Yes, during LASIK surgery, patients are typically awake. The procedure involves reshaping the cornea to correct vision issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
Dr. Louis Probst, LASIK Surgeon – Madison, Milwuakee, Westchester (Chicago)
Yes, during LASIK surgery, patients are typically awake. The procedure involves reshaping the cornea to correct vision issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Although the idea of being awake during eye surgery might sound daunting to some, the process is generally quick and designed to be as comfortable as possible.
Before the surgery, anesthetic eye drops are applied to numb the eye area, so you shouldn’t feel any pain. Some patients may also be given a mild sedative to help them relax. During the procedure, you may be aware of light, movement, or some pressure on your eye, but the numbing drops help ensure that discomfort is minimal. The surgeon may ask you to focus on a light while they work, which helps keep your eye fixed in the correct position.
The whole LASIK procedure usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes for both eyes, and because it’s minimally invasive, patients can often return to their normal activities relatively quickly, with many noticing improved vision almost immediately after the surgery.
Why do You Have to Be Awake for LASIK?
Being awake during LASIK surgery is necessary for several reasons, and understanding these can help demystify the process and alleviate concerns.
Precision and Cooperation
Patient Cooperation: One of the key reasons you need to be awake during LASIK is for patient cooperation. The surgeon may need you to follow instructions, such as focusing on a specific light, to ensure the accuracy of the laser application. This cooperation is crucial for aligning the laser precisely with the part of the cornea that needs reshaping.
Eye Tracking: Modern LASIK uses advanced laser technologies equipped with eye-tracking systems. These systems can track the minute movements of your eye to ensure the laser is applied accurately. Being awake and able to fixate on a point helps these tracking systems work effectively.
Anesthetic Eye Drops
Local Anesthesia: Instead of general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep, LASIK only requires local anesthetic eye drops. These drops numb the surface of the eye, making the procedure painless. The quick and minimally invasive nature of LASIK eliminates the need for the deeper sedation that comes with general anesthesia.
Anxiety and Comfort Measures
Managing Anxiety: It’s natural to feel anxious about undergoing a procedure while awake, especially one involving the eyes. Recognizing this, surgeons and LASIK centers often take measures to ensure patients are as comfortable and relaxed as possible.
Mild Sedatives: To help manage anxiety, patients may be offered mild sedatives or anti-anxiety medication before the procedure. These medications don’t put you to sleep but help calm nerves and reduce anxiety, making the experience more comfortable. The goal is to have you awake and alert, yet relaxed.
Benefits of Being Awake
Rapid Recovery: Being awake and avoiding general anesthesia means a quicker recovery time. Patients often notice an improvement in their vision almost immediately after the procedure, and the absence of the side effects associated with general anesthesia allows for a more comfortable post-surgery experience.
Communication: Being awake allows for real-time communication between the surgeon and the patient. If there are any questions or concerns the patient can address anything in real-time.
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