LASIK eye surgery is one of the most popular and effective procedures to correct refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Still, many people wonder: “Does LASIK surgery hurt?” It’s normal to feel worried since the procedure involves the eyes, one of the most sensitive organs in the body. To clear up these concerns, let’s go through the facts below.
Does LASIK Surgery Cause Pain?
Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is a laser eye surgery designed to reshape the cornea so that light can focus properly on the retina. As a result, patients enjoy sharper and clearer vision without relying on glasses or contact lenses.
Why LASIK is so popular:
- Quick procedure – only a few minutes per eye.
- Fast recovery – most patients return to normal activities the next day.
- Safe and effective – with a very low risk of complications.
Before surgery, anesthetic eye drops are applied, so patients do not feel pain during the procedure. What you may feel instead is mild pressure or slight discomfort when the instrument is placed on the eye. After LASIK, some patients may experience:
- Watery eyes.
- A gritty or sandy feeling.
- Mild itching.
These symptoms are temporary and usually disappear within 6–12 hours.
Post-LASIK Care Tips
To ensure smooth healing and the best results, follow your doctor’s instructions after LASIK surgery:
✅ What you should do:
- Attend follow-up appointments (within 24 hours, then regularly for up to 6 months).
- Use prescribed eye drops as directed.
- Get enough rest and wear protective shields while sleeping.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors or in dusty environments.
❌ What you should avoid:
- Rubbing your eyes.
- Prolonged smartphone or screen use immediately after surgery.
- Wearing eye makeup or applying skincare around the eyes for the first 2 weeks.
- Swimming or hot tubs for 1–2 months.
- Heavy workouts or contact sports during the first month.
When to Call Your Doctor
In most cases, LASIK does not cause severe pain. The most common temporary side effect is dry eyes within the first week.
However, if you experience unusual symptoms—such as severe eye pain, sudden vision loss, or persistent redness—contact your doctor right away for further evaluation.
It’s important to note that the LASIK failure rate is less than 1%, making it a very safe procedure for qualified candidates.
Safe and Comfortable LASIK at JEC
As the pioneer of Femtosecond Laser technology in Indonesia, JEC offers LASIK procedures that are precise, advanced, and patient-friendly. With experienced ophthalmologists and state-of-the-art technology, you can enjoy clearer vision without glasses or contact lenses.
So, does LASIK surgery hurt? The answer is: No. It’s safe, painless, and quick.
✨ Trust JEC to bring your vision back to clarity!
INA