The Procedure
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How long does LASIK take?
Quick Answer: The actual laser treatment takes only 20-50 seconds per eye. The entire procedure is typically 10-15 minutes for both eyes.
LASIK is remarkably quick, though the overall appointment takes longer than just the procedure itself.
The Laser Treatment Time
- Femtosecond laser (flap creation): 10-20 seconds per eye
- Excimer laser (reshaping): 20-50 seconds per eye
- Total laser time: About 1 minute per eye
Total Procedure Time
- Preparation: 5-10 minutes (positioning, numbing drops, lid speculum)
- First eye: 5-7 minutes
- Second eye: 5-7 minutes
- Total in surgery suite: 15-20 minutes
Your Entire Appointment
Pre-Operative (30-60 minutes)
- Final measurements and checks
- Review of procedure and consent
- Relaxing medication (if requested)
- Numbing eye drops
Procedure (15-20 minutes)
- Both eyes treated consecutively
- Brief rest between eyes
Post-Operative (15-30 minutes)
- Initial eye examination
- Post-op instructions
- Protective shields fitted
- Arrange ride home
Why It's So Fast
- No general anesthesia needed
- Modern lasers are extremely precise
- Eye-tracking technology prevents errors
- Experienced surgeons streamline the process
- Corneal flap adheres naturally (no stitches)
Top LASIK Surgeons in Atlanta
MP
Milan Patel, MD
Milan Eye Center
Jeffrey A. Carlisle, MD
Thomas Eye Group
Gayle Leff Goldstein, MD
Georgia Eye Partners
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