LASIK Eye Surgery: Procedure, Safety and Side Effects  

Introduction

Imagine waking up and not needing your contact lenses or glasses to see clearly. The laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) eye surgery makes this possible for many people by correcting vision problems and reducing dependence on spectacles. As more people worldwide develop short-sightedness (myopia), the demand for spectacle-free vision continues to grow. Along with this popularity, understanding safety, possible side effects, and expected results is important¹. In this article, we explain what is LASIK, how it is done, its benefits, and possible side effects. 

What Is LASIK?

LASIK stands for ‘laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis’. It is a vision correction surgery that improves eyesight by changing the shape of the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye. This reshaping helps light enter the eye properly, allowing it to focus clearly and improve vision^1,2.

During the procedure, a very thin flap is created on the cornea using a small blade or a laser device. One side of the flap remains attached and is gently lifted to expose the inner layer of the cornea. A computer-controlled laser then removes a tiny amount of tissue to reshape the cornea. After this, the flap is carefully placed back in position².

Why Is LASIK Eye Surgery Performed?

LASIK eye surgery is performed to correct vision problems called refractive errors. Refractive errors occur when the eye does not focus light correctly, causing blurred vision. LASIK is used to treat: 

• Myopia, which is difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.  
• Astigmatism, which is distorted or blurred vision caused by an unevenly curved cornea. 
• Hyperopia (long-sightedness), which causes difficulty seeing close objects clearly³.

LASIK is the most common laser treatment for these problems. It usually causes little pain, and most people start seeing clearly within a few days. Many people choose LASIK as it provides clearer long-term vision, higher satisfaction, and fewer difficulties than glasses or contact lenses. It may also reduce night driving problems, visual disturbances, and contact lens–related infections⁴.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for LASIK Treatment?

LASIK eye surgery is recommended based on several factors, as eyesight and eye structure can vary from person to person³. The ideal candidate for LASIK should meet the following criteria: 

• Age: The person should be 18 years or older, since vision may continue to change during the teenage years. 
• Stable vision: The eye prescription should have remained unchanged for at least one year before surgery. 
• Refractive error limits: Astigmatism should be no more than 5 dioptres (a unit used to measure eye power), hyperopia not more than +6 dioptres, and myopia from -0.5 up to -8 dioptres^3,5.
• Eye health: Factors such as corneal thickness, lens changes, and eye shape should be suitable for the procedure and should be carefully evaluated^3,5.

A thorough eye examination is important because it helps the surgeon choose the safest and most suitable treatment, ensuring stable and reliable vision after surgery³.

Step-by-Step LASIK Eye Surgery Procedure

LASIK eye surgery follows a clear and carefully planned process, starting from detailed eye checks to recovery after the procedure. The steps below explain what usually happens before, during, and immediately after LASIK, so individuals know what to expect at each stage. 

Pre-Surgery Eye Evaluation

A detailed eye assessment is carried out before LASIK to understand vision status and overall eye health. 

• Vision testing is done along with a complete eye examination. 
• The front and back of the eye, eye pressure, and dryness are carefully checked. 
• Special tests measure the shape and thickness of the cornea³.

Preparation Before Surgery

To ensure accurate eye measurements and the safe planning of LASIK, individuals are recommended to follow these steps: 

• Stop using contact lenses early: Contact lenses can change the shape of the cornea, so they should be stopped for the following duration before testing: soft lenses – 2 weeks, RGP or toric lenses – 3 weeks, and hard lenses – 4 weeks, and glasses are used instead. 
• Share medical details: Past or present eye problems, general health conditions, medicines taken, and any drug allergies should be discussed with the eye specialist. 
• Day-before care: Makeup, creams, lotions, and perfumes should be avoided, as they can increase the risk of infection; eyelid cleaning may be advised. 
• Plan transport: Arrangements for transfer to home after surgery should be made as vision may be blurry afterwards⁶.

Step-by-Step LASIK Procedure

The LASIK procedure involves the following steps to improve vision safely and accurately: 

• The individual lies comfortably on the surgical bed. One eye is gently covered, and the eye to be treated is kept open using a small instrument. 
• Numbing eye drops are applied and the eye area is cleaned. 
• A thin flap is created on the cornea using laser or another medical device, during which brief pressure may be felt. 
• The flap is gently lifted, and a laser reshapes the cornea. 
• Some individuals may notice clicking sounds or a mild smell as the laser works. 
• The flap is placed back into position without stitches. 
• A protective eye shield is placed to protect the eye while it heals^3,6.

The procedure can be safely performed on both eyes on the same day³.

