Everything You Need to Know About Laser Eye Surgery
Considering laser eye surgery? We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions to help you make informed decisions. Whether you’re curious about eligibility, the recovery process, or long-term results, this FAQ section covers it all — clearly and confidently. Backed by expert insights from Precision Vision London, your vision is in trusted hands.
1. What exactly is Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser Eye Surgery is a procedure that reshapes the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) using a precise laser to correct refractive errors like short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. This improves vision, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
2. What’s the difference between LASIK and LASEK/PRK?
– LASIK: A thin flap is created, and the laser reshapes the cornea underneath. Recovery is fast (1-2 days).
– LASEK/PRK: The outer layer is gently removed (no flap), and the laser treats the surface. Recovery takes longer (5-7 days).
3. Am I suitable for Laser Eye Surgery?
Most people with stable vision prescriptions (unchanged for 1+ years), healthy eyes, and no underlying medical conditions (e.g., severe dry eye, keratoconus) are good candidates. A full consultation will determine eligibility.
4. Is there an age limit for Laser Eye Surgery?
The minimum age is 18 (when vision stabilizes). There’s no strict upper limit, but after 45, presbyopia (age-related near-vision loss) may require Lens Replacement or reading glasses.
5. Can I have Laser Eye Surgery if I have astigmatism?
Yes! LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE can all correct astigmatism.
6. What types of Laser Eye Surgery does Precision Vision London offer?
We offer:
• LASIK (flap-based, quick recovery)
• LASEK/PRK (surface treatment, suitable for thinner corneas)
7. Can Laser Eye Surgery correct presbyopia (age-related reading vision loss)?
Yes, PRESBYOND® Laser Blended Vision adjusts one eye slightly for near vision while the other focuses on distance, reducing dependency on reading glasses.
8. How long does the actual laser treatment take?
The laser itself takes 10-30 seconds per eye, but the full procedure (prep, laser, recovery) takes 10-15 minutes per eye.
9. Is Laser Eye Surgery painful?
No—numbing drops are used, so you only feel slight pressure. Some patients report mild discomfort (like an eyelash in the eye) for a few hours afterward.
10. Will I be awake during the procedure?
Yes, but you’ll be given mild sedation (not general anaesthesia) to keep you relaxed.
11. How stable does my vision prescription need to be?
Your glasses/contact lens prescription should be unchanged for at least 12 months.
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12. What factors might make me ineligible for Laser Eye Surgery?
- Thin or irregular corneas
- Unstable vision prescription
- Severe dry eye syndrome
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
13. Can I have surgery if I have dry eyes?
Mild dry eyes may be treated before surgery. Severe cases may disqualify you—this is assessed in consultation.
14. Can I have Laser Eye Surgery if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
No—hormonal changes can affect vision stability. Wait 3-6 months after breastfeeding ends.
15. What tests are involved in the consultation and assessment?
- Corneal topography (mapping)
- Pachymetry (corneal thickness)
- Wavefront analysis (custom treatment plan)
- Pupil dilation (checking retina health)
16. How long does the initial consultation take?
About 90 minutes, including scans and discussion with your surgeon.
17. Do I need to stop wearing contact lenses before the consultation/surgery?
Yes:
- Soft lenses: Stop 1 week before.
- Rigid (hard) lenses: Stop 4 weeks before.
18. What are the potential risks and complications?
- Dry eyes (usually temporary)
- Glare/halos at night (improves over weeks)
- Under correction/overcorrection (rare, may need enhancement)
- Infection (extremely rare with proper aftercare)
19. How common are serious complications?
Very rare (<1% with modern lasers and expert surgeons).
20. What are the most common side effects?
- Mild dryness (3-6 months)
- Light sensitivity (1-2 days)
- Temporary blurred vision (first 24 hours)
21. How effective is Laser Eye Surgery? What are the success rates?
- 98% of patients achieve 20/40 vision or better (driving standard).
- 90% achieve 20/20 or better.
22. Is Laser Eye Surgery permanent? Can my vision regress?
Yes, it’s permanent, but age-related changes (e.g., presbyopia, cataracts) may affect vision later.
23. Will I still need reading glasses after surgery?
If you’re over 45, you may need PRESBYOND® or reading glasses for close-up tasks.
24. Can Laser Eye Surgery cause blindness?
No—modern lasers have safety mechanisms, and complications leading to blindness are exceptionally rare.
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25. What should I expect on the day of surgery?
- Final eye checks
- Numbing drops applied
- Laser treatment (10-15 mins per eye)
- Post-op rest before going home
26. Can I eat or drink before surgery?
Yes, but avoid alcohol.
