What happens during LASIK surgery?

Understanding the step-by-step process can help ease anxiety about LASIK surgery.

Before You Enter the Suite

1. Final measurements confirmed
2. Numbing eye drops applied
3. Relaxing medication offered (optional)
4. Surgical cap placed over hair
5. Walked to laser suite

In the Laser Suite

Positioning

• You lie on a reclining chair
• Head positioned under the laser
• A pillow supports your neck
• The room is cool and dimly lit

Preparing the Eye

1. More numbing drops applied
2. Eyelid speculum inserted (holds lids open)
3. Eye is cleaned and draped
4. You're asked to focus on a light

The Procedure (Per Eye)

Step 1: Flap Creation (20-30 seconds)

• Suction ring placed on eye (pressure sensation)
• Femtosecond laser creates the flap
• Vision temporarily dims
• Suction released

Step 2: Flap Lift

• Surgeon gently lifts the flap
• Underlying cornea exposed
• You see blurry lights

Step 3: Laser Reshaping (20-50 seconds)

• Asked to focus on blinking light
• Excimer laser pulses (clicking sounds)
• Eye tracker follows your eye
• You may smell a slight odor (tissue vaporizing)

Step 4: Flap Replacement

• Surgeon repositions the flap
• Flap smoothed into place
• Checked for proper alignment
• Adheres naturally in minutes

After Both Eyes

• Eyes examined immediately
• Protective shields placed
• Rest briefly in recovery area
• Go home to rest (no driving)