Duration of surgery: LASIK surgery usually takes less than 30 minutes in total. Most of this time is used to prepare the eye and create the corneal flap, while the actual laser reshaping of the cornea takes only a few seconds^6,7.

Immediate post-procedure experience: The eye may feel itchy, slightly painful, or gritty (like there is a small particle inside it). The eyes may water, and vision is often blurry or unclear at first. There may also be sensitivity to light, glare, haloes or star-shaped lights, and redness of the eye. Although there may be an urge to touch or rub the eye, this should be avoided because it can disturb the healing surface⁶. 

Taking good care of the eyes and going for follow-up check-ups supports proper healing and helps maintain stable vision. 

Before and After LASIK Surgery

Before LASIK surgery, your eyesight may be unclear because the eye does not focus light properly. In myopia, faraway objects appear blurry because light focuses in front of the retina. In farsightedness (hyperopia), close objects appear blurry because light focuses behind the retina. 

After LASIK surgery, the shape of the cornea is changed to correct these issues. After the procedure: 

• About 98% of eyes achieve 20/40 vision, which means seeing at 20 feet what a normal eye can see at 40 feet. This level of vision is usually enough for driving without glasses. 
• More than 90% of eyes achieve 20/20 vision, which is considered normal clarity at 20 feet. 
• Most corrections are very precise, within 0.5 dioptres of the intended result, and very few eyes may require a second procedure⁵.

Vision may change during the first few months after surgery. It usually takes around 3 to 6 months to achieve full visual stability. During this period, glare, halos around lights, or difficulty seeing at night may occur. If additional correction is needed, it should only be done after measurements remain consistent for over two visits at least 3 months apart⁶.

Benefits of LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK surgery provides several advantages by correcting vision problems and reducing reliance on glasses or contact lenses. Key benefits include: 

• Clearer vision: Most eyes can see 20/20 or better without glasses after LASIK. Many eyes also gain slightly sharper vision. 
• Better everyday life: Clearer vision makes it easier to watch screens, drive during the day or night, and play sports without glasses or contact lenses. 
• Fixes different vision problems: LASIK can correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. For older people, monovision LASIK can help with both near and distance vision, reducing the reliance on glasses. 
• Quick and simple procedure: LASIK can be done in a clinic under local anaesthesia. Each eye usually takes about 10 minutes, and discomfort during or after surgery is minimal. 
• Fast recovery: Vision improves quickly after LASIK. Many individuals can see clearly early on after surgery, and most people can return to normal activities within one or two days. 
• Long-lasting results: Vision can remain stable for many years after LASIK, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. How long the results last depends on age, eye condition, and the severity of vision problems before surgery. 
• Saves money over time: Although the LASIK procedure may cost more, it can save money over the years by reducing the need for glasses, contact lenses, repairs, and related maintenance. However, regular eye check-ups are still important after LASIK to monitor overall eye and retinal health, making it a practical and cost-effective option. 
• More convenient vision: LASIK reduces daily reliance on glasses or contacts, making it easier to manage everyday activities¹.

LASIK offers long-lasting and reliable improvements in vision. It makes eyesight clearer, recovery fast, and daily life easier while treating many types of vision problems. Next section clarifies on a common fear many have: Is LASIK surgery safe? 

Is LASIK Surgery Safe?

LASIK surgery is considered a safe and effective way to improve vision. It can reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses and make everyday activities easier. Modern laser technology provides improved experience with finer and better controlled laser movements, advanced eye tracking, and improved flap techniques, helping make the procedure more precise. Experienced surgeons carefully check their patients to ensure the best outcomes. Regular check-ups and yearly eye exams help maintain safety and monitor vision, and re-treatments are available if needed. Even with minor changes in vision over time, most individuals stay independent from glasses or contacts and continue to enjoy daily life⁸.

LASIK Surgery Side Effects and Risks

LASIK is generally considered safe; however, like any surgery, there can be some side effects or risks that may be temporary or longer lasting, depending on the situation. 

Short-term side effects

• Dry eyes: Many individuals experience dryness after surgery due to temporary corneal nerve changes, usually improving within 3–6 months. 
• Visual disturbances: About 20–30% may notice glare, halos, or star-shaped lights around bright sources. Modern lasers reduce these effects. 
• Inflammation or mild infection: Mild redness or swelling can occur, usually resolving within a week; serious infections are very rare. 
• Flap-related issues: Rare flap problems, such as movement or wrinkles in the flap, occur in less than 4% of cases and are generally treatable. 

