LASIK surgery is generally not painful because numbing drops and sometimes mild sedation are used. Most people notice pressure and light rather than sharp pain.
Sensations during LASIK
When the suction ring is applied, you may feel tightness and brief dimming of vision. The laser treatment itself is painless.
- You might hear clicking sounds and smell a slight odour from the laser
- Any discomfort is usually brief and tolerable
- Operators constantly check how you are feeling
- The procedure for each eye typically lasts only a few minutes
Post-operative comfort
After LASIK, the eyes may feel gritty, watery, and light-sensitive. Pain is usually mild and settles quickly.
- Many people manage with simple painkillers or none at all
- Sleeping for a few hours after surgery often helps
- Severe pain or vision loss is uncommon and needs urgent review
- Most patients return to comfortable vision within a day or two
