenses. If you’re considering this procedure, understanding what to expect before, during, and after surgery can help ease anxiety and prepare you for a successful outcome.
Before LASIK: The Evaluation Process
The journey to clearer vision begins with a comprehensive eye examination. Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK, so your ophthalmologist will conduct a detailed evaluation to determine your eligibility.
What’s included in the pre-operative evaluation?
- Corneal thickness measurement: LASIK reshapes the cornea, so a minimum thickness is required to ensure safety.
- Pupil size and eye health assessment: Large pupils may increase the risk of night vision issues, while conditions like dry eye or cataracts could make you ineligible.
- Prescription stability: You must have a stable prescription for at least 12 months before undergoing LASIK.
- Medical history review: Autoimmune disorders, pregnancy, or certain medications may impact healing or outcomes.
If you’re a suitable candidate, your doctor will explain the procedure in detail, discuss potential risks, and help set realistic expectations. You’ll also be advised to stop wearing contact lenses for a week or more before surgery, as they can temporarily alter the shape of your cornea.
During LASIK: The Day of Surgery
LASIK is a quick outpatient procedure — most treatments take only about 10–15 minutes for both eyes. However, the overall time at the clinic may be about 1–2 hours.
Here’s what you can expect on surgery day:
- No pain, just mild discomfort: Numbing eye drops are applied before the surgery to prevent pain. You’ll remain awake, but may be given a mild sedative to help you relax.
- Creating the corneal flap: A femtosecond laser or a microkeratome creates a thin flap on the cornea. This flap is gently lifted to allow laser reshaping underneath.
- Laser reshaping: A computer-controlled excimer laser reshapes your cornea based on your exact prescription. You may hear clicking sounds and be asked to focus on a target light.
- Flap repositioning: After the reshaping, the corneal flap is carefully repositioned without stitches — it adheres naturally as the eye heals.
The actual laser work lasts less than a minute per eye. You may feel mild pressure or see blurry shapes during the procedure, but it is generally painless and quick.
After LASIK: Immediate Recovery and Healing
Once your LASIK procedure is complete, your vision will start to improve within a few hours, but full clarity may take a few days. Your eyes may feel dry, gritty, or slightly irritated — this is completely normal.
Immediate aftercare includes:
- Avoid rubbing your eyes: Even though you may feel discomfort, rubbing your eyes can dislodge the flap and delay healing.
- Use prescribed drops: Your doctor will provide antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and reduce swelling.
- Rest your eyes: You’ll be asked to keep your eyes closed as much as possible and avoid reading, watching screens, or going outside for the first few hours.
- Protective eye shields: Many patients wear shields or goggles while sleeping to prevent accidental eye rubbing.
First Few Days to Weeks: Post-LASIK Adjustment
Most people return to normal activities within 24–48 hours, but some precautions remain important:
- Follow-up appointments: You’ll need to return to your ophthalmologist for check-ups to ensure proper healing.
- Limit physical activity: Avoid swimming, hot tubs, contact sports, and dusty environments for a few weeks.
- Manage dry eyes: Dryness is common after LASIK. Artificial tears and other doctor-recommended solutions help ease the discomfort.
Vision may fluctuate during the first week, especially in low light. Halos, glare, and starbursts around lights are common but usually fade as your eyes heal.
Long-Term Results and Expectations
LASIK offers life-changing results for millions of people. Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better, with a very high satisfaction rate. However, individual outcomes can vary.
What to expect long-term:
- Stable vision: Once healing is complete (typically in 3–6 months), your vision should remain stable for years.
- Touch-up procedures: In rare cases, a second procedure (enhancement) may be needed if vision regresses.
- Reading glasses later in life: LASIK doesn’t prevent presbyopia — the age-related loss of near vision — so you may still need reading glasses in your 40s or 50s.
- Low risk of complications: While side effects are rare, some people may experience prolonged dry eye or night vision problems. Choosing an experienced surgeon greatly reduces risks.
Conclusion
Undergoing LASIK can be one of the most rewarding health decisions you’ll ever make. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, you’ll feel more confident and informed. With proper screening, skilled surgery, and careful aftercare, LASIK
offers a safe and effective path to visual freedom — often changing lives overnight.