Is Laser Eye Surgery Painful?
16 August 2019
A common misconception around Laser Eye Surgery is that it will be painful. Many patients fear this the most.
The truth of the matter is that the procedure itself is virtually pain free, due to the anaesthetic drops that are applied prior to the procedure. Even during the recovery period, the pain factor is very low.
If fear is holding you back, read on to learn the truth about Laser Eye Surgery.
Does Laser Eye Surgery hurt?
Prior to the procedure the eyes with be prepped with local anaesthetic. Once this has taken effect your eyes will be numb and ready to go.
You may be surprised to hear that the surgery lasts for an average of 20 minutes, for both eyes from start to finish. The laser itself is applied to the eye for around 30 seconds- seriously, it really is that quick!
We’d also like to clear up a common myth concerning the lasers used for this procedure. Despite what certain films would have you believe, the lasers we use do not emit any heat and therefore cannot burn any part of the eye.
What happens during Laser Eye Surgery?
You may have heard the terms LASEK and LASIK thrown around during your research. These are simply two different methods in performing laser eye surgery. Both methods can treat short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism, which will be determined during your assessment.
The differences between the two are:
During LASIK a small layer is created just below the top layer of the eye. This is lifted to allow the laser to be applied and then repositioned. LASIK is the most common technique for laser eye surgery and suitable for most patients.
LASEK will be recommended for patients who are not suitable for LASIK. Don’t panic, we don’t expect you to know the differences between the two; this will all be discussed in detail during consultation.
If you have a high prescription, thin corneas, drier eyes or a particularly active lifestyle, LASEK will be recommended for you.
During LASEK the outer most cells of the eye are loosened and carefully moved to allow the laser to enter. The cells are then gently repositioned and the protective contact lens is applied.
Recovery from Laser Eye Surgery
Recovery from Laser Eye Surgery is remarkably quick; 3-5 days for most patients. There may be slight discomfort during this time; however the eye drops provided in the aftercare package will relieve this.
It is incredibly important that you attend all of your aftercare appointments. This not only ensures a safe recovery but keeps your lifetime guarantee valid too.
Recovery for LASIK and LASEK can be slightly different. Let’s explain…
LASEK
After LASEK, a protective contact lens will be placed on the eye to shield it from the outside world. This will be removed 3-4 days after surgery.
Patients who have undergone LASEK report mild discomfort or stinging but simple pain relief will help. As with LASIK, we advise that you avoid swimming or rubbing your eyes for 4-5 weeks post-surgery.
LASIK
Recovery from LASIK is generally more comfortable than with LASEK, however light sensitivity is more common; this will subside within a few days.
LASIK patients are also more likely to experience dry eyes; this is temporary and the eye drops can be applied to counteract this side effect.
What do our patients have to say?
Sam Patterson
“The actual surgery was completely painless and over in 10 minutes and has honestly changed my life. If you're considering getting laser eye surgery, I highly recommend Ultralase in Liverpool”.
Paige Morgan
“Service before and after treatment was top standard and really appreciate how friendly and calm the staff were to make me feel at ease for the procedure. Fast and painless procedure and I could see clearly after 24 hours. After 21 years I can finally see through my own two eyes”.
Valerie Wild
“I was particularly nervous as I really don't like fiddling around my eyes - even putting contact lenses in was too much of an ordeal but the Dr and the nursing team couldn't have been more helpful and put me at ease instantly. I had nothing to worry about and it was a totally painless experience”.
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