If you’ve ever imagined life without glasses or contact lenses, LASIK might be the vision correction solution you’ve been looking for. As one of the most commonly performed eye surgeries in the world, LASIK is also increasingly popular in the Philippines. But before booking your appointment, it’s important to know what the entire process looks like—from your first consultation to post-op recovery.
Before the Procedure: Consultation and Preparation
The journey begins with a comprehensive eye exam. Your ophthalmologist will assess your eye health, check your vision prescription, and run tests to determine if you’re a good candidate for LASIK. These may include:
- Corneal thickness measurement
- Pupil size evaluation
- Eye pressure testing
- Tear film assessment
This is important because not all people are qualified. Persons with extremely thin corneas, persistent dry eye, or unstable eyesight might be informed to look for alternatives to laser eye surgery in the Philippines.
If you’re approved for the surgery, your physician will guide you through prep instructions. You’ll be instructed not to wear contact lenses days or weeks ahead of time (depending on the type) so that your cornea will not be distorted. You’ll also be instructed not to put lotion, makeup, or perfume on the day of surgery.
During the Procedure: What Happens in the Operating Room
The real LASIK surgery in the Philippines is actually fast and almost painless. This is what happens:
- You will recline on a chair under the laser device.
- Numbing eye drops are put into your eyes.
- A small device keeps your eyelids open.
- A femtosecond laser makes a thin flap in your cornea, which is then gently lifted.
- Another laser smoothes out the cornea according to your prescription.
- The flap is laid back in place—no stitches required.
The procedure will take approximately 15 minutes per eye. Most patients experience only minor pressure during the procedure.
After the Procedure: Recovery and Results
After the surgery is finished, you’ll rest for a short time before being taken home. Be sure to have someone bring you home. You might experience some mild irritation, watery eyes, or sensitivity to light for a few hours. Eye drops will be given to ensure there’s no infection and to help with dryness.
Your physician will provide follow-up appointments to check on your healing process. Vision improvements are generally noticeable within 24 to 48 hours.
Over the next few days, stay away from straining, swimming, and rubbing your eyes. Complete recovery can take several weeks, when your vision will waver slightly.
LASIK in the Philippines Is More Accessible Than Ever
Clinics performing LASIK in the Philippines now have state-of-the-art technology and skilled surgeons at hand, which makes it safer and more accessible. If you’re ready to say goodbye to glasses, knowing the entire process can encourage you to make that initial step with assurance.