No — LASIK is performed while you are awake. Anaesthetic eye drops are used to completely numb the eye so you feel no pain, but you remain conscious throughout the 15-minute procedure and are asked to focus on a light.
Key Facts
- LASIK uses topical anaesthetic drops — not general anaesthesia
- The procedure takes 15 minutes total (about 30 seconds laser per eye)
- You remain awake and must look at a fixation light during the laser
- Mild sedative tablet may be offered for anxiety — not mandatory
- Numbing drops mean you feel pressure but zero pain during LASIK
Guidelines & Tips
- Inform your surgeon if you are very anxious — a mild sedative can be provided
- Practise focusing on a single point to prepare for the procedure
- The laser automatically tracks your eye movement (eye tracking technology)
- You may feel slight pressure when the flap is created — this lasts seconds
- You will hear a clicking sound from the laser — this is normal
- Most patients are surprised by how quick and painless LASIK is
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