What Will I Experience During LASIK Laser Eye Surgery?

Aug. 24, 2009— -- Question: What will I experience during LASIK laser eye surgery?

Answer: The LASIK procedure is usually very brief and over in a few minutes. During the day of LASIK eye surgery, you should refrain from using lotion around your eyes or eye makeup; you should refrain from using cologne or perfume, as this may coat the laser optics. Your ophthalmologist will be talking you through the procedure. There may be time where you will feel some pressure and your vision will dim during the creation of the flap. It is not possible to blink during the procedure because your ophthalmologist will place something between the lids to prevent eye blinking after the use of anesthetic drops. During the laser procedure itself your ophthalmologist will coach you to look at a target light that is flashing on and off. This is similar to looking at a stoplight that may be flashing on and off late at night. The procedure is very brief, and most patients have no discomfort.