How LASIK Reshapes Vision: Procedure, Risks, and Recovery Timeline

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) remains one of the most effective vision correction procedures available. By reshaping the cornea, it improves how light enters the eye—potentially reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contacts. For those considering this option, SuraVision’s LASIK eye surgery provides personalized treatment with advanced technology and expert care.

This guide covers how the procedure works, ideal candidates, possible side effects, and what recovery typically looks like.

What LASIK Does

The cornea is the outermost part of the eye. It helps bend light so that images can focus clearly on the retina. When the shape of the cornea is irregular, light is misdirected. This leads to refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. LASIK works by using a laser to reshape the cornea’s curvature to improve focus.

During LASIK, a flap is created in the corneal surface. A computer-guided laser then removes microscopic amounts of tissue to correct the eye’s focusing ability. The flap is repositioned after the adjustment is complete.

Who Benefits

LASIK is intended for individuals with stable vision prescriptions and healthy eyes. The most common candidates are those with:

• Myopia (nearsightedness): Objects nearby are visible, while distant items appear blurry. This usually results from the cornea being too steep. LASIK corrects this by flattening the central cornea.
• Hyperopia (farsightedness): Distant objects remain clear, but close-up views are out of focus. Here, the cornea tends to be too flat. The laser reshapes it into a steeper curve.
• Astigmatism: A cornea that is more oval than round can distort vision at all distances. LASIK can adjust this irregular curvature to create more even light refraction.

Candidates generally must be over 18, have a consistent prescription for at least 12 months, and not have eye diseases that affect healing or corneal stability.

When LASIK May Not Be Recommended

Some people are not eligible due to health conditions, eye structure, or lifestyle factors. LASIK may not be advised for people who:

• Have thin or irregular corneas
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Take medications that impact vision
• Experience frequent prescription changes
• Have active eye infections or certain chronic eye conditions

Other factors include autoimmune diseases or healing disorders that may interfere with tissue recovery after surgery.

What Happens During the Procedure

LASIK is a short outpatient procedure. The entire process takes roughly 30 minutes for both eyes. Most of that time involves preparation and positioning.

Patients lie on a flat surgical bed. Numbing drops are applied to the eyes. A lid holder keeps the eye open without blinking. A small device creates a flap in the cornea. This flap is then lifted, and a cool laser beam reshapes the exposed tissue. Patients are asked to focus on a light point while the laser works.

The laser adjustments are completed within a few minutes per eye. After the correction, the flap is returned to its original position to heal naturally without sutures. A protective cover is applied.

Sensations After Surgery

Patients may feel slight discomfort once the anesthetic drops wear off. Common symptoms include burning, itching, or the feeling of a foreign object in the eye. These symptoms are expected and usually resolve within hours. The surgeon may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to ease irritation.

Vision may initially seem hazy or fluctuate slightly. Most people experience improved eyesight within 24 to 48 hours, although full stabilization can take weeks to months.

Recovery Time and Follow-Up

Patients are typically advised to rest for the remainder of the day after surgery. It is common to take a few days off from work or school to allow the eyes to recover. Surgeons often recommend protective eyewear at night to prevent unintentional eye contact during sleep.

Follow-up appointments begin within the first two days after the procedure. These check whether the corneal flap is healing properly and if there are any early signs of irritation or infection. Further visits are typically scheduled at regular intervals over the next several months.

During the recovery period, it is recommended to avoid:

• Rubbing the eyes
• Swimming or using hot tubs
• Heavy exercise or contact sports
• Makeup or facial products near the eye

Healing speed may differ between individuals, but most people return to regular activities within one week.

Common Side Effects

Like any surgery, LASIK has potential side effects. Some are temporary, while others may require additional evaluation.

• Dry eyes: A large percentage of patients experience reduced tear production. This typically improves within a few months. Artificial tears may help during this time.
• Halos or glare: Night driving may be more difficult for some individuals during the first weeks. Lights may appear to have rings or produce reflections.
• Blurry or double vision: Some patients report vision disturbances early in recovery. In rare cases, this may persist and need further care.

Most symptoms improve within days to weeks. If they persist beyond this period, it is best to consult an eye care specialist.

Potential Complications

Although complications are rare, they may occur in some cases. These can include:

• Inflammation beneath the flap (diffuse lamellar keratitis)
• Displaced or wrinkled corneal flap
• Eye infections
• Sensitivity to light
• Fluctuating vision long after surgery

Proper screening, careful post-op care, and timely follow-ups reduce the likelihood of long-term issues.

Expected Results

Many people experience 20/25 vision or better after LASIK. Most achieve sufficient vision to perform daily tasks without glasses or contact lenses. Results vary based on age, severity of refractive error, and eye health.

Vision may change slightly over time due to natural aging. Some people require reading glasses years later, especially if they undergo surgery before middle age.

Enhancement procedures may be considered if the first surgery does not yield the expected results. These are generally minor corrections.

Summary

LASIK is a fast, effective option for vision correction in people with stable refractive errors. It reshapes the cornea to improve how light enters the eye. Although it may not be right for everyone, it remains a reliable choice for those who meet the criteria. Proper consultation, realistic expectations, and adherence to recovery guidelines help maximize outcomes.