Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is a widely performed refractive procedure designed to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The surgery reshapes the cornea so light focuses correctly onto the retina, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. While the actual laser application is one of the fastest medical procedures available, the total time a patient spends at the clinic on the day of surgery is much longer. This extended period accounts for necessary preparation, the procedure itself, and a brief recovery phase.
Pre-Surgical Preparation and Waiting Period
The patient’s time at the surgical center begins with administrative and clinical preparation. Upon arrival, final consent forms are reviewed and signed to ensure the patient understands the procedure and recovery. This is followed by the administration of specialized eye drops. Numbing drops are applied to the eye surface to block sensation and ensure comfort during the procedure.
Many centers also provide a mild oral sedative to help the patient relax and minimize anxiety. The patient then waits in a preparation area for approximately 10 to 20 minutes for the drops and sedative to take full effect. This preparation time is often the longest single period of the entire visit.
The Actual Procedure: Laser Time Per Eye
The total time a patient spends inside the sterile laser suite, from walking in to walking out, is typically brief, lasting about 10 to 15 minutes for both eyes. Once positioned, an eyelid holder (speculum) is gently placed to keep the eye open and prevent blinking. The surgeon first creates a thin, hinged flap in the outermost layer of the cornea. A high-speed femtosecond laser is often used for this precise flap creation, which takes only about 18 seconds per eye.
After the flap is lifted, the excimer laser performs the vision correction by reshaping the underlying corneal tissue. The active laser ablation time is remarkably short, typically ranging from 10 to 60 seconds per eye. This duration depends directly on the severity of the patient’s prescription; higher degrees of correction require slightly longer application of the laser energy. Once the reshaping is complete, the corneal flap is repositioned to act as a natural bandage, and the eye’s natural adhesion process begins immediately.
Immediate Post-Operative Observation and Review
Following the rapid procedure, the patient is escorted to a recovery or post-operative observation area. This period allows the eyes to begin initial healing in a controlled and restful environment. Patients are advised to rest with their eyes closed for a period, often lasting between 15 and 30 minutes.
During this observation period, the surgeon or a technician performs a quick check to ensure the corneal flaps are correctly seated and stable. The staff then reviews the comprehensive post-operative care instructions, including the schedule for medicated and lubricating eye drops. Patients are also given protective eye shields to wear, particularly while sleeping, to prevent accidental rubbing or pressure on the eyes.
Calculating Your Total Clinic Time Commitment
The total time commitment at the clinic is a multi-stage process. The entire visit, from check-in to discharge, typically ranges from 90 to 120 minutes. This duration encompasses the initial paperwork, the administration of numbing and relaxing drops, the 10-to-15-minute procedure, and the 15-to-30-minute post-operative rest and review.
Patients should plan their day accordingly, recognizing that preparation and safety requirements extend the total time beyond the few minutes of laser activity. It is necessary to arrange for transportation home, as driving is not permitted immediately after the procedure due to the effects of the sedative and temporarily blurred vision. Planning for this two-hour window ensures a relaxed and organized experience on the day of the surgery.