Laser eye surgery is usually not painful because numbing drops are used, but you may feel pressure or mild discomfort during and some soreness afterwards.
What you feel during treatment
Before the laser starts, anaesthetic drops make the surface of the eye numb. You may sense gentle pressure from the eyelid clip or suction ring and see bright lights or patterns, but sharp pain is uncommon.
- LASIK typically causes brief pressure when the flap is created
- PRK and LASEK involve little sensation during the laser step
- SMILE often feels like a period of slight fullness rather than pain
- Staff talk you through each step so you know what to expect
After the anaesthetic wears off
Comfort varies with the type of procedure. LASIK and SMILE patients often report scratchiness or dryness for a day or two, while PRK and LASEK can cause stronger soreness for several days as the surface heals.
- Pain relief tablets, cooling eye masks, and lubricating drops help ease symptoms
- Resting with eyes closed and avoiding bright light reduces discomfort
- Most people find pain steadily improves rather than worsens
- Contact your clinic if pain feels severe, one sided, or suddenly changes
