The entire LASIK procedure typically takes 10-15 minutes per eye. Here is 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 — under numbing drops, most patients feel only mild pressure.
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.