Does LASIK Hurt?

If you’re thinking about LASIK, it's natural to wonder, "Does LASIK hurt?" The quick answer is no. Thanks to numbing drops and advanced technology, LASIK is a virtually painless procedure.

What You’ll Feel During LASIK

Before the procedure starts, your surgeon will apply numbing eye drops. These work quickly to eliminate any pain. You’ll be awake during the procedure, but you won’t feel anything sharp or painful. Some people describe feeling slight pressure for a few seconds when the surgeon creates the corneal flap. The laser itself is completely painless.

Why LASIK Doesn’t Hurt

LASIK is designed to be quick and comfortable. The entire procedure usually takes less than 15 minutes for both eyes. The laser used to reshape your cornea works with precision, and because your eye is numb, you won’t feel the laser at all.

What About After LASIK?

After the numbing drops wear off (usually within 30 to 60 minutes), you might feel some mild irritation. It can feel like you have something in your eye or a gritty sensation. This is normal and temporary. Most people find this discomfort mild and manageable. Your surgeon will give you lubricating drops and, if needed, medication to ease any irritation.

Managing Post-Procedure Discomfort

To help with post-LASIK comfort:

• Use the prescribed eye drops as directed.
• Rest your eyes for a few hours after the procedure.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes.

Most people feel significant relief within a few hours, and by the next day, they’re feeling great with noticeably clearer vision.

When to Contact Your Surgeon

While discomfort is normal right after LASIK, severe pain is not. If you experience intense pain, sudden vision changes, or increased redness, contact your surgeon immediately. These symptoms are rare but can indicate a complication that needs attention.

LASIK is a painless procedure for most people. Thanks to numbing drops and advanced laser technology, any discomfort is minimal and short-lived. The benefits of clearer vision far outweigh the brief period of mild irritation you might experience afterward.

Curious if LASIK is right for you? Take our quick suitability self-test to find out!