Written by
2025.02.20
Hello, this is Busan SKY Eye Clinic, bringing you eye health information. Even if you decide to undergo LASIK or LASEK to get rid of uncomfortable glasses or contact lenses, it is natural to have concerns since eye surgery is a once-in-a-lifetime decision. Today, we want to address some of the small but common concerns that Modoodoc members have about vision correction surgery. “What if the anesthesia wears off during LASIK surgery?” “What if I accidentally close my eyes during LASIK or LASEK surgery?” We will provide answers to these questions to help ease your concerns.
During LASIK and LASEK surgery, a speculum (eyelid holder) is used to keep the eyelids open, preventing the patient from closing their eyes. Even if you try to blink, your eyes will remain open, and since anesthetic eye drops are applied before the procedure, there is little to no discomfort from the speculum. Additionally, if the Amaris Red laser system is used, its eye-tracking technology detects even the slightest eye movement in real time. This ensures that the laser automatically adjusts to maintain precision, preventing any potential issues. So, there’s no need to worry!
During LASIK and LASEK surgery, both eyes are not operated on simultaneously—the procedure is performed one eye at a time. If you forcefully shut the non-operating eye, the facial muscles and reflexes connected to both eyes may make it difficult to keep the operating eye open. For a smoother and more comfortable surgery, it is best to stay relaxed and keep both eyes open throughout the procedure.
You may worry that keeping your eyes open during surgery will cause discomfort from dryness, making it difficult to endure. However, during LASIK and LASEK surgery, sterile saline solution is periodically applied to the eyes to prevent dryness. Additionally, since your eyes will be numbed with anesthetic drops, you will not feel significant discomfort or stinging from dryness. There’s no need to worry!
Before the surgery, anesthetic eye drops are applied, just like regular eye drops. The effects take hold immediately. Since LASIK and LASEK surgeries typically take only 10–15 minutes, the anesthesia does not wear off during the procedure. If the anesthetic effect weakens slightly, additional numbing drops can be applied at any time. If you feel any discomfort or a foreign body sensation during surgery, simply inform the medical staff. We hope this clears up any concerns about LASIK and LASEK anesthesia. Thank you!
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