Procedure guide · Ophthalmology (refractive surgery)
LASIK is laser surgery that permanently reshapes the cornea, the clear front layer of the eye, to reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses. MedlinePlus says it is most often used for short sight and can also treat long sight and astigmatism. Not everyone is suitable. The detailed measurements taken before surgery decide whether you can go ahead.
What is LASIK?
MedlinePlus describes the steps. A thin hinged flap is made in the cornea, usually with a femtosecond laser. The flap is lifted and an excimer laser removes a thin layer of tissue beneath it to change the cornea’s shape. The flap is then laid back down without stitches. The only anaesthetic is numbing eye drops and you are awake. Both eyes may be treated in one session.
The NHS groups LASIK under laser eye surgery, alongside lens surgery in which an artificial lens is placed in the eye. It notes that these operations are not usually offered on the NHS, which is why many people pay privately.
Who may be suitable for LASIK?
MedlinePlus lists several general requirements. Your eyes must be healthy and your prescription stable. Patients are generally at least 18, and 21 for some lasers. Your prescription must fall within the range LASIK can correct. It may not be recommended for people with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, glaucoma, eye herpes infections or cataracts. It should be avoided in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, and with certain medicines.
These are general points only. The NHS says the right type of surgery depends on factors such as age and eye health. Some people are better suited to a different laser method or to lens surgery. The surgeon decides after examining you.
Reading glasses later
MedlinePlus notes that LASIK cannot give both distance and near focus in one eye. Most people are likely to need reading glasses around the age of 45 even after distance vision is corrected. Some choose monovision, with one eye set for near and one for far.
What tests are needed before LASIK?
MedlinePlus describes a complete eye examination plus tests of corneal curvature, pupil size, refractive error and corneal thickness. You also sign a consent form covering risks, benefits and alternatives. Before you travel, share:
- Glasses or contact lens prescriptions from the last few years, to show stability
- Any corneal mapping or eye scan reports you already have
- Diagnoses such as dry eye, keratoconus, glaucoma or diabetes
- Your current medicines
- How long you have worn contact lenses and what type
Ask the clinic whether you must stop wearing contact lenses before the assessment and for how long. Contact lenses can change the shape of the cornea, so clinics give specific instructions.
How should you plan the trip?
- Assessment: full examination and corneal measurements, ideally on a separate day from surgery
- Surgery: an outpatient procedure with numbing drops
- First night: MedlinePlus says an eye shield is usually worn overnight and you must not rub the eye
- Follow-up: MedlinePlus describes a check 24 to 48 hours after surgery
- Home: continued drops and review with your own optometrist
The NHS advises against driving home on the day of surgery. Bring a companion or arrange a car. MedlinePlus also lists activities such as swimming and eye make-up to avoid for a period after surgery. Ask your surgeon for written instructions.
What should you ask the clinic?
- Am I suitable for LASIK or would another laser method or lens surgery suit me better?
- How thick are my corneas and is that within your safe range?
- Who performs the surgery and who sees me the next day?
- What happens if I need a second treatment for under- or over-correction?
- When can I fly and what should I do if my eye becomes painful at home?
- Can you share the full assessment results for my own optometrist?
IndiaMedica does not assess eyes. We help you send records and compare written plans. Your surgeon decides who is suitable.
Questions people ask
What are the main risks of LASIK?
MedlinePlus lists risks including dry eyes, glare or halos, light sensitivity, night driving problems, infection, corneal scarring and reduced or lost vision. The NHS also mentions needing a second operation and under- or over-correction. Your surgeon should explain your own risks before you sign the consent form.
Is LASIK done under general anaesthetic?
No. MedlinePlus says the only anaesthetic used is eye drops that numb the surface of the eye. You are awake and usually given medicine to help you relax. Both eyes may be treated in the same session.
Why does the clinic ask for old prescriptions?
MedlinePlus says your prescription must be stable before LASIK. Older prescriptions help the surgeon see whether your eyes are still changing. If your prescription has shifted recently, the surgeon may advise waiting.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.