subject: Common Questions And Concerns About Lasik Eye Surgery Answers To Faqs [print this page] Knowing more about LASIK eye surgery can help you relax during the procedure and/or help you to decide whether you want to go forward with corrective eye surgery at all. The idea of a doctor operating around the eye can be an uncomfortable thought; especially when it involves a bit of cutting and lasers.
Is LASIK an outpatient procedure?
LASIK eye surgery is a relatively quick procedure, often taking no more than 30 minutes, and it is actually quite painless. There is no anesthesia involved; doctors numb the eye while you lie back and let them perform the eye surgery. You may feel pressure and some discomfort as they reshape the cornea, as well as some blurred vision, but this is all normal. You can leave the same day of your eye surgery, though you will need someone to take you home as you will not be able to use your eyes right away.
Does it hurt?
LASIK is not a painful corrective eye surgery, but after it has finished, you may experience discomfort in your eyes, such as a feeling of itching, burning, or the sensation that there is something in your eye. This is another reason you must wear eye guards after the surgical procedure. You may want to rub your eyes, but you must avoid doing so, as it may dislodge the cornea flap and mean more treatment.
Will I be able to see right away?
While you will have some vision after the eye surgery, it may be slightly blurry. You may also experience sensitivity to light, or see halos, starbursts, or glare when around lights. These symptoms can persist for a few days, but should then subside. If they do not, you should contact your doctor. Your vision may fluctuate anywhere from three to six months as your eye adjusts to its new shape and fully heals.
How do I know if LASIK is right for me?
LASIK eye surgery is not for everyone; generally most medical insurance does not pay for refractive surgery. If your job can be affected by corrective eye surgery, be sure to talk to your employer before doing it. If you have certain diseases or medical conditions that can affect how your eye heals, the procedure may not be for you. Always talk things through with your doctor to make sure you know whether or not LASIK is for you.
