Q: Is the procedure painful?
A: No, local anaesthetic drops are used to numb the eyes before lazer eye treatment. Mild sensations might be felt during treatment and the vision will go blurred for a couple of minutes. Sometimes, just after the operation patients have a gritty sensation but this should disappear within 12 to 24 hours.
Q: Can I stop wearing glasses or contact lenses after surgery?
A: Yes. About 97% of patients who undergo laser eye surgery do not need any type of visual correction after their treatment and the remainder only need glasses for driving and close-up work. For the majority of cases just one treatment is required to give permanent benefits, however it cannot prevent the eyes’ natural ageing process. From the age of 45, for example, the eye’s focusing ability starts to change which means that glasses are required for close up reading, this is called presbyopia, and is completely different to hyperopia (long sightedness) or myopia (short sightedness) as it cannot be prevented or delayed by laser or non-laser treatments.
Q: Can I have both eyes done on the same day?
A: Yes, with LASIK and LASIK Wavefront, but the eyes need to be done separately with PRK, LASEK and Intraocular Lens Implant surgery.
Q: Are all lasers the same?
A: No, there are many different types of lasers and some providers might be able to offer the surgery at a lower price by using a less ‘cutting edge’ laser technology, so it is advisable to ask this question during your consultation.
Q: Are there any long term complications?
A: Complications are minimal in the hands of an experienced lazer eye treatment surgeon and clinical team, however, no surgical procedure is risk free, and there is a tiny chance of complications, most of which can be resolved within the first few months. The most common complication is dry eye, which in the vast majority of patients resolves after the first few months.
Q: How quickly can I go back to work?
A: 48 hours after LASIK, but a few more days with LASEK or PRK procedures.
Get a quote for laser eye treatment
If you are looking for a quote for laser eye surgery, or want more information about treatment in your local area, you can complete the Laser Eye Surgery Enquiry Form. Your enquiry will be forwarded to a maximum of three clinics or providers of laser eye treatment who partner with the Private Healthcare UK web site.
