How long does LASIK take?

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

The exact time depends on your prescription—higher corrections require more laser pulses.

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)