How long does LASIK take?

If you’ve been considering LASIK to correct your vision, you might be wondering how long the procedure takes. The answer might surprise you—it’s faster than you think! Here’s what you need to know about the time commitment involved.

The LASIK Timeline

While the entire LASIK journey includes several steps, the procedure itself is remarkably quick. Let’s break it down:

1. The free consultation virtual screening

Your LASIK journey starts with a free 15-20 minute consultation virtual screening. During this quick, no-obligation call, we’ll:

• Discuss your vision goals
• Answer any questions you have
• Determine if you might be a good candidate for LASIK.

If LASIK seems like a good fit, we’ll schedule a more detailed preoperative exam consultation and exam.

2. The initial examination consultation

The next step is a consultation and comprehensive eye exam to confirm your candidacy. During this visit, we’ll:

• Assess your eye health
• Measure your vision
• Discuss your lifestyle and vision goals.

This appointment usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes.

3. The LASIK procedure

The LASIK procedure itself typically takes 10 to 15 minutes per eye, with the laser treatment lasting only seconds.

Here’s a step-by-step overview:

• Preparation: Your eyes are numbed with special drops
• Flap creation: A femtosecond laser creates a small corneal flap
• Laser reshaping: The excimer laser reshapes your cornea
• Flap repositioning: The flap is repositioned to heal naturally.

From the time you walk into the treatment room to when you leave, it’s usually less than 30 minutes.

4. The recovery process

Recovery is straightforward for most patients. After the procedure:

• You’ll rest briefly at the clinic
• Most patients notice clearer vision within a few hours
• Full recovery typically takes a few weeks.

Factors that can affect the timing

While LASIK is quick, factors like pre-procedure tests or specific eye conditions may slightly extend the timeline.

Take the next step

Ready to experience life without glasses? Schedule your free 15-20 minute consultation or take our suitability self-test today.