Long-term risks

• Overcorrection/under-correction: Vision may not be fully corrected in 5–51% of cases, sometimes requiring another procedure. 
• Regression: About 5–25% of individuals may slowly need glasses or contacts again, especially older individuals or those with high myopia. 
• Corneal ectasia: A very rare complication (in less than 0.6% cases) where the cornea weakens. Careful pre-surgery screening greatly reduces this risk¹.

With careful selection of candidates for LASIK, proper follow-ups, and modern laser technology, LASIK is highly safe and effective, even though small risks remain. 

Post-LASIK Care and Recovery

After LASIK surgery, proper eye care is essential for healing and better vision. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, which may include the following. 

• Medicines: A mild pain reliever may be advised if you have pain and discomfort. Eye rubbing should be avoided, as it can disturb the flap. 
• Eye Drops and Lubrication: Prescribed antibiotic or anti-inflammatory drops should be used as directed. Artificial tears help relieve dryness and keep the eyes comfortable. 
• Follow-up Visits: A follow-up visit is usually scheduled within 24–48 hours, with regular check-ups for up to 6 months. 
• Activity Restrictions: Contact lenses should be avoided until cleared by the doctor. Light sports may resume in 1–3 days, while strenuous or contact sports should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. Swimming, hot tubs, and eye makeup should be avoided until permitted⁶.

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe pain, worsening vision, any new symptoms, or any unusual changes. 

When Should LASIK Be Avoided?

LASIK surgery may not be safe for everyone, especially in individuals with certain conditions, as follows: 

• Severe problems with the cornea, like the cornea being too thin, weak, or irregular. 
• Eye diseases such as chronic dryness, infections, or inflammation. 
• Uncontrolled diabetes or high eye pressure (glaucoma). 
• Ongoing autoimmune illnesses that affect healing. 
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding. 
• Having very high expectations about perfect vision⁵.

There are a few different types of laser eye procedures that can help improve vision. Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) removes the top layer of the cornea and keeps the vision stable for many years, with a smooth recovery. Small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) reshapes the cornea without making a flap and may cause less dryness. Laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK) gently removes the surface layer of the cornea using alcohol or a small tool. The doctor will recommend the procedure that is safest and most suitable based on your specific eye condition³.

Conclusion

LASIK is a safe and effective surgery that helps people see clearly without glasses or contacts. The procedure reshapes the cornea using a laser, and most individuals notice improved vision within a few days. Some mild side effects, like dryness or glare, may happen at first but usually go away. With proper pre-surgery checks, careful treatment, and following aftercare instructions diligently, LASIK is a reliable way to get clearer long-term vision and makes everyday activities like reading, sports, and driving much easier. 

Also Read: Contact Lenses: Types, Uses, Safety, and Side Effects 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. Moin KA, Majid Moshirfar. A toolkit for patients evaluating benefits and risks of LASIK. Expert Review of Ophthalmology. 2024 Sep 9;1–4. Available from: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17469899.2024.2394214#d1e416 

2. Center for Devices and Radiological Health. LASIK [Internet]. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 2018. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/surgery-devices/lasik  

3. Majid Moshirfar, Bennett P, Ronquillo Y. Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) [Internet]. Nih.gov. StatPearls Publishing; 2023 [cited 2026 Feb 19]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK555970/  

4. Price MO, Price DA, Bucci FA, Durrie DS, Bond WI, Price FW. Three-Year Longitudinal Survey Comparing Visual Satisfaction with LASIK and Contact Lenses. Ophthalmology. 2016 Aug;123(8):1659–66. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0161642016300963?utm_source=chatgpt.com  

5. WILKINSON JM, COZINE EW, KHAN AR. Refractive Eye Surgery: Helping Patients Make Informed Decisions About LASIK. American Family Physician [Internet]. 2017 May 15;95(10):637–44. Available from: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2017/0515/p637.html#patient-selection–precautions–and-contraindications 

6. Research C for BE and. What should I expect before, during, and after surgery? FDA [Internet]. 2023; Available from: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/lasik/what-should-i-expect-during-and-after-surgery#before 

7. Reinstein DZ, Carp GI, de Benedictis D, Archer TJ, Gobbe M, Khan R, et al. Standardization of laser in situ keratomileusis surgical technique evaluated by comparison of procedure time between 2 experienced surgeons. Journal of cataract and refractive surgery [Internet]. 2015 May;41(5):1004–8. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26049833/ 

8. Hickenbotham AL. Long Term Safety Results of LASIK Refractive Surgery: A Twenty-Year Retrospective Study. Journal of Surgery and Research [Internet]. 2023;6(3):303–9. Available from: https://www.fortunejournals.com/articles/long-term-safety-results-of-lasik-refractive-surgery-a-twentyyear-retrospective-study.html 

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