How long does LASIK take?

At Chu Vision Institute, we understand that one of the most common questions our patients have about LASIK eye surgery is how long the procedure takes. Whether you’re inquiring for yourself or a loved one, knowing the timeline can help you feel more prepared and at ease. In this article, we will break down each step of the LASIK process at Chu Vision to give you a clear understanding of what to expect. By the end, you’ll see why so many choose Chu Vision for their vision correction needs. If you’re considering LASIK, schedule a consultation today to begin your journey toward clearer vision without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.

How long does LASIK really take?

The LASIK procedure takes less than 10 minutes per eye, with the actual laser surgery correction lasting only 20-120 seconds. This advanced refractive surgery uses state-of-the-art technology to improve vision and is completed in less than 30 minutes, sometimes as quickly as 15 minutes. Before the procedure, you’ll check in and complete any necessary paperwork, followed by waiting in a designated area where your last-minute questions are answered, vitals are taken, and the nurses will administer optional medication to ease your nerves. When it’s time for surgery, you will be escorted to the laser suite where Dr. Chu and his laser team will be waiting for you.

After lying back on the laser bed, your Chu Vision laser team will apply numbing eye drops and place an eyelid separator so you don’t need to worry about blinking. Two lasers are used during LASIK; the first laser will create a flap which is gently folded back to expose the layer of the cornea to be treated. This takes about 17-18 seconds. Then the second laser reshapes the exposed cornea and corrects your vision. This can take 15-45 seconds, depending on your prescription. Then the surgeon carefully lays the flap back in place. This process is done one eye at a time, while the other eye is covered. At Chu Vision, our expert team is dedicated to providing a smooth and efficient LASIK experience, ensuring you achieve the best possible vision results.

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Will I be at the eye center all day
on the day of my LASIK procedure?

On the day of your LASIK procedure at Chu Vision, you should plan to be at the eye center for 1.5-2 hours. This time frame includes check-in, paperwork, surgical preparation, the procedure itself, and a short recovery period to ensure your comfort and begin the healing process. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your visit:

Arrival: The team will provide you with a precise arrival time so you can complete any remaining paperwork and address any last-minute questions.
Preparation: The nurse will prepare you for surgery, including providing a surgical cap, taking vitals, and applying eye drops.
Surgery: The LASIK procedure involves creating a flap in the outermost layer of the cornea using a femtosecond laser, which takes approximately 18 seconds per eye. The excimer laser then reshapes the cornea to correct your vision, a process that takes only a few seconds. The entire laser vision correction surgery usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Post-Surgery: After the procedure, Dr. Chu will take a look at your eyes to ensure everything looks great! Then you are free to go home and take a nap to rest your eyes.

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled for the day after surgery to check on your healing progress. Regular check-ups will continue for the next few weeks to months to ensure your eyes are healing properly. At Chu Vision, we are committed to your comfort and the success of your LASIK procedure.

Clear Vision in No Time

At Chu Vision, we are dedicated to providing you with a fast and efficient LASIK experience, ensuring you spend minimal time at our office while achieving optimal results. Our team is here to guide you through every step, from preparation to post-surgery care. Ready to improve your vision? Schedule a consultation with Chu Vision today and take the first step toward a clearer, brighter future. Your journey to better vision starts here.

How Long Does LASIK Take? Common Questions Answered

How long does the consultation for LASIK take?

The initial consultation at Chu Vision typically takes about 1-2 hours. This includes a comprehensive eye exam where our ophthalmology experts will assess your visual acuity, check for conditions like myopia, farsightedness, and astigmatism, and determine if LASIK, SMILE, or another vision correction option is best for you.

How long before I can resume normal activities after LASIK?

Most patients at Chu Vision can resume normal activities, including returning to work, within a day or two after LASIK. However, it is recommended to avoid strenuous activities, swimming, contact sports, and eye makeup for at least a week to allow your eyes to heal properly.

How long does it take for vision to stabilize after LASIK?

Vision typically begins to stabilize within a few days to weeks after LASIK. During this period, Chu Vision will monitor your visual perception, surface dryness, healing of the LASIK flap, and ensure there is no glare or other issues affecting your retina. Regular follow-up visits help track your progress and are an essential part of the journey.

How long does the pre-surgery evaluation take on the day of LASIK?

The pre-surgery evaluation on the day of your LASIK procedure at Chu Vision usually takes about 30-45 minutes. This includes final checks, applying numbing drops, and ensuring you are comfortable and ready for surgery.

How long does it take to see clearly after LASIK surgery?

Many patients at Chu Vision notice an improvement in their vision immediately after the procedure, with significant improvements within the first 24 hours. Most people can see well enough to drive the very next day! Full clarity and best vision results are typically seen within a few weeks to months. Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Ralph Chu is a fellowship-trained corneal specialist and a nationally recognized leader in refractive and cataract procedures. His specialty areas include cataract, LASIK, cornea, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries for patients in the Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Twin Cities areas.