LASIK eye surgery is a popular and safe option for those looking to correct their vision. If you’ve been considering LASIK, you probably have many questions. One of the most common inquiries is whether you’ll be awake during the procedure. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect if you choose LASIK and how the process works.
Will You Be Awake?
Yes, you will be awake during LASIK eye surgery. However, the procedure is designed to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Your eye doctor will ensure that you’re relaxed and don’t feel any pain.
When you arrive for your surgery, your doctor will numb your eyes using special eye drops. These drops will prevent any discomfort, and you won’t feel the procedure itself. The goal is to make you feel at ease throughout the surgery, which usually lasts between 5 to 10 minutes per eye.
The Role of Sedation
Even though you are awake, many people feel anxious about the idea of having eye surgery. To help you relax, your doctor may offer mild sedation. This is a light form of anesthesia that keeps you calm and comfortable during the procedure. You won’t be asleep, but you won’t be aware of much either, thanks to the sedation and the numbing drops in your eyes.
What Happens During LASIK?
Here’s a quick rundown of what happens during the LASIK procedure. After your eye has been numbed, the surgeon will use a special device to keep your eyelids open. This device is painless, but it ensures that you won’t blink during the surgery.
Next, the surgeon will use a laser to reshape your cornea, which helps to improve your vision. During this time, you may be asked to focus on a light, but you’ll feel no pain. The laser works quickly and precisely, and most patients don’t experience any discomfort.
You might hear clicking sounds as the laser works, but that’s all part of the process. You won’t feel the laser itself. The surgery only takes a short amount of time, and you’ll be able to go home on the same day.
Will You Experience Pain?
LASIK is designed to be as painless as possible. After the numbing drops are applied, you won’t feel any discomfort during the surgery. Some patients report apressure sensation on their eyes, but this isn’t painful.
In the hours following the procedure, it’s normal to experience some mild irritation or dryness. Your doctor may recommend using lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes moist and comfortable. It’s important to follow all post-surgery instructions to avoid complications and ensure the best results.
What About the Risks?
While LASIK is a safe procedure, like all surgeries, there are some risks. However, serious complications are rare. Some patients may experience dry eyes or difficulty seeing at night after the surgery. These issues usually resolve over time, and your doctor will guide you on how to manage them.
It’s important to follow all pre- and post-surgery instructions to minimize any risks. Make sure to attend follow-up appointments so your doctor can monitor your recovery and address any concerns.
Why Stay Awake?
The reason you stay awake during LASIK is because the procedure is quick, and the numbing drops prevent any pain. Being awake also allows you to follow the surgeon’s instructions, such as focusing on a light. Staying alert ensures that the procedure goes smoothly and that you can communicate with the doctor if necessary.
Some people are surprised to learn they will be awake. But most patients find that staying conscious helps them feel more in control of the situation. The sedation, combined with the numbing drops, ensures that you won’t feel anything, so there’s no need to worry about discomfort.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
LASIK surgery is relatively quick. Each eye takes about 10-15 minutes, and most people are in and out of the surgery room in less than an hour. The entire procedure is efficient, thanks to the advanced technology used in modern LASIK treatments.
You can expect to spend a little extra time in the recovery area, where your doctor will monitor you briefly after lasik surgery to make sure everything is going well. Many patients feel comfortable enough to go home the same day.
What Happens After the Surgery?
Once the surgery is complete, you’ll be able to rest for a short while in a recovery room. Your doctor will want to make sure that you’re comfortable and that your eyes are healing as expected. Most patients notice improvements in their vision almost immediately, though it may take a few days for your vision to fully stabilize.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions. This includes using prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and avoiding activities that might strain your eyes, such as rubbing them or swimming.
Can You Drive After LASIK?
Most patients notice significant improvements in their vision the day after LASIK. However, you’ll need someone to drive you home after the surgery, as your vision may be blurry immediately afterward. It’s also a good idea to take it easy for a day or two and allow your eyes to rest.
It’s recommended that you avoid strenuous activity or anything that could risk injuring your eyes in the days following the surgery. Most people return to their normal routine within a day or two, although you should avoid intense activities until your doctor gives you the all-clear.
Is LASIK Right for You?
LASIK can be a life-changing procedure for those looking to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. It’s important to consult with your eye doctor to determine if LASIK is the right option for you.
Some individuals may not be ideal candidates for LASIK, particularly if they have certain health conditions or very thin corneas. Your doctor will perform a thorough eye exam to assess your eligibility and answer any questions you may have about the procedure.
Should You Be Nervous?
Many people are nervous before surgery, but LASIK is a routine and safe procedure with a high success rate. It’s natural to have concerns, but rest assured that your surgeon is highly trained to guide you through every step of the process. The combination of numbing drops and mild sedation ensures that you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
Being awake during the surgery may seem surprising, but it helps ensure that the procedure is done correctly and efficiently. You’ll be able to focus and follow simple instructions, making the process easier for both you and your surgeon.
Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Vision?
If you’re considering LASIK, don’t hesitate to reach out for more information. It’s a quick, safe, and effective solution for many people.
Ready to take the next step toward clearer vision? Schedule a consultation with SuraVision today to discuss your options and learn more about the LASIK process. Call us at 713-730-2020 or book your appointment online!