If you’re considering getting rid of glasses or contacts, laser vision correction procedures like LASIK might be the answer. These procedures are incredibly popular, but it’s understandable to have some concerns. One common worry is whether it will hurt.
The good news is that laser vision correction isn’t painful. Your eyes will be numbed during the procedure, ensuring you don’t feel any sharpness or discomfort. Some temporary sensations afterward are normal, but severe pain shouldn’t be part of the process.
When choosing a provider for laser vision correction, trust and experience matter. Mattioli Vision Professionals in Houston has a highly-skilled team and a proven track record of successful outcomes—in fact, Dr. Mattioli has personally completed over 70,000 laser vision procedures!
If better vision is on your mind, don’t let fear of pain hold you back. Schedule a consultation with us to learn more about your options.
What to Expect During a Laser Vision Correction Procedure
We understand that even the thought of an eye procedure can be nerve-wracking for some patients. Your eye surgeon and the team at Mattioli Vision Professionals want you to feel comfortable and safe throughout your procedure. Feel free to communicate any sensations you experience. We’ll walk you through each step and make sure you know exactly what’s happening.
Before the procedure begins, your surgeon will administer numbing eye drops. These drops are incredibly effective, and you won’t feel any pain during the actual laser reshaping of your cornea.
While there won’t be pain, you might feel some sensations during the procedure. Some patients describe a brief feeling of pressure on the eye. Others might have a temporary awareness that something is touching their eye, even though it’s completely painless. These feelings are usually mild and fleeting.
After Your Procedure
While the procedure itself shouldn’t hurt, most patients experience some mild discomfort in the hours or days following laser vision correction. These sensations are part of the normal healing process and should ease up quickly. You may feel a mild itching or gritty sensation – similar to a dry contact lens.
Following your surgeon’s detailed post-operative instructions is essential for a smooth recovery. Your surgeon will provide you with medicated eye drops to help manage any post-procedure discomfort. It’s essential to use these drops exactly as prescribed, even if your eyes feel relatively good. They play a crucial role in promoting healing and preventing complications.
Laser vision correction is designed to be a safe and well-tolerated procedure. If you experience severe pain, especially with worsening vision, contact your surgeon immediately. While very rare, this could indicate a complication that requires prompt attention.
Types of Laser Vision Correction Available
We offer a range of laser vision correction procedures. Each type of laser vision correction has advantages and considerations. The best procedure for you will depend on your individual eyes, prescription, and overall health.
- LASIK: LASIK is the most widely known procedure. A thin flap is created on the surface of the cornea, then the laser precisely reshapes the underlying corneal tissue. The flap is replaced, acting as a natural bandage. LASIK typically offers a very fast recovery with minimal discomfort.
- SMILE: This newer procedure uses a laser to create a small disc of corneal tissue, which is removed through a tiny incision. SMILE offers fast visual recovery than LASIK
- PRK: During PRK, the outermost layer of the cornea is gently removed, and the laser reshapes the underlying tissue. The surface layer of the cornea heals naturally over a few days. PRK may be recommended for people with thinner corneas or who are highly active.
Safe and Effective Procedures for Clear Vision
Laser vision correction is designed to be a painless procedure, and any temporary discomfort experienced afterward is generally manageable. By choosing an experienced surgeon and following your post-operative instructions carefully, you can minimize discomfort and enjoy the life-changing benefits of clear vision.
Remember, even if you don’t qualify for traditional laser vision correction, there may still be options available to help you achieve freedom from glasses and contacts. Procedures like EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) can be a great solution for certain patients. Don’t hesitate to ask us about all of the possibilities.
If you’re ready to explore a world of clear vision, the team at Mattioli Vision Professionals is here for you. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward ditching your glasses or contacts for good!
