When it comes to laser eye surgery, no two patients arrive with the same set of questions. Some want to know about costs, others worry about pain, and a few ask the kinds of questions they almost feel embarrassed to raise. As an eye surgeon, I always reassure people that no question is too unusual — if it matters to you, it deserves a clear answer.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most common — and the most curious — questions I hear from patients considering laser vision correction in London.
What exactly is laser eye surgery?
Laser eye surgery, also known as laser vision correction, is a procedure that reshapes the cornea (the front surface of the eye) so that light is focused correctly on the retina. This improves vision and can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. The three main techniques are:- LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): A flap is created on the cornea, the underlying tissue is reshaped with a laser, and the flap is replaced. This is the most widely performed technique with a quick recovery.
- LASEK/PRK: The surface layer of the cornea is gently removed, the laser reshapes the cornea, and the surface heals naturally. It’s often recommended for patients with thinner corneas.
- SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): A newer, minimally invasive technique where a small lenticule of tissue is removed through a tiny incision, without creating a flap. Many patients find SMILE offers faster healing, less dry eye, and excellent stability.
Is laser eye surgery painful?
This is one of the most frequent concerns. The good news is that laser eye surgery is generally painless. Anaesthetic eye drops numb the surface of the eye before treatment, so patients usually feel only mild pressure or vibration during the procedure. After LASIK, most patients experience just a few hours of mild discomfort or dryness. LASEK/PRK can involve slightly longer recovery, with more irritation for a few days, but nothing unmanageable with prescribed drops and medication.How long does recovery take?
Most LASIK patients notice clearer vision within 24 hours and can return to work and normal activities within a couple of days. LASEK/PRK takes longer to recover — around one to two weeks for comfortable vision — but it can be the safer option for certain patients, especially those with thinner corneas. In both cases, full stabilisation of vision usually takes a few weeks. If you want to read more about what laser treatments are available please click hereAm I too old (or too young) for laser eye surgery?
Age does matter. The ideal age range is usually 21 to 45, when prescriptions have stabilised and before presbyopia (age-related reading difficulties) sets in. That said, many people in their fifties are still excellent candidates, especially if they don’t yet have significant lens changes. For older patients, options such as clear lens extraction or refractive lens exchange may be more appropriate than laser surgery. The right solution always depends on the health of your eyes and your visual goals.Can I go blind from laser eye surgery?
This is a very common but understandable fear. The reality is that the risk of serious vision loss from laser eye surgery is extremely rare. Globally, laser eye surgery has one of the best safety records of any elective procedure. Complications can occur, but with careful patient selection, advanced technology, and experienced surgeons, risks are minimised. Choosing a trusted centre, like The Harley Street Eye Centre, ensures the highest standards of safety.How much does laser eye surgery cost?
Prices vary depending on the clinic, the technology used, and the surgeon’s experience. In London, you can expect prices to range from £1,500 to £3,000 per eye. While cost is an important factor, I always encourage patients to consider the long-term value. A lower price may not include the same level of aftercare, advanced diagnostic technology, or surgical expertise. In eye surgery, expertise and safety should always take priority. (CTA: Button: Take advantage of our limited time offer)Will I need glasses again after surgery?
This is a great question. The answer depends on your age and expectations.- If you’re under 40, laser eye surgery can provide years of glasses-free vision.
- After 40, presbyopia (difficulty reading close-up) develops naturally, and you may still need reading glasses eventually.
- Some patients choose blended vision (monovision LASIK) to address presbyopia, where one eye is corrected for distance and the other for near tasks.
Can both eyes be treated at the same time?
Yes. In fact, most laser eye surgery is performed on both eyes in the same session. The procedure is quick (usually less than 15 minutes for both eyes), and recovery is generally smooth.What if I move my eyes during the procedure?
This is a question I hear often, sometimes whispered in the consultation room. Advanced laser systems are designed with eye-tracking technology that follows the tiniest movements of your eyes, adjusting the laser in real time. So even if you blink or twitch, the system compensates. It’s far less risky than patients imagine.Are the results permanent?
For most patients, yes — the results of laser eye surgery are permanent. The shape of the cornea doesn’t change back. However, natural ageing of the eyes still occurs. This means presbyopia will still appear in mid-life, and cataracts may develop later. Laser surgery doesn’t stop ageing, but it does permanently correct the refractive error that required glasses or contact lenses.Who is not suitable for laser eye surgery?
While most people are good candidates, some conditions make laser surgery less appropriate. These include:- Very thin corneas
- Severe dry eye
- Certain eye diseases like keratoconus or advanced glaucoma
- Unstable prescriptions
- Very high prescriptions