27. Should I take my regular medications?
Check with your surgeon—some (like blood thinners) may need adjustment.
28. Can I wear makeup or perfume on surgery day?
No—avoid makeup, perfume, and lotions to reduce infection risk.
29. Do I need someone to drive me home?
Yes—you cannot drive immediately after surgery.
30. What will I experience during the laser treatment?
- Pressure sensation (from the eyelid holder)
- A clicking sound (from the laser)
- A faint smell (from the laser interacting with corneal tissue)
31. What is the typical recovery time?
- LASIK/SMILE: 24-48 hours
- LASEK/PRK: 5-7 days
32. What will my vision be like immediately after surgery?
Blurry, watery, and slightly gritty (like sand in the eye). Improves within 24 hours (LASIK/SMILE) or 3-5 days (LASEK/PRK).
32. How soon can I return to work?
- LASIK/SMILE: 1-2 days
- LASEK/PRK: 3-5 days
33. What activities should I avoid after surgery?
- Rubbing eyes (1 month)
- Swimming (2 weeks)
- Eye makeup (1 week)
- Contact sports (1 month)
34. Can I drive after surgery?
Only when your surgeon confirms your vision meets legal standards (usually 24 hours post-LASIK/SMILE).
35. How often will I need follow-up appointments?
- Next day
- 1 week
- 1 month
- 3-6 months
36. What eye drops will I need to use and for how long?
- Antibiotic drops (1 week)
- Anti-inflammatory drops (1-2 weeks)
- Lubricating drops (3-6 months)
37. How do I manage discomfort or pain after surgery?
- Rest with eyes closed
- Use prescribed drops
- Take paracetamol if needed
Why choose Precision Vision for Laser Eye Treatment?
Precision Vision London sets the standard in laser eye treatments, with Advanced Wavefront technology used in all our procedures, ensuring our patients always get the best results.. Our clinic features the world’s highest-performance eye laser for refractive and therapeutic corneal surgery. Both FDA-approved laser vision correction treatments, Lasik and Lasek, are offered at our clinic.
Precision Vision London is committed to providing truly personalised treatment plans, uniquely tailored for each eye of every patient. Dr. Pillai, our Medical Director and laser surgeon, stands as one of the pioneering surgeons in the UK to execute bilateral Lasik treatment, treating both eyes on the same day. With over 30 years of experience as an ophthalmic surgeon, Dr. Pillai specialises in refractive and corneal procedures, ensuring the highest level of expertise and care for our patients.
In cases where laser treatment is deemed unsuitable for a patient, Precision Vision London provides alternative treatment options to correct their prescription. With the country's largest independent optometrist network, patients have the flexibility to receive treatment at the Harley Street clinic and convenient aftercare at a location closer to them. Our commitment to transparency extends to pricing, ensuring that all patients, regardless of the complexity of their prescription, pay the same price for our services.
38. What are the signs of a potential complication?
- Severe pain
- Sudden vision loss
- Increasing redness/discharge
(Contact us immediately if these occur.)
39. What are the myths about Laser Eye Surgery?
- Myth: “It’s painful.” Reality: Virtually painless.
- Myth: “Everyone gets dry eyes forever.” Reality: Usually temporary.
- Myth: “It’s too new.” Reality: LASIK has been safe for 30+ years.
40. Why choose Precision Vision London over other clinics?
- Expert surgeons (FRCOphth, MD qualified)
- Latest laser technology
- Personalised care & lifetime aftercare
41. What are the qualifications of your surgeons?
Our surgeons are UK-trained, NHS consultants with 10+ years of experience.
42. What if my vision isn’t perfect after surgery?
If needed, we offer enhancements within the first 12 months at no extra cost.
43. Can you guarantee 20/20 vision?
While most achieve 20/20 or better, individual results vary. We do not guarantee perfection due to biological factors.
Life-Changing Laser Eye Surgery in Harley Street London
At Precision Vision London, we offer expert-led, cost-effective laser eye surgery designed to give you the freedom of clear vision. As a trusted, independent clinic, we specialise in advanced vision correction procedures tailored to your unique needs—helping 100% of our patients achieve 20/20 vision or better.
Experience world-class laser eye surgery in London, performed by leading ophthalmologists using cutting-edge technology. Our expert team, including Dr. CT Pillai, a globally recognised surgeon with over 30 years of experience and 50,000+ successful procedures, is dedicated to delivering exceptional vision correction with precision and care.
✅ Advanced treatments for all prescriptions
✅ Expert surgeon-led care
✅ Personalised consultations
Call us today 020 3884 6805 and start your journey to clear, hassle-free vision!
