How to get laser eye surgery

Laser eye surgery can help reduce your need for glasses or contact lenses. Many people in Canberra ask us, “How do I get laser eye surgery?”

The process is simple, but it’s also important to take your time and make sure it’s right for you. This guide explains what happens step-by-step, what to expect, and how you can find out if you might be suitable.

What is laser eye surgery?

Laser eye surgery changes the shape of your cornea, the clear front part of your eye, using a gentle laser. This helps light focus properly on the back of your eye, giving you clearer vision.

It can correct common vision problems such as:

• Short-sightedness (myopia)
• Long-sightedness (hyperopia)
• Astigmatism

There are different types of laser procedures, like LASIK, TransPRK, and Smartsight (KLEx). Your eye specialist will help you understand which one may suit your eyes and your lifestyle.

Step 1: Do your research

The first step is learning about the procedure and what’s involved. You don’t need to understand all the medical terms, just the basics.

Laser eye surgery has been performed safely for many years, but it’s not right for everyone. Factors like age, prescription stability, and overall eye health all play a role.

It’s a good idea to:

• Read from trusted medical sources
• Ask questions during consultations
• Avoid relying on stories from friends or social media

At Blink Vision Clinic, we believe in clear, honest information. We focus on helping you understand your options and risks.

Step 2: Check if you’re a good candidate

Not everyone can have laser eye surgery. Before booking, you’ll need an assessment to see if your eyes are suitable. Take our quick self-test to see if you are suitable.

If you’re not suitable, don’t worry, your specialist can suggest other options, such as implantable lenses or different procedures.

Step 3: The comprehensive eye assessment

At your appointment, your eyes will be checked in detail using advanced imaging and scans.

The process includes:

• Checking your prescription (how much correction you need)
• Measuring corneal thickness and shape
• Examining your retina (the back of your eye)
• Discussing your lifestyle and expectations.

This exam is painless and usually takes around 60–90 minutes.

If your eyes are healthy and stable, you may be suitable for surgery. If not, your optometrist or surgeon will explain why and suggest other options.

Step 5: The day of surgery

If you and your surgeon agree to go ahead, you’ll be given detailed instructions before the day.

Laser eye surgery is usually quick, often less than 30 minutes for both eyes. You’ll be awake, but numbing drops make it comfortable.

Here’s what you can expect:

• You’ll arrive at the clinic and get pre-surgery eye drops
• The laser reshapes your cornea based on your unique measurements
• You’ll rest in the recovery area afterward.

Most people notice clearer vision within a day or two, but healing can take several weeks.¹https://crstoday.com/articles/2014-jan/enhancing-the-speed-of-visual-recovery-after-lasik

Your doctor will explain what to do after surgery, including how to use eye drops and when to come back for check-ups.

Step 6: Recovery and aftercare

After surgery, your eyes need time to heal. You may notice:

• Slight blur or glare for a few days
• Mild discomfort or dryness
• Light sensitivity.

Your care team will give you drops to help your eyes heal and feel comfortable.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, or wearing eye makeup for a short period. You should also skip intense exercise or contact sports until your doctor says it’s safe.

Most people return to normal activities in a few days, but everyone heals differently. Your follow-up visits are important to check your progress.

Step 7: Long-term eye care

Even after laser eye surgery, it’s important to keep caring for your eyes. Attend regular eye exams and tell your optometrist about any changes in vision.

Laser eye surgery can reduce your need for glasses, but it doesn’t stop natural aging of the eyes. You may still need reading glasses later in life, this is completely normal.

At Blink Vision Clinic, we focus on your long-term eye health, not just your surgery day.

How Blink Vision Clinic in Canberra can help

At Blink Vision Clinic, our experienced team helps you understand if laser eye surgery could be right for you. We use advanced testing,and clear explanations.

Your safety and understanding come first.

Ready to See if You’re Suitable?

Thinking about laser eye surgery? Take our quick suitability self-test today. It only takes a few minutes and can help you find out if you’re ready for the next step.