Common Questions About Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery is a medical procedure that reshapes the cornea using a precise laser to correct vision problems such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism. The aim is to allow light to focus correctly on the retina, improving clarity without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Techniques such as LASIK, LASEK and TransPRK use different approaches to achieve this result depending on your individual eye structure and prescription.

Most adults with a stable prescription and healthy eyes are suitable for laser eye surgery. You should be over 18, in good general health, and not currently pregnant or breastfeeding. At Centre for Sight, we carry out thorough diagnostics including corneal mapping and prescription stability checks to determine your eligibility and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

The laser eye procedure itself usually takes just 10 to 15 minutes per eye, but you should allow around 1.5 to 2 hours at the clinic on the day of your treatment. This includes preparation, checks, and recovery time. Most patients report minimal discomfort and can return home shortly after surgery.

No, laser eye surgery is not painful. Your eyes will be numbed with anaesthetic eye drops before the procedure, so you won’t feel the laser. You may experience mild pressure or a sensation of movement, but not pain. Some patients experience a gritty or dry feeling afterwards, which typically resolves within a few days.

Recovery is quick for most people. Many patients return to work and daily activities within 24 to 48 hours, especially after LASIK. For surface treatments like PRK or LASEK, recovery can take a few days longer. Your vision may fluctuate slightly during the healing process, but it typically stabilises within a few weeks. At Centre for Sight, we monitor your progress with regular follow-up appointments.

As with any medical procedure, laser eye surgery carries some risks, though complications are rare. Temporary side effects can include dry eyes, light sensitivity, and halos around lights at night. In rare cases, infection, under-correction, or over-correction may occur. At Centre for Sight, we use advanced diagnostics and personalised treatment plans to minimise risks and maximise outcomes.

For the majority of patients, the results of laser eye surgery are long-lasting. Once the cornea is reshaped, your vision should remain stable for many years. However, natural changes in the eye due to ageing – such as presbyopia or cataracts – may affect your vision later in life. These conditions can be treated at Centre for Sight with other solutions such as lens replacement surgery.

Yes, laser eye surgery can correct astigmatism. In fact, many patients with mild to moderate astigmatism benefit significantly from laser treatment. The laser is programmed to reshape the cornea evenly, correcting the uneven curvature that causes blurred or distorted vision. Your consultant will assess the level and type of astigmatism to determine the best treatment option.

• LASIK involves creating a thin flap in the cornea before reshaping the underlying tissue.
• LASEK and TransPRK are surface procedures where the top layer is gently removed and the laser is applied directly.

Each technique has its own advantages and is suited to different eye types. At Centre for Sight, our surgeons recommend the most suitable approach based on your eye health and lifestyle.

Centre for Sight is one of the UK’s most trusted private eye hospitals, with over 25 years of experience in consultant-led care. We provide:

• Personalised assessments and treatment planning
• Access to advanced laser technologies including Pro and iDesign
• Purpose-built, CQC-registered facilities in Sussex, Surrey, and Harley Street
• Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
• Outstanding outcomes and a strong reputation among both patients and professionals

We’re committed to delivering exceptional results and supporting your vision journey every step of the way.