Does LASIK hurt? What you really need to know

In this post, Dr. Matthew Russell answers all you need to know about LASIK surgery, and if it is painful.

One of the most common questions people ask before LASIK eye surgery is “Does LASIK hurt?” It’s a fair question. Many people are nervous about anything involving their eyes, especially when lasers are involved. If you’re considering LASIK and are worried about whether laser eye surgery is painful, this guide will help you understand what to expect before, during, and after the lasik procedure.

Understanding LASIK surgery

LASIK eye surgery is a type of refractive surgery designed to correct your vision by treating common refractive errors like short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism.

The goal is simple: to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses or contact lenses.

During the LASIK procedure, a surgeon works on the surface of the eye by carefully lifting a thin corneal flap from the outer layer (a delicate layer of the cornea). A highly precise femtosecond laser is often used to create this flap.

Once lifted, another laser is used to reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina and improving clarity of vision.

Is laser eye surgery painful?

Let’s address the main concern: does laser eye surgery hurt?

The short answer is no, laser eye surgery is not painful.

Before the procedure begins, your surgeon uses anaesthetic eye drops to completely numb your eyes. This ensures you won’t feel pain during the treatment.

While you may still feel some awareness of what’s happening, it’s not uncomfortable, just unfamiliar.

What you may feel during surgery

While LASIK is not painful, you may still feel some pressure or a sense of something touching your eye. This is normal and usually lasts just a few seconds. The surgeon creates a very thin flap in the cornea, then lifts it to use a laser that reshapes the cornea underneath. Most of the time, the laser is working for less than a minute per eye.

The entire procedure usually takes about 10–15 minutes for both eyes. Most patients are surprised by how quick and simple it is.

After surgery: Is there any mild discomfort?

After the anaesthetic eye drops wear off, you may feel a bit of mild discomfort. Some people describe it as feeling like an eyelash or a grain of sand is in their eye. Others feel a little burning or stinging. These feelings usually go away within a few hours.

To help with healing and comfort, your surgeon will give you eye drops. These often include lubricating drops and medicated drops to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Be sure to follow your aftercare instructions closely; this helps reduce discomfort and ensures your eyes heal properly.

Managing light sensitivity and glare

Like all surgical procedures, LASIK can come with some temporary effects. Some people notice they are more sensitive to light. You may also see glare or halos around lights, especially at night. These side effects are common and usually get better within a few weeks.

Your eyes might also feel dry in the first few days or weeks after surgery. This is normal and is managed with lubricating eye drops.

Common side effects of LASIK include:

• Dry eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Glare or halos around lights
• Slight fluctuations in vision

In rare cases, some people may notice double vision, but this is uncommon and usually temporary.

These effects typically improve as your eyes heal, especially within the first few weeks.

Preparing for LASIK: Reducing anxiety

It’s completely normal to feel nervous. But understanding what happens, and what it actually feels like, can make a big difference. Most patients who ask “does laser eye treatment hurt” say afterward that it was much easier than they expected. Understanding each step, from the use of anaesthetic eye drops to what mild discomfort feels like after surgery, can make you feel more prepared.

Your surgeon and their team will guide you through everything. Talking openly with your surgeon, asking questions, and knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety and build confidence.

The role of the surgeon in your comfort

Choosing the right surgeon is key. A skilled, experienced surgeon not only performs the surgery well but also makes sure you feel safe and comfortable. They will carefully plan your treatment and take time to explain your options.

Dr. Matthew Russell has performed over 20,000 vision correction procedures and is known for his caring approach and clear communication. You’ll meet with Dr. Russell before surgery to discuss your goals, check your eye health, and ensure LASIK is the right option for you.

What to expect after LASIK

Your vision may be a bit blurry right after surgery, but most people notice improvement within 24 hours. You’ll have a follow-up appointment the next day to check how your eyes are healing. You’ll also get instructions on how to use your eye drops and protect your eyes in the days ahead.

You should avoid rubbing your eyes and stay away from dusty or dirty environments. You may also need to avoid swimming and eye makeup for a short time. But most people return to work and normal activities within a day or two.

Is LASIK right for you?

If you’re tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses and want a long term solution, LASIK laser eye surgery could be an excellent option.

However, not everyone is suitable. Factors like corneal thickness, overall eye health, and specific conditions will determine whether LASIK is right for you.

The best way to find out if LASIK is right for you is to book a free laser vision assessment. This includes a full eye exam and a discussion about your options. You’ll also get a chance to ask questions, including whether laser eye surgery is painful for people with sensitive eyes.