Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides LASIK Surgery?
LASIK surgery is performed by an ophthalmologist, a medical doctor who specializes in eye care and eye surgery. Your doctor should do a thorough eye exam first and talk with you about whether you are a good candidate. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
The cornea is the clear covering on the front of the eye. LASIK surgery uses a laser to remove a thin layer of corneal tissue. The change to the shape of the cornea is permanent.
Why a doctor might recommend it
LASIK is done to improve vision and reduce a person's need for glasses or contact lenses. If you are happy wearing contact lenses or glasses, you may not want to have the surgery.
How to prepare
Common preparation steps include the following.
- Tell your doctor about your past and present medical and eye conditions.
- If you wear toric soft lenses or rigid gas permeable lenses, you should stop wearing them for at least 3 weeks before your first evaluation.
What happens during it
You lie on your back in a reclining chair in a room with the laser system. Numbing eye drops are the only anesthetic used. The surgeon makes a flap in the cornea and folds it back. The surgeon plans the amount of tissue to remove ahead of time, based on your glasses or contact lens prescription and the shape of your cornea. You stare at a light to help keep your eye on one spot. Some people notice a smell like burning hair. After the laser finishes, the flap is put back into position.
Recovery
Your eye may burn, itch, or feel like there is something in it, and your vision will probably be hazy or blurry. You may also notice light sensitivity, glare, starbursts, or halos around lights. These symptoms should improve considerably within the first few days after surgery. Do not rub your eye, because rubbing could dislodge the flap. For the first 6 hours, keep your eye closed as much as possible. Do not go back to wearing a contact lens in the operated eye, even if your vision is blurry. It may take up to 3 to 6 months for your vision to settle.
Call your doctor right away, without waiting for your scheduled visit, if you have severe pain or if your symptoms get worse instead of better. New, unusual, or worsening symptoms could signal a problem that may lead to vision loss if it is not treated early enough.
Risks and side effects
Risks of LASIK surgery include the following.
- Some people lose lines of vision on the eye chart that glasses, contact lenses, or more surgery cannot fix.
- Some people develop glare, halos, or double vision that can seriously affect nighttime vision.
- Some problems, such as the flap moving out of place, inflammation, or infection, may need another procedure.
The FDA says there are never any guarantees in medicine.
Who performs it
An ophthalmologist performs LASIK surgery. Do not choose a surgeon based only on cost, and do not settle for the first eye center you look at.
Common questions
How long does LASIK surgery take?
LASIK takes 10 to 15 minutes for each eye. You are awake, but you get medicine to help you relax.
Does LASIK surgery hurt?
LASIK surgery uses eye drops that numb the surface of your eye, but you may feel pressure and some discomfort during part of the procedure.
When can I drive after LASIK surgery?
Do not drive until your vision has improved enough to do so safely. Make sure someone can bring you home after surgery, because the relaxing medicine can impair your ability to drive and your vision may be blurry.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. An ophthalmologist performs the surgery itself. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including ones you buy without a prescription.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - LASIK eye surgery
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration - What should I expect before, during, and after surgery?
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration - What are the risks and how can I find the right doctor for me?
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
