Laser Eye Surgery Pain: What to Expect During and After the Procedure

Considering laser eye surgery can bring a mix of emotions - excitement at the thought of clearer vision but also some anxiety about the procedure itself. One of the most common concerns people have is about pain: Does laser eye surgery hurt? Will I be in pain afterwards? How uncomfortable is the recovery?

These are completely normal questions to ask. Whether you’re exploring this option for yourself or supporting a loved one who’s thinking about it, understanding what to expect can help ease those worries.

In this article, we’ll give you a clear and honest look at the level of pain or discomfort you might experience during and after laser eye surgery. We’ll explain how the procedure feels, how long any discomfort typically lasts, and what you can do to manage it effectively. We’ll also cover when pain might signal something more serious and how to handle your recovery safely and comfortably. Contact us at IVISION LASER if you’re looking for laser eye surgery in Adelaide.

Is laser eye surgery painful?

Laser eye surgery, including procedures like LASIK, is generally quick and safe, with minimal discomfort during and after the operation¹ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik .

Most patients report little to no pain during laser eye surgery as anaesthetic eye drops are applied before surgery to numb the eye, ensuring comfort throughout the surgery² https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik .

What to expect during the procedure

During the surgery, you'll remain awake, and a device will hold your eyelids open to prevent blinking. The actual laser treatment typically lasts only a few seconds to two minutes, depending on the complexity of your prescription. The procedure should be painless³ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik , but you may feel some pressure⁴https://www.lasereyesurgeryhub.co.uk/laser-eye-surgery/safety-2/ .

Immediate post-surgery sensations

After the procedure, it's common to experience mild discomfort, such as a gritty sensation in the eyes, light sensitivity, or watery eyes. These sensations are usually temporary and subside within a few hours to a couple of days⁵ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik . Over-the-counter pain relievers and prescribed eye drops can help manage any discomfort during this initial recovery period.

Overall, while individual experiences may vary, laser eye surgery is designed to minimise pain, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days after the procedure⁶ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik , though improvements in vision can vary between a couple of days for LASIK and around a month for PRK⁷ https://www.healthline.com/health/eye-health/prk-vs-lasik#pros-and-cons .

Experiencing some discomfort after laser eye surgery is normal, but there are effective ways to manage it and promote healing.

How to relieve pain after laser eye surgery

• Use prescribed eye drops: Your surgeon will prescribe medicated eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It's crucial to use them as directed to aid healing and alleviate discomfort⁸ https://eyesurgeryguide.org/essential-laser-eye-surgery-aftercare-10-dos-and-donts/ .
• Apply artificial tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help relieve dryness and irritation. Ensure they are preservative-free to avoid potential irritation⁹ https://eyesurgeryguide.org/essential-laser-eye-surgery-aftercare-10-dos-and-donts/ .
• Avoid rubbing your eyes: Rubbing can disrupt the healing process and increase discomfort. If your eyes feel itchy or irritated, use artificial tears instead¹⁰ https://eyesurgeryguide.org/essential-laser-eye-surgery-aftercare-10-dos-and-donts/ .

Your doctor will be the best person to recommend the most suitable eye drops for your recovery after laser eye surgery. Depending on your individual needs, your surgeon may prescribe antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection, anti-inflammatory drops to reduce swelling, and lubricating drops to relieve dryness and irritation. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimise any discomfort. If you experience ongoing soreness or dryness, your doctor can adjust your treatment plan to provide the best relief and support your recovery.

Always follow your surgeon's instructions regarding the frequency and duration of eye drop use.

Tips for a comfortable recovery

Rest your eyes by limiting screen time and reading during the initial recovery period to reduce eye strain. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses to shield your eyes from bright light and avoid dusty or smoky environments. Follow post-operative instructions by adhering to all guidelines provided by your surgeon, including attending follow-up appointments to monitor your healing process¹¹ https://eyesurgeryguide.org/essential-laser-eye-surgery-aftercare-10-dos-and-donts/ .

Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to help maintain eye moisture and support overall healing¹² https://www.visualaidscentre.com/how-to-relieve-pain-after-laser-eye-surgery/ .

By following these recommendations, you can effectively manage post-surgery discomfort and support a smooth recovery.

How long does it take to recover from laser eye surgery?

Understanding the recovery process after laser eye surgery is essential for a smooth healing journey. Here's what you can expect:

Recovery times can vary based on the specific procedure and individual healing rates. Generally, LASIK patients notice significant vision improvement within the first 24 hours. However, complete healing and vision stabilisation may take several weeks to a few months¹³ https://www.healthline.com/health/eye-health/prk-vs-lasik#pros-and-cons .

Typical recovery milestones

• First 24 hours: Rest is crucial. Avoid strenuous activities and protect your eyes from irritants. Some discomfort, such as dryness or light sensitivity, is normal.
• First week: Vision continues to improve. Avoid rubbing your eyes and follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions diligently.
• First month: Most patients can resume normal activities, but it's advisable to avoid swimming and contact sports during this period.
• Three to six months: Vision should stabilise completely. Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.

Is laser eye surgery safe?

Laser eye surgery, including procedures like LASIK, is generally considered safe and effective for correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Advancements in technology and surgical techniques have significantly improved safety profiles and outcomes¹⁴ https://www.oclvision.com/laser-eye-surgery/is-laser-eye-surgery-safe/ .

Extensive clinical data supports the safety of laser eye surgery. Over 30 years of studies and patient follow-ups have demonstrated its efficacy in vision correction. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, including dry eyes, glare, halos, and, in rare cases, more serious issues¹⁵ https://www.oclvision.com/laser-eye-surgery/is-laser-eye-surgery-safe/ . It's essential to have a thorough consultation with an experienced eye surgeon to assess your suitability and discuss potential risks.

When does pain after laser eye surgery indicate a cause for concern?

Mild discomfort, dryness, or a gritty sensation is normal after laser eye surgery and typically improves within a few days. However, certain types of pain can indicate a more serious issue and should not be ignored. You should contact your surgeon immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Severe or persistent pain: Intense pain that does not improve with prescribed medications could signal an infection or other complication.
• Sudden vision changes: Blurred or reduced vision that worsens instead of improving may be a sign of a problem.
• Increased redness or swelling: Significant redness, swelling, or discharge could indicate an infection.
• Light sensitivity with pain: While mild light sensitivity is normal, severe sensitivity paired with pain could suggest corneal inflammation.
• Sharp or stabbing pain: This is unusual and may point to corneal damage or other complications.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek prompt medical attention. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications and support a smoother recovery.

Does laser eye surgery last forever?

While laser eye surgery provides long-term vision correction, it doesn't halt the natural aging process of the eyes. Conditions such as presbyopia or cataracts can develop over time, potentially affecting vision. Some patients may experience a gradual regression of their initial correction, leading to a return of refractive errors. Regular eye examinations are important to monitor eye health and address any changes in vision.

Long-term outcomes and considerations

Most patients enjoy stable and improved vision for years following laser eye surgery, often eliminating the need for corrective lenses. However, individual experiences can vary. Potential long-term complications, though rare, may include persistent dry eye syndrome, night vision disturbances, or corneal ectasia¹⁶ https://eyesurgeryguide.org/long-term-lasik-complications-what-to-expect-years-later/ . It's crucial to maintain regular follow-up appointments with your eye care professional to ensure optimal eye health and promptly address any concerns.

In summary, laser eye surgery offers a safe and effective option for vision correction with long-lasting results. Understanding the potential risks and maintaining ongoing eye care are key to achieving and preserving the best possible outcomes.

How should I sleep after laser eye surgery?

