Laser Eye Surgery FAQs
Blue Fin Vision® consultants answer the most common questions about laser eye surgery. From suitability to recovery, risks to results, find reassurance and practical guidance to help you make an informed decision about reducing your dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
What is laser eye surgery?
Laser eye surgery uses advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea and correct vision problems such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness, astigmatism and age-related reading difficulty. By precisely altering the cornea’s curvature, light focuses correctly onto the retina, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses and contact lenses. At Blue Fin Vision®, we offer LASIK, PRK, LASEK, SMILE, PresbyMAX® and PRESBYOND®, with your consultant recommending the most suitable option for your eyes.
Is laser eye surgery safe?
Laser eye surgery is one of the safest elective surgical procedures available, supported by over 30 years of clinical data and millions of successful treatments worldwide. Serious complications are rare, with more than 95% of patients reporting satisfaction with their outcomes. At Blue Fin Vision®, consultant-led care, CQC-regulated facilities and advanced laser technology ensure the safest possible experience.
Does laser eye surgery hurt?
Laser eye surgery is not painful. Anaesthetic drops numb the eye completely, and during the procedure you may feel slight pressure but no pain. Afterwards, LASIK and SMILE patients typically experience mild grittiness for a few hours, while PRK and LASEK patients may have moderate discomfort for 2–3 days as the surface heals. Any discomfort is temporary and well-managed with appropriate drops and pain relief.
Which laser eye surgery procedure is right for me?
The best procedure depends on your prescription, corneal thickness, age and lifestyle. LASIK suits most patients wanting rapid recovery. PRK and LASEK are ideal for thinner corneas or active lifestyles with risk of eye trauma. SMILE offers a flapless option with reduced dry eye risk for short-sighted patients. PresbyMAX® and PRESBYOND® address reading vision for those over 40. Your consultant will recommend the most suitable option during your assessment.
Am I suitable for laser eye surgery?
Approximately 85% of people are suitable for some form of laser eye surgery. You are likely a candidate if you are aged 21 or over, have had a stable prescription for at least 12 months, and have healthy eyes. Factors such as very thin corneas, severe dry eye, pregnancy or certain medical conditions may affect suitability. If laser surgery is not appropriate, Blue Fin Vision® offers alternatives including implantable contact lenses.
Can I have laser eye surgery if I am over 40?
Yes. Patients over 40 are excellent candidates, though the approach may differ. Standard procedures like LASIK correct distance vision effectively but reading glasses will still be needed for close work. PresbyMAX® and PRESBYOND® are designed specifically for patients over 40, addressing both distance and near vision to reduce dependence on reading glasses. Your consultant will recommend the best solution for your age and visual needs.
How long does laser eye surgery take?
The laser treatment itself takes only seconds to minutes per eye, with the entire procedure typically completed within 15–30 minutes for both eyes. You should expect to be at the clinic for approximately 2–3 hours on your surgery day, allowing time for preparation, the procedure, initial recovery and post-operative instructions.
What is the recovery time after laser eye surgery?
Recovery varies by procedure. LASIK, SMILE and PRESBYOND® patients typically return to work within 1–2 days and can often drive within 24–48 hours. PRK and LASEK require 5–7 days before returning to work, with driving possible after 2–3 weeks. Presbyopia-correcting procedures require an additional neuroadaptation period of 4–12 weeks as the brain adjusts. Blue Fin Vision® provides comprehensive aftercare throughout your recovery.
How long do the results of laser eye surgery last?
Laser eye surgery provides permanent correction of your existing prescription. The corneal reshaping does not reverse, and most patients enjoy stable vision for many years. However, natural age-related changes will still occur. Patients under 45 will eventually need reading glasses as near vision naturally decreases, and cataracts develop with age regardless of previous surgery. A small number of patients may experience slight regression, which can usually be addressed with enhancement.
What are the risks and side effects of laser eye surgery?
Common temporary side effects include dry eyes, halos and glare around lights, and fluctuating vision during healing. These typically resolve within weeks to months. Serious complications are rare, with infection occurring in approximately 1 in 10,000 cases and corneal ectasia in approximately 1 in 2,000 cases. Thorough pre-operative screening at Blue Fin Vision® minimises these risks. Your consultant will discuss any risks specific to your situation before treatment.
