Surgery
Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery reshapes the front of the eye (cornea) to correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness or astigmatism, often reducing the need for glasses.
Quick answer
Laser Eye Surgery: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Laser eye surgery uses a precise laser to reshape the cornea so that light focuses correctly on the retina. Common types include LASIK and LASEK.
- Why it is done: It is used to correct refractive errors — short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism — in suitable people who want to reduce or remove their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
- What happens: Under numbing eye drops, the laser reshapes the cornea in a procedure lasting only a few minutes per eye.
What it is
Laser eye surgery uses a precise laser to reshape the cornea so that light focuses correctly on the retina. Common types include LASIK and LASEK. It is usually done privately rather than on the NHS.
Why it is done
It is used to correct refractive errors — short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism — in suitable people who want to reduce or remove their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
What happens
Under numbing eye drops, the laser reshapes the cornea in a procedure lasting only a few minutes per eye. In LASIK a thin flap is created first; in LASEK the surface layer is moved aside.
Recovery
Vision often improves within a day or two, though it can fluctuate at first. LASIK usually recovers faster than LASEK. Eye drops are used for a while, and strenuous activity and eye rubbing are avoided early on.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include dry eyes, glare or halos, under- or over-correction, and rarely more serious problems. Not everyone is suitable, and the result may still change with age, sometimes needing glasses later.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Laser Eye Surgery: frequently asked questions
Is laser eye surgery permanent?
The reshaping of the cornea is permanent, but your eyes can still change with age, so you may need reading glasses later in life or, occasionally, a further procedure.
Am I suitable for laser eye surgery?
Suitability depends on your prescription, corneal thickness, eye health and age. A detailed assessment is needed, and some people are advised against it or offered alternatives such as lens surgery.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
Building patient-education content for procedures?
We create clear, accurate, referenced medical explainers and decision aids for teams and learners.