Laser eye surgery has become a popular option for many people seeking eyeglasses or contact lens-free vision. The length of laser eye surgery doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer because it ultimately depends on the type of surgery. However, LASIK, one of the more common procedures, often takes 30 minutes or less.
It’s important to consider recovery time, not just the actual procedure time. Fortunately, recovery time is typically reasonable and complication-free. We cover a couple of specific laser eye surgeries below to give you an idea of what to expect. But you should consult your eye doctor for personalized surgery timing and preparation advice.
What Is Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery, uses a laser to reshape the cornea, allowing light entering the eye to be correctly focused onto the retina. This results in clearer vision and reduces or eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses. There are several types of laser eye surgery, each with specific procedures and timelines.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)
LASIK is the most well-known type of laser eye surgery. It involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, lifting it to reshape the underlying corneal tissue, and then repositioning the flap.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
PRK is an alternative to LASIK, where the cornea’s surface layer is removed and discarded before the underlying tissue is reshaped. Unlike LASIK, PRK doesn’t create a flap.
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)
SMILE is a newer technique that involves creating a small incision in the cornea to remove a lenticule (a small piece of corneal tissue). This method is less invasive than LASIK and PRK but only treats astigmatism or nearsightedness.
Laser Eye Surgery Length & Recovery Time
While each surgical procedure is similar in many ways, some variances in procedure length and recovery exist.
LASIK
Most LASIK patients experience improved vision within 24-48 hours, with complete healing taking a few weeks. During this time, you’ll need to follow specific care instructions and attend follow-up appointments. The procedure itself typically takes 30 minutes or less for both eyes.
PRK
PRK recovery is slightly longer, with initial vision improvement occurring within a week and full recovery taking several months. This is because the surface corneal layer needs time to regenerate. The PRK procedure is quick, only taking 5 to 15 minutes for the entire surgery.
SMILE
SMILE patients generally experience a quicker recovery than PRK, with vision improvement noticeable within a few days and full recovery within a few weeks. Like other laser eye surgery procedures, SMILE is very quick. The entire procedure typically only takes a few minutes.
Pre-Operative Procedures
Before undergoing laser eye surgery, you’ll need a thorough eye examination to determine your suitability. This laser eye surgery consultation typically takes about 1-2 hours and includes various tests to assess the health of your eyes and measure your corneal thickness.
Preparing for Surgery
In the days before your surgery, you may need to stop wearing contact lenses to allow your cornea to return to its natural shape. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, which might include medications or dietary restrictions.
Factors Influencing the Duration
A few factors can affect the duration of your laser eye surgery.
Type of Procedure
The type of laser eye surgery you choose can impact the overall duration. While LASIK, PRK, and SMILE surgeries are relatively quick, the procedure and recovery times can vary.
Individual Eye Health
The condition of your eyes and any underlying health issues can also affect the timeline. Some patients may require additional pre-operative tests or post-operative care, which can extend the overall process.
Surgeon’s Expertise
Choosing an experienced surgeon can significantly impact the efficiency and success of your surgery. Experienced surgeons are often more adept at performing the procedure quickly and accurately, reducing the overall time needed.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Start by talking to your optometrist. Your eye doctor can recommend a qualified Laser Eye Surgeon who can perform your surgery safely and efficiently.
Consultation & Questions
Schedule a Laser Consultation with your optometrist to discuss your options and ask questions about various surgeon experience, success rates, and what to expect from the procedure. After this, your eye doctor will refer you to the surgeon for further testing and consultation. A thorough Laser Consultation can help you feel more confident in your choice.
Book a Consultation Today
Laser eye surgery is a relatively quick and efficient procedure that can significantly improve your vision and quality of life. By understanding the timeline and what to expect, you can approach the surgery with confidence and ease. The benefits of clearer vision, reduced dependence on corrective lenses, and a smoother daily routine are well worth the time invested.
Request a consultation with one of our experienced eye doctors at Whitby Family Eye Care today if you’re considering laser eye surgery. We can discuss your options and determine the best course of action for your vision needs. Our experienced team can support you pre-and post-surgery.
