How do they keep your eyes open during LASIK?
If you're considering LASIK, one big question you might have is: "How do they keep my eyes open during the procedure?" Trust me, you're not alone in wondering about this.
At Atlantic Eye Laser Centre, we get asked this question all the time. So let's dive right in and explain exactly what happens.
It’s easier than you think
First, relax—keeping your eyes open during LASIK isn't your responsibility. We take care of that for you. You don't need to hold your eyes open or worry about blinking during the procedure.
Meet the lid speculum
We use a simple, gentle tool called a lid speculum. Think of it as a tiny holder that gently keeps your eyelids open so you don’t blink. It's not painful, and it's nothing to stress about. Before we even place it, you'll get numbing eye drops, so you won't feel a thing.
What if my eye moves?
Your eyes might naturally move slightly, but our advanced laser tracks your eye movements precisely. If you move even a tiny bit, the laser instantly adjusts. It can pause or reposition itself immediately if needed, so there’s no risk to your vision.
Will it hurt?
Great news—LASIK doesn't hurt! Most people describe feeling a slight pressure or gentle sensation, but pain isn't part of the deal. Thanks to numbing drops, the entire process is quick, easy, and surprisingly comfortable.
What does LASIK actually feel like?
The whole procedure takes about 10 minutes total, with the actual laser portion lasting just seconds per eye. You’ll lie down, focus on a small blinking light, and before you know it, you're done. Many patients tell us they're surprised at how quickly it's all over.
After the procedure
Right after LASIK, your eyes might feel a bit sensitive or watery. That's completely normal. We recommend you rest your eyes for the rest of the day. Most people see clearly within 24 hours and often even sooner.
Feeling nervous? You’re not alone
Almost everyone feels a bit nervous before LASIK. It’s normal to worry about blinking or moving your eyes, but our experienced team will talk you through each step, helping you feel relaxed and informed every step of the way.
Ready to find out if LASIK is right for you?
Take our quick LASIK suitability self-test today. It's easy, fast, and a great first step to see if clear, hassle-free vision could be in your future.
Find out if you are suitable for laser eye surgery
Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
Our most popular procedures
What our patients say…
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The best care, the best treatment and the best doctors.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Everything was done with care and the doctor explained everything in detail. My surgery was a success and my sight has significantly improved – I no longer use glasses.”
N.N.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“All I can say is WOW! I feel like I have new eyes.
Thank you just doesn’t even began to say how grateful I am. Your hole team is an absolute pleasure to be around. You guys rock”
S.B.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The service is excellent and the doctors are experts in their fields. I felt relaxed and confident that I was in great hands. Staff are warm, friendly and very helpful.”
F.W.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I would refer Dr Beatty to anyone interested in LASIK or PRK eye surgery. The entire experience was really pleasant with his and his staff’s professional advice and care before, during and after the surgery.
I am very thankful to be able to look at the world and go about my day to day activities without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.”
P.M.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Best money spent ever. I am so happy with the results after I had LASIK done.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“BEST decision and results after I had my LASIK done by Doctor Beatty!”
A.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I will definitely recommend Dr Beatty. I am so happy with my LASIK.”
R.B.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Dr Daemon McClunan and the entire staff at Atlantic Eye Centre, Foreshore are beyond AMAZING. The medical care I received from Dr McClunan was outstanding and the staff was always friendly and professional.”
M.M.We have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
Hi, I’m Daemon McClunan
I’m proud to be the founder of both the Atlantic Eye Centre, a leading eye specialist centre; and LIQID Medical Pty, an award-winning biotech company. My passion for research and innovation has led me to create four patented devices, and earn various prestigious awards during my specialist training.
With a medical degree from Stellenbosch University, a specialist degree from the University of Cape Town, and experience working in renowned Laser Eye Surgery centres in Canada, Germany, India and London, I’m dedicated to providing top-tier care.
Beyond the clinic, I’ve embarked on humanitarian missions, travelling over 15,000km by motorbike to provide rural eye screenings. In my downtime, I love mountain biking, diving, and spending quality time with my family.
My goal is to provide a world-class service which ensures every patient leaves my practice feeling happier than when they first walked in.
Dr Daemon McClunan
MBChB(SU), DipOphth(SA), MMed(UCT), FcOphth(SA)
Hi, I’m James Beatty
I pride myself on providing exceptional eye care with state-of-the-art equipment and a team dedicated to excellence. With a focus on refractive surgery, I bring years of experience and expertise to each patient’s journey towards clearer vision.
As an active member of esteemed Ophthalmologist societies including the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa and the South African Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, I stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field.
Additionally, my affiliation with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and the South African Glaucoma Society underscores my commitment to upholding the highest standards of care.
With a passion for laser surgery, I strive to deliver optimal outcomes for every patient.
Dr James Beatty
MB ChB (UCT) FCS (SA) Ophth MMed (Stel) Ophth
