
One of the most common concerns people have before LASIK is whether the procedure hurts. It’s a natural concern, especially when you’re thinking about a procedure involving your eyes. At Brinton Vision, we talk with patients every day who are nervous about what LASIK feels like. Understanding what to expect can help ease those worries. In this article we will discus what you can expect to feel during and after your LASIK procedure. Schedule a consultation with Brinton Vision to learn if LASIK is right for you.
Does LASIK surgery hurt?
LASIK surgery does not hurt. At Brinton Vision, we use numbing eye drops before the procedure begins, which keeps patients comfortable throughout the process. Some people may feel brief pressure around the eye, but this sensation only lasts a few seconds. To help ease nerves, medication can also be provided to reduce anxiety. After the procedure, it’s common to feel a gritty or eyelash-like sensation for a few hours, but this typically fades quickly. Our team at Brinton Vision takes every step to make sure you feel informed, at ease, and well cared for during your LASIK experience.
What does LASIK feel like?
LASIK eye surgery is not painful, but it can feel unusual, like a pressure. At Brinton Vision, numbing eye drops are used to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. You may feel a brief pressure sensation—often described as a light thumb press on the eye—when the corneal flap is created. The laser reshaping step itself doesn’t cause pain and is guided by precise computer technology. Some patients feel mild discomfort related more to nerves than the procedure itself, but a calming sedative can be given if needed. Brinton Vision is committed to making the experience as smooth and reassuring as possible for every patient.
Will I have any pain after my LASIK procedure?
Some patients may have some mild discomfort after their LASIK procedure, but it is typically short-lived and manageable. Once the numbing drops wear off, you might notice a burning or scratchy feeling, dryness, or a sensation like something is in your eye. These symptoms usually fade within a few hours to a couple of days. Severe pain is rare and could be a sign of a complication, in which case you should contact your doctor. At Brinton Vision, we closely monitor your recovery and are always available to answer questions or address concerns as you heal.
Are there any rare complications from LASIK that could cause pain?
Yes, although LASIK is generally safe and painless, rare complications can cause pain. Infections or problems with the corneal flap may lead to discomfort, but these issues are uncommon and treatable when addressed quickly. At Brinton Vision, we take every precaution to minimize risks and closely monitor your healing process to ensure a smooth recovery. Our team is always available if you experience anything outside of the expected mild symptoms.
Ready for Clear Vision Without the Worry?
Most patients are relieved to learn that LASIK is a quick, comfortable, and painless procedure. With expert care, advanced technology, and a supportive team at Brinton Vision, you don’t have to let fear hold you back from better vision. If you’ve been putting off LASIK because you’re worried it might hurt, we’re here to help you feel confident every step of the way. Schedule your consultation with Brinton Vision today and take the first step toward life without glasses or contacts.
Are you ready to take the next step in your visual freedom?
FAQ’s About Does LASIK Hurt
How long does LASIK pain last if I feel any?
Any discomfort after LASIK at Brinton Vision typically lasts only a few hours. Some patients experience a mild burning, itching, or gritty feeling once the numbing drops wear off, but these symptoms resolve quickly. Severe or lasting pain is very uncommon. If you feel something unusual, our team is here to evaluate your eyes and make sure everything is healing properly.
Can LASIK cause long-term eye pain?
Long-term pain after LASIK is very rare. The procedure is designed to be minimally invasive and safe, and most patients heal without complications. At Brinton Vision, we closely monitor your recovery to ensure that your eyes are healing correctly and that there is no prolonged irritation or inflammation affecting your comfort.
Is LASIK more painful than other types of eye surgery?
Compared to other forms of refractive surgery, LASIK is generally one of the least painful. Thanks to advanced laser technology and local anesthesia, most patients at Brinton Vision report little to no pain. You might feel some pressure or mild discomfort, but overall, the experience is very manageable. Across the United States, LASIK continues to be a preferred option for vision correction because of its comfort and quick recovery.
Can LASIK hurt more if I have dry eyes?
Yes, people with dry eye syndrome may notice more discomfort after LASIK. That’s why Brinton Vision performs detailed pre-op testing to check for dryness and treat it beforehand. Addressing dry eyes before surgery helps minimize post-op symptoms and keeps you more comfortable throughout recovery.
What does it mean if I have pain days after LASIK?
Pain several days after LASIK is not typical and could be a sign of a complication like infection or tissue irritation. Brinton Vision encourages patients to report any unusual symptoms immediately so we can examine the eye and provide appropriate care. Quick action helps prevent long-term issues.
Will my eyes itch during LASIK recovery?
Some patients experience an itch or mild irritation in the first few hours after surgery, which is part of the normal healing process. At Brinton Vision, we’ll provide instructions and eye drops to manage symptoms without rubbing or touching your eyes, which can interfere with healing.
Can LASIK make my eyelid feel sore?
While rare, temporary eyelid tenderness can occur from the device used to keep your eye open during surgery. At Brinton Vision, our team takes special care to minimize pressure and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure and recovery. Any soreness usually resolves within a day or two.
Will wearing sunglasses after LASIK reduce discomfort?
Yes, wearing sunglasses after LASIK helps protect your healing eyes from bright light and wind, which can cause irritation. At Brinton Vision, we recommend high-quality sunglasses to reduce sensitivity during the first few days and support a smoother recovery process.
Does LASIK hurt more if I have high myopia or astigmatism?
No, having high myopia or astigmatism doesn’t make the LASIK procedure itself more painful. The laser correction process feels the same regardless of the prescription. Brinton Vision customizes each treatment plan—including for conditions like astigmatism or farsightedness—using detailed corneal topography to guide the procedure.
Can LASIK affect my sense of vision or visual perception in a painful way?
LASIK does not cause pain through changes in visual perception. Adjusting to sharper vision can feel unusual at first, but it’s not painful. At Brinton Vision, we track your visual acuity during recovery and make sure your eyes are healing as expected after replacing your corrective lens or contact lens needs. If you’re suffering from any unexpected signs and symptoms, our ophthalmology-trained surgeon will address them right away.