Is LASIK eye surgery painful?

LASIK eye surgery for vision correction is generally not painful, as numbing eye drops are used to anesthetize the surface before the procedure begins [1]. You may feel some pressure on the eye during the surgery, especially when the suction ring is applied to prevent eye movement, and you may notice that vision becomes blurred or black for a brief period [1]. After the surgery, you may feel some discomfort such as itching, burning, or the sensation of a foreign object in your eye, but these symptoms usually disappear within a few hours and may not last more than 6 hours in most cases [2].

What happens during LASIK surgery?

LASIK surgery is performed in an outpatient surgery center or an ophthalmologist's clinic [1]. After numbing the eye with drops, the surgeon places a lid speculum to prevent blinking and a suction ring to stabilize the eye [1]. You may feel mild pressure at this stage [1]. The surgeon then creates a very thin flap in the corneal tissue using a special device or laser, then lifts and folds this flap back [1]. You will be asked to stare at a target light to prevent eye movement while the laser reshapes the cornea [1]. You may hear a clicking sound while the laser is being used [1]. After the cornea is reshaped, the flap is returned to its position and its edges are smoothed; it adheres on its own within 2 to 3 minutes to heal in place [1].

Recovery after LASIK and managing discomfort

After LASIK, your ophthalmologist may place a clear shield over your eye or ask you to wear a shield while sleeping for a few days to protect the eye as it heals [1]. It is very important not to rub the eye after LASIK to prevent the flap from dislodging [2]. It is advised to go home and rest or sleep immediately after the surgery [1]. The surgeon may prescribe mild pain relievers and a sedative to help you relax [2]. You will also be given special eye drops to reduce dryness and help the eye heal [1].

Potential side effects and when they disappear

Most people experience dry eyes and changes in vision during the day after LASIK, and these symptoms usually fade within a month [1]. However, they may take longer to disappear for some people, or they may persist [1]. Other temporary or permanent side effects include: eye pain or discomfort, blurry or unclear vision, glare, halos, starbursts or streaks around lights, double vision, poor night vision, and sensitivity to light [1]. In rare cases, complications such as infection or vision deterioration may occur [1].

When should you seek medical help?

If you experience severe pain or if any symptoms worsen before your scheduled follow-up appointment (usually 24 to 48 hours after surgery), you must contact your eye surgeon immediately [2]. It is also important to discuss all potential risks and benefits of LASIK with your ophthalmologist before making a decision [1]. For more information on whether you are a good candidate for LASIK and what to expect before and after the surgery, you can visit Laser Vision Correction: Are you a good candidate? And what to expect before and after the surgery? (Arabic).

Medical references

• LASIK -- Laser Eye Surgery
• LASIK eye surgery