Does Laser Eye Surgery Hurt?

Laser eye surgery is a popular choice for those seeking to improve their vision and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, one of the most common concerns people have before undergoing the procedure is, “Does laser eye surgery hurt?”

In this blog post, we will address this question, explaining what you can expect during and after the surgery. We will also provide reassurance about the comfort levels associated with the procedure.

Understanding Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery, is a procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct vision problems such as myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), and astigmatism. The most common types of laser eye surgery are LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), and SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). Each of these procedures is designed to improve the way light is focused on the retina, resulting in clearer vision.

The Fear of Pain: A Common Concern

It is natural to feel anxious about any medical procedure, especially one involving the eyes. However, the good news is that laser eye surgery is generally painless. Thanks to modern technology and techniques, most patients report feeling little to no discomfort during the procedure.

What to Expect During the Procedure

• Numbing the Eyes: Before the surgery begins, the surgeon will apply numbing eye drops to ensure you do not feel any pain. These drops take effect quickly, making the procedure itself pain-free. You might feel a slight pressure on your eye, but it should not be painful.
• Keeping the Eyes Open: Some patients worry about keeping their eyes open during the surgery. To address this, a small device is used to gently hold your eyelids open, preventing blinking. This device ensures that the laser can be applied accurately without any interference.
• The Laser Treatment: During the laser application, you may hear some clicking noises and see flashing lights. These are normal and should not cause concern. The laser reshaping the cornea only takes a few minutes per eye, making the procedure quick and efficient.
• Immediate Post-Procedure: After the surgery, your eyes may feel slightly irritated or gritty, similar to having an eyelash in your eye. This sensation is temporary and usually subsides within a few hours. Your surgeon will provide eye drops to help with any discomfort and to aid in the healing process.

What About After the Surgery?

• The First Few Hours: Once the numbing drops wear off, you may experience mild discomfort, such as a burning or itching sensation. This is a normal part of the healing process and is typically short-lived. Most patients find that resting with their eyes closed helps to alleviate any discomfort.
• Day One to Three: During the first few days after surgery, your eyes may be more sensitive to light, and you might notice some redness or watery eyes. It’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes during this time, as this could interfere with the healing process. Your surgeon will likely recommend wearing sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from bright light.
• One Week Post-Surgery: By the end of the first week, most of the discomfort should have subsided. You will likely have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to ensure your eyes are healing properly. At this point, you should be able to resume most of your normal activities, although it’s still important to follow your surgeon’s advice regarding any restrictions.
• Long-Term Recovery: Over the next few weeks to months, your vision will continue to stabilise. Some patients may experience dry eyes during this time, but this can be managed with lubricating eye drops. Most patients find that any lingering discomfort fades as their eyes fully heal.

Reassurance About Pain and Discomfort

It’s important to note that while some patients may experience mild discomfort after laser eye surgery, the majority do not find the procedure painful. The brief period of irritation or sensitivity is often outweighed by the long-term benefits of clearer vision. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help minimise any discomfort and promote a smooth recovery.

The Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery offers significant benefits, including improved vision, reduced dependency on glasses or contact lenses, and a quick recovery time. Many patients find that the procedure enhances their quality of life, allowing them to enjoy activities like sports, swimming, and driving without the hassle of corrective eyewear.

In summary, laser eye surgery is generally not painful. The procedure is quick, and modern techniques ensure that patients experience minimal discomfort both during and after the surgery. If you’re considering laser eye surgery but are concerned about pain, rest assured that the vast majority of patients find the experience to be comfortable and worthwhile.

Still have questions or concerns? Book a free video call with one of our specialists to discuss whether laser eye surgery is right for you. Get all your questions answered and take the first step towards clearer vision today!