What If I blink during Laser Eye Surgery?
What If I blink during Laser Eye Surgery?
It's one of the most common concerns patients have before surgery:
"What happens if I blink?"
The idea of needing to keep your eyes open during a procedure can feel unnatural — but the reality is much simpler and more comfortable than most people expect.
The short answer: you won't be able to blink during the laser — and you don't need to worry about it.
Your eye is gently kept open
During laser eye surgery, a small device called a lid speculum is used to gently hold your eyelids open.
It may sound intimidating, but:
- It's completely painless
- Your eyes are numbed with drops beforehand
- You'll still feel comfortable and able to relax
This means you don't have to think about blinking at all — it's taken care of for you.
What does it feel like?
Most patients describe the sensation as:
- A feeling of awareness that disappears after a few seconds
- Slight pressure rather than pain or discomfort
- Surprisingly easy to tolerate
Because of the numbing drops, you won't feel the urge to blink in the same way you normally would.
What If I try to blink?
Even if you instinctively try to blink:
- The speculum prevents your eyelids from closing
- The laser system continues to track your eye safely
- Your surgeon is guiding you the entire time
There's no risk of "messing anything up" by blinking.
How long do I need to keep my eye open?
The laser portion itself is very quick — usually less than a minute per eye.
You'll be asked to focus on a light, and before you know it, that part of the procedure is done.
What happens after the laser?
Once the procedure is complete:
- The speculum is removed
- You can blink normally again
- Your eyes may feel slightly watery or sensitive
Most patients feel immediate relief being able to close and rest their eyes.
Bottom line
You don't need to worry about blinking during laser eye surgery.
Your eyelids are gently held open, your eyes are fully numbed, and the procedure is quick and carefully controlled. For most patients, it's far easier than they expected.
Thinking about laser eye surgery?
Start with a simple first step.
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:
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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