Proper post-operative care is crucial to ensure optimal healing and minimal pain after laser eye surgery. Here are some essential tips to guide you through the recovery process:

• Sleeping position: It's generally safe to sleep on your back or side after LASIK surgery. However, avoid sleeping on your stomach to prevent any accidental pressure on your eyes.
• Eye shields: Your surgeon will provide protective eye shields to wear during sleep for the first few nights. These shields prevent accidental rubbing or pressure on the eyes, reducing the risk of complications.

Protective measures to ensure optimal healing

• Avoid rubbing your eyes: Refrain from touching or rubbing your eyes, as this can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
• Use prescribed eye drops: Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding the use of antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
• Wear sunglasses: Protect your eyes from bright light and UV exposure by wearing sunglasses when outdoors. This helps reduce light sensitivity and promotes comfort during recovery.
• Maintain hygiene: Keep your hands clean and avoid getting water, soap, or other contaminants in your eyes during the initial recovery period. It's advisable to avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas for at least two weeks post-surgery.

Lifestyle adjustments during recovery

• Limit screen time: Reduce exposure to screens (computers, smartphones, TVs) to prevent eye strain. If screen use is necessary, take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds¹⁷ https://eyesurgeryguide.org/essential-laser-eye-surgery-aftercare-10-dos-and-donts/ .
• Avoid strenuous activities: Refrain from heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, and contact sports for at least a week to prevent increased eye pressure and potential complications¹⁸ https://eyesurgeryguide.org/essential-laser-eye-surgery-aftercare-10-dos-and-donts/ .
• Stay hydrated and eat healthily: Proper hydration and a balanced diet rich in vitamins can support the healing process¹⁹ https://eyesurgeryguide.org/essential-laser-eye-surgery-aftercare-10-dos-and-donts/ .
• Attend follow-up appointments: Keep all scheduled appointments with your eye surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns promptly²⁰ https://eyesurgeryguide.org/essential-laser-eye-surgery-aftercare-10-dos-and-donts/ .

Adhering to these post-surgery care tips should help you enhance your recovery experience and achieve the best possible outcomes from your laser eye surgery.

Comparing laser eye surgery to other eye procedures

When considering vision correction, understanding how pain and discomfort vary between different eye procedures can help you make a more informed decision. Here's how laser eye surgery compares to other common eye treatments in terms of pain and recovery.

Laser eye surgery vs. Lens replacement surgery (RLE)

• Laser eye surgery (LASIK, PRK, SMILE): Most patients report little to no pain during the procedure due to numbing eye drops. Mild discomfort, such as dryness or a gritty sensation, may occur during recovery, especially with PRK.
• Lens replacement surgery (RLE): Typically painless during the procedure as local anaesthetic is used. Some patients experience mild discomfort or a scratchy feeling in the eye for a few days post-surgery.

Laser eye surgery vs. Implantable contact lenses (ICL)

• Laser eye surgery: Involves surface-level discomfort, especially with PRK, which can cause moderate pain during the first few days of healing. LASIK and SMILE tend to involve less pain.
• ICL surgery: Usually painless during the procedure. Post-surgery discomfort is minimal, though patients might feel mild pressure or a sensation of something in the eye for a few days.

Laser eye surgery vs. Non-surgical vision correction

• Laser eye surgery: Requires a recovery period with potential mild discomfort but offers long-term results.
• Glasses and contact lenses: Non-invasive and painless but may cause ongoing irritation for contact lens wearers, such as dry eyes or discomfort with prolonged use.

Pain levels vary between procedures, but most modern eye surgeries are designed to be as comfortable as possible. Your surgeon will discuss pain management strategies and help you choose the option best suited to your comfort and vision goals.

Conclusion

While the thought of pain may be a concern when considering laser eye surgery, most procedures are designed to be as comfortable as possible. With the use of advanced laser technology and local anaesthetic eye drops, discomfort during the procedure is minimal. Post-surgery pain is typically mild and manageable with proper care. Compared to other eye procedures, laser eye surgery offers a balance of quick recovery and long-term vision correction with minimal discomfort.

If you’re ready to take the next step towards clearer vision, contact IVISION LASER to schedule your consultation.