How Long Does Laser Eye Surgery Take?

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.

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.

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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.

Author Information

Authored by Sheraz Daya MD FACP FACS FRCS(Ed) FRCOphth, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon & Medical Director, June 2019.

Net review due June 2026

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