How Long Does LASIK Surgery Take?
August 20, 2024
Are you frustrated with the need to wear and maintain glasses or contact lenses to be able to see clearly? LASIK surgery can lessen or even eliminate your need for these annoyances while allowing you to enjoy life the way it was meant to be seen. While you may have heard of LASIK, before considering it, you should understand what happens during the procedure.
What is LASIK Surgery?
LASIK is the most widely used form of laser eye surgery. These procedures all work by using lasers to alter the shape of your corneas, the clear windows at the front of your eye that assist with focusing light. Changing the shape of your cornea leads to light that focuses on the retina to produce a clear picture. This quick outpatient procedure is generally pain-free and effective. How Long Does LASIK Surgery Take?
How Long Does LASIK Surgery Take?
Your LASIK procedure will begin with your eye surgeon numbing your eyes with drops. An eyelid holder will ensure you do not accidentally blink, so all you need to do is relax. The first laser takes 16 seconds to create a flap in the surface of your cornea that can be lifted aside. The second laser performs the corneal reshaping, and this process can take up to 15 seconds. As a result, LASIK on each eye takes about 30 seconds.
After the reshaping, your surgeon moves the flap back into place. The edges of the flap begin to heal almost immediately, so you will not need any bandages over your eyes, although you must avoid rubbing them. The entire process, from preparation to completion, can take less than half an hour.
The Path to Clearer Vision Starts Here
What is Recovery Like After LASIK Surgery?
You may experience blurriness, sensitivity, and irritation after your LASIK surgery, which can last a few days. Most people can return to work and other activities within a few days. However, you should avoid swimming, eye makeup, strenuous exercise, or contact sports for two weeks. You should also avoid dusty or smoky environments that would cause particulate to get in your eyes.
Am I a Good Candidate for LASIK Surgery?
LASIK surgery is an effective way for most healthy adults to correct their vision. It works on astigmatism, farsightedness, and nearsightedness with a range of prescriptions. However, only an eye exam can determine whether you are a good candidate for LASIK surgery. We may recommend a different type of laser eye surgery if you have:
- Thin, unstable, or abnormally shaped corneas
- Problems with dry eye symptoms
- A prescription beyond the range that LASIK can correct
- A lifestyle that includes contact sports
Heart of Texas Eye Care offers a range of vision correction options, so even if laser eye surgery like LASIK is not the best choice for you, clear vision is still within your reach. We will work with you to find a solution that is safe and effective.
Take the Next Step
If you’d like to learn more about LASIK surgery, schedule a consultation with our Heart of Texas Eye Care team, serving Dripping Springs, Austin, Kyle, Bee Cave, Marble Falls, and other surrounding areas. Contact us at (512) 213-2220 today!
*Individual results may vary