LASIK surgery is a widely performed procedure designed to correct common vision problems, offering many individuals the opportunity to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. People considering this elective surgery often wonder about the type of anesthesia used during the process. This concern is understandable, as the idea of eye surgery can lead to questions about comfort and pain management.
Anesthesia During LASIK: What to Expect
General anesthesia, which induces unconsciousness, is not typically used for LASIK surgery. Patients must be awake and able to fixate on a target light for precise corneal reshaping. General anesthesia would compromise eye movements and increase risks. Furthermore, it carries its own risks, including longer recovery times and potential side effects such as nausea or drowsiness, which are avoided with alternative methods.
Instead, the standard practice involves topical anesthetic eye drops, such as proparacaine, lidocaine, or tetracaine. These drops are administered directly to the eye surface, effectively numbing the corneal tissue within minutes. This localized numbing ensures patients do not feel pain during the procedure. No injections or needles are used to numb the eye during LASIK.
Some clinics may offer a mild oral sedative, such as a benzodiazepine like Valium (diazepam), to help patients relax. This medication primarily alleviates anxiety and promotes calmness. It does not induce unconsciousness or contribute to pain relief, as numbing drops manage sensation.
Managing Patient Comfort and Anxiety
Numbing eye drops applied before LASIK effectively prevent pain. While patients may perceive sensations of pressure or touch, acute pain is not typical. For apprehensive individuals, a mild oral sedative is often provided. This medication calms nerves and promotes relaxation, allowing patients to remain comfortable and cooperative throughout the brief procedure.
Patients remain awake and can communicate with the surgeon to follow instructions. Clinics often maintain a supportive environment, with staff providing reassurance and guidance. This focus on patient comfort, combined with effective numbing drops and optional mild sedation, contributes to a smooth experience.
The LASIK Experience: What Patients Feel
During the LASIK procedure, patients experience specific sensations rather than pain. A common feeling is a brief, gentle pressure on the eye when a suction ring is applied to stabilize the eye for flap creation. This pressure is temporary and resolves quickly. As the excimer laser reshapes the cornea, patients typically hear a distinct clicking or buzzing sound.
Patients may also observe various flashing lights, including a target light to focus on, and other patterns of light during the laser’s operation. Pain is not felt due to the numbing drops. The actual laser application is brief, often lasting less than 15 to 30 seconds per eye, with the entire procedure for both eyes completed within 10 to 20 minutes. This short duration contributes to a manageable experience.