What is the step-by-step process of Lasik eye surgery from start to finish?

Feeling nervous about eye surgery is very common, and understanding the process step by step usually makes it much less scary. During lasik, you are awake the whole time, but your eyes are numbed with anesthetic drops and, if needed, you may be given a mild tablet to help you relax. An eyelid holder is placed so you don’t need to worry about blinking. You’ll see lights and some shadows, but not instruments coming toward you in a detailed way. The surgeon first creates a very thin flap on the surface of your cornea (usually with a laser), lifts it, then uses another laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue according to your prescription. You may hear clicking sounds and feel gentle pressure, but there should be no pain, just a bit of odd sensation or tightness for a few seconds.

From the moment you enter the laser room to the moment you walk out, it’s usually around 15–30 minutes for both eyes, with only a few minutes of actual laser time per eye. After the reshaping is done, the flap is carefully placed back, and it starts sealing on its own without stitches. Your vision will be misty or hazy right after, and your eyes can feel gritty or watery for a few hours, but most people go home within a short time, rest for the day, and notice clearer vision by the next morning. Someone should accompany you and drive you home. If you share your anxieties with the surgeon ahead of time, they can talk you through each step on the day so nothing comes as a surprise.