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LASIK Basics2024-03-12

So What Actually Happens in LASIK Treatment?

A step-by-step walkthrough of what happens during a LASIK procedure.

LASIK is among the quickest surgeries in modern medicine — the entire procedure takes 10-15 minutes per eye. Here's exactly what happens.

Step 1: numbing eye drops are applied. The eye is gently held open with a soft holder. No injections, no general anaesthesia.

Step 2: a femtosecond laser creates a thin, precise corneal flap in about 20 seconds — completely painless.

Step 3: the flap is gently lifted by the surgeon, exposing the underlying corneal tissue.

Step 4: an excimer laser reshapes the cornea according to your individual prescription — this takes only 20-40 seconds depending on the power.

Step 5: the flap is replaced and adheres naturally — no stitches needed. The same is repeated on the other eye.

Total time: about 15 minutes for both eyes. You walk out of the operating room and rest for a couple of hours before heading home.

Not sure which package is right for you?

Speak to our expert helpline — we'll recommend the best option based on your power, age, cornea and lifestyle. Free, no-obligation.

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