When considering Laser Eye Surgery, Centre for Sight patients find it useful to understand how long the procedure takes to perform and how long they can expect to be with us in the surgery for. This article will cover the time it takes, how long it takes patients to recover and how long the vision correction lasts.
How Long Does Laser Eye Surgery Take?
The actual procedure takes around 20 minutes to complete. However, we usually recommend our patients to allow for about 4 hours, as there is a preparation required before surgery, and recovery time afterwards.
How long does Laser Eye Surgery take to recover?
You will see one of our surgeons the day after surgery who will be able to advise on your recovery time, but typically we you will see a big difference the day after your surgery and a full recovery within about 2 weeks after which you will be able to return to exercise. Your vision should settle over the first 6 weeks following surgery.
How long does Laser Eye Surgery take to recover?
You will see one of our surgeons the day after surgery who will be able to advise on your recovery time, but typically we you will see a big difference the day after your surgery and a full recovery within about 2 weeks after which you will be able to return to exercise. Your vision should settle over the first 6 weeks following surgery.
Is Laser Eye Surgery permanent?
One of the most common myths regarding LASIK surgery is that the effect wears off, or there’s concern over how long laser eye surgery lasts. The vast majority will find that the results of Laser Eye Surgery should last. Read our full article about the length of Laser Eye Surgery.
Can vision change after LASIK?
We will only treat patients with a stable prescription to make sure they get the safest and best results. There is only a small percentage of patients, commonly in their very early 20’s, that may become slightly more short-sighted following LASIK as they get into their mid-20’s. The change is due to a lengthening of the eyeball and is not related to LASIK surgery, as the changes made in surgery are permanent. Our surgeons will see you the day after your surgery and you will see us for another follow-up appointment 6 weeks after your surgery. During these follow-ups your surgeon will be able to identify and advise if your recovery is not on track.
Our patients are normally with us for surgery for a total of 4 hours and see a full recovery within 2 weeks. Laser Eye Surgery is a permanent procedure with great results, and we are proud to be able to offer this vision correction option to our patients.
Author Information
Authored by Sheraz Daya MD FACP FACS FRCS(Ed) FRCOphth, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon & Medical Director, June 2019.
Next review due June 2024.