- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: September 14, 2025
- Last Updated: September 4, 2025
Despite laser eye surgery being one of the most successful and well-established procedures in modern medicine, persistent myths continue to create unnecessary worry. These misconceptions often stem from outdated information or sensationalised stories that bear little resemblance to today’s advanced treatments. At Blue Fin Vision®, London’s top-rated eye clinic on prestigious Harley Street, we believe in empowering patients with facts rather than fiction. Understanding the truth about laser eye surgery helps you make confident, informed decisions about your vision.
Here are seven myths about laser eye surgery that deserve to be put to rest for good:
1. Myth: Laser Eye Surgery Is Painful
The worry about pain during laser eye surgery is completely understandable, but thankfully unfounded. Modern laser eye surgery is virtually painless thanks to advanced anaesthetic techniques. Before your procedure begins, numbing eye drops are applied to ensure complete comfort throughout the treatment.
Most patients at our Harley Street clinic describe feeling only mild pressure during the procedure rather than actual discomfort. The entire process typically takes just minutes per eye, and any slight sensation you might experience is brief and manageable. Our top specialists prioritise patient comfort at every stage, ensuring your experience is as relaxed as possible.
After surgery, some patients notice mild scratchiness similar to having an eyelash in the eye, but this temporary sensation resolves within hours or days. The overwhelming majority of our patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the entire process proves to be.
2. Myth: The Laser Is Hot and Could Burn My Eye
This science fiction inspired fear couldn’t be further from reality. The excimer lasers used in modern laser eye surgery are actually cold lasers that produce no heat whatsoever. These precision instruments work at a molecular level to gently reshape corneal tissue without generating thermal energy.
If you notice a faint odour during the procedure, this isn’t burning tissue but rather the natural release of carbon atoms as the laser precisely removes microscopic amounts of corneal material. This is completely normal and poses no risk to your eye health.
Blue Fin Vision®’s state-of-the-art laser technology represents the pinnacle of safety and precision. Our leading surgeons use only the most advanced equipment to ensure optimal results with absolute safety throughout your treatment.
3. Myth: Laser Eye Surgery Is Dangerous
In reality, laser eye surgery ranks among the safest elective procedures performed today. With over 40 million procedures completed worldwide and decades of refinement, the safety profile is exceptionally well-established. The risk of serious complications is extraordinarily low, particularly when performed by experienced top doctors at reputable clinics.
Research consistently demonstrates that laser eye surgery is actually safer than long-term contact lens wear. Contact lenses carry significant risks including microbial keratitis, corneal ulcers, and other sight-threatening infections that occur far more frequently than laser surgery complications.
At Blue Fin Vision®, our top-rated surgeons follow rigorous safety protocols and conduct thorough pre-operative assessments to ensure only suitable candidates proceed with treatment. This meticulous approach has contributed to our excellent safety record and outstanding patient satisfaction rates.
4. Myth: Laser Eye Surgery Is Only for Young, Short-Sighted People
Modern laser technology can address a remarkably broad range of vision problems across various age groups. While many people associate laser eye surgery with treating short-sightedness in young adults, today’s advanced procedures can correct long-sightedness, astigmatism, and even age-related vision changes.
Patients well into their forties, fifties, and beyond can be excellent candidates for vision correction surgery, provided their eyes are healthy and their prescription has stabilised. Our top specialists at Blue Fin Vision® regularly perform successful treatments for mature patients seeking freedom from reading glasses or progressive lenses.
The key factors for candidacy include overall eye health, corneal thickness, and realistic expectations rather than simply age or prescription type. During your consultation at our London clinic, we’ll assess your individual situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment pathway for your specific needs.
5. Myth: Laser Eye Surgery Results Aren't Permanent
The structural changes made to your cornea during laser eye surgery are indeed permanent. This is one of the most reassuring aspects of the procedure, the correction achieved will not reverse or fade over time like a temporary fix might.
However, your eyes will continue to undergo natural ageing processes just as they would have without surgery. This means you might still develop presbyopia (reading vision changes) in your forties or cataracts later in life, but these are separate age-related conditions rather than failure of your laser surgery results.
At Blue Fin Vision®, we ensure patients understand both the permanent nature of their vision correction and the natural changes that may occur with time. Many patients enjoy decades of excellent vision following their procedure, with touch-up treatments rarely required.
6. Myth: Laser Eye Surgery Prevents Future Cataract Surgery
Having laser eye surgery has absolutely no impact on your ability to undergo cataract surgery later in life. This myth appears to stem from confusion about different types of eye procedures, but the reality is refreshingly straightforward.
Laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea at the front of your eye, while cataract surgery involves replacing the eye’s natural lens deeper within the eye structure. These are entirely separate areas, so previous laser treatment doesn’t interfere with future cataract procedures in any way.
Our experienced surgeons frequently treat patients who have previously undergone laser eye surgery and later require cataract treatment. The procedures complement each other well, often resulting in excellent vision outcomes that address both refractive errors and age-related lens changes simultaneously.
7. Myth: Laser Eye Surgery Is Too Expensive
While laser eye surgery represents a significant investment, it’s far more accessible than many people assume. When you consider the cumulative cost of glasses, contact lenses, solutions, and regular eye tests over a lifetime, laser eye surgery often proves remarkably cost-effective.
Blue Fin Vision® offers transparent pricing and flexible payment options to make vision freedom achievable for more patients. We provide detailed cost breakdowns during consultations, helping you understand both the immediate investment and long-term savings potential.
Beyond financial considerations, the value of clear, unrestricted vision extends to improved quality of life, convenience, and confidence that many patients find priceless. Swimming without worrying about losing contact lenses, waking up with clear vision, and freedom from fogged glasses in winter represent just some of the lifestyle benefits our patients treasure.
Trust Blue Fin Vision® for Laser Eye Surgery in London
Separating fact from fiction is crucial when considering laser eye surgery. At Blue Fin Vision®, our top-rated eye clinic on Harley Street combines decades of expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver exceptional results. Our leading surgeons have helped thousands of patients achieve clear vision through safe, effective treatments tailored to individual needs.
Ready to discover the truth about laser eye surgery for yourself? Book your complimentary consultation with Blue Fin Vision®’s expert team at our prestigious Harley Street clinic in London.
Experience firsthand why our patients trust us to deliver life-changing vision correction with the highest standards of care and safety.
