Laser eye surgery has helped millions of people worldwide reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. With modern technology achieving success rates above 96%, it has become one of the most reliable elective procedures available. This guide explains the different types of laser surgery, who is suitable, and what the experience is really like.
Types of Laser Eye Surgery
LASIK is the most commonly performed procedure. A thin flap is created in the cornea, the underlying tissue is reshaped with an excimer laser, and the flap is replaced. Recovery is rapid, with most patients seeing clearly within 24 hours. LASEK and PRK are surface-based procedures that do not create a corneal flap. They are better suited to patients with thinner corneas but have a longer recovery time of one to two weeks. SMILE is a newer, minimally invasive technique that uses a femtosecond laser to reshape the cornea through a tiny incision.
Who Is Suitable?
Candidates should be at least 18 years old with a stable prescription that has not changed significantly in the past two years. The procedure can correct short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. It is not suitable for everyone: conditions such as keratoconus, severe dry eyes, or very high prescriptions may rule it out. A comprehensive pre-assessment determines your suitability.
Costs and What to Expect
Prices in the UK range from £1,000 to £3,000 per eye depending on the procedure and clinic. The surgery itself takes around 15–30 minutes for both eyes. You will be awake throughout, with anaesthetic eye drops ensuring you feel no pain. After LASIK, most people return to work within one to two days. After LASEK/PRK, expect five to seven days of discomfort and gradual visual improvement.
Risks and Long-Term Outcomes
Common short-term side effects include dry eyes, halos around lights, and sensitivity to glare, which usually resolve within three to six months. Serious complications are rare, occurring in less than 1% of procedures. Long-term studies show that the vast majority of patients maintain excellent vision for 10 years or more, though some age-related changes (such as presbyopia) will still occur naturally.
Key Takeaways
- LASIK is the most common procedure with a success rate above 96%.
- Laser eye surgery costs £1,000–£3,000 per eye in the UK.
- Most patients return to work within 1–2 days after LASIK.
- A thorough pre-assessment is essential to determine your suitability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser eye surgery permanent?
The correction itself is permanent, but your eyes may change with age. A small percentage of patients need a minor enhancement procedure years later.
Can both eyes be done at the same time?
Yes, both eyes are typically treated in the same session.
Does laser eye surgery hurt?
You will not feel pain during the procedure thanks to anaesthetic drops, though you may feel some pressure.
Written by
Mr. Richard Cole
FRCOphth, Consultant Ophthalmologist
This guide has been written and fact-checked by a qualified professional to ensure accuracy. All information is regularly reviewed and updated. Wisehande editorial standards require expert authorship and peer review for every guide we publish.
