Laser eye surgery is performed though different technologies and procedures to correct the refractive errors of the eye and both Lasik and PRK do not hurt the eyes both during the procedure or right after the surgery, usually. It is because the surgeon applies numbing eye drops to relax the eyes and alleviate any possible pain to the eye, while the procedure was performed. However, discomfort is possible, because of dryness of the eyes.
During the Procedure
During the procedure the eyes are less hurt because of the laser beam and a very small incision made. However, to relieve the patient from the pain, medication may be prescribed by the surgeon, even before the procedure starts. And only topical anaesthetic drops are required and there are hardly any stitches required post the surgery. So, there is no pain experienced and there can be very small pressure over the eyes. The actual treatment using laser needs only 30 to 40 seconds, during which the laser light is focused over the eyes and pressure is felt during this period. And this pressure and its effect are short lived.
After the Procedure
After the process of reshaping the cornea, the flap would be replaced back in its place and so it serves the purpose of bandage naturally and helps the process of healing. The experiences after different laser surgeries are different. For instance, when PRK procedure is considered, discomfort is experienced during very small period and stops right after closing the epithelium. When LASEK procedure is considered, the period of recovery and so pain also are shorter. Both PRK and LASEK procedures are less painful compared to the other procedure, though both the pains are mild. Any of the laser procedure takes very less time, starting from 10 minutes to maximum 30 minutes.
After a few hours of the Lasik surgery, mild itching sensation and discomfort are possible temporarily inside the eyes. Apart from that, some haziness or blurry vision can also be experienced right after the surgery. So, to get relieve from these mild pain and discomfort, surgeons prescribe some eye drops. In case the eyes are hurt badly or any severe pain is experienced, then the patient has to contact the doctor immediately and address the issue for instant treatment.
Apart from mild pain, dry eye condition is the most commonly experienced symptom after the surgery, though it is temporary and it may hurt the eyes. And this condition is also treatable and relieved from the pain by applying eye drops prescribed by the surgeon. These drops must be applied consistently, as specified by the surgeon for consistent lubrication over the surface of the eyes.