Understanding Laser Eye Surgery: Types, Benefits, Eligibility & What to Expect

If you’ve ever wished you could wake up and see clearly without reaching for glasses or contact lenses, laser eye surgery might be the solution you’ve been looking for.

At Visualase, we specialise in safe, effective laser vision correction procedures tailored to your unique needs.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the two main types of laser eye surgery we offer—LASIK and Trans PRK—as well as who is eligible, the benefits and risks involved, and who may not be suitable for the procedure.

Types of Laser Eye Surgery

1. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)

LASIK is the most well-known laser eye surgery. It involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, reshaping the underlying tissue with a laser to correct vision, and then repositioning the flap. The procedure is quick and typically results in minimal discomfort and rapid visual recovery.

2. Trans PRK (Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy)

Trans PRK is a surface-based procedure, meaning no flap is created. Instead, the laser gently removes the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) and reshapes the underlying tissue. This method is ideal for patients with thinner corneas or certain lifestyle factors (e.g., contact sports) and offers long-term safety, albeit with a slightly longer recovery time.

Who Is Eligible for Laser Eye Surgery?

You may be eligible if you:

• Are over 18 years of age
• Have had a stable vision prescription for at least 12 months
• Have a refractive error such as myopia (shortsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism
• Are in good general and ocular health
• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
• A thorough eye assessment with our specialists will confirm your suitability.

Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery

• Improved vision — many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better
• Reduced or eliminated dependence on glasses or contacts
• Quick procedures with fast recovery (especially with LASIK)
• Long-term cost savings compared to ongoing lens or glasses use
• Enhanced quality of life, from sports to travel to daily convenience

Risks & Considerations

Laser eye surgery is highly safe and effective, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks, such as:

• Temporary dry eyes or visual disturbances (e.g., glare, halos)
• Undercorrections or overcorrections (rare and often treatable with enhancements)

Our expert team thoroughly explains all risks and answers your questions during your consultation.

Who Should Not Have Laser Eye Surgery?

Laser vision correction may not be suitable for you if:

• You have a history of severe dry eyes or corneal disease
• You have uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune conditions
• Your prescription is still changing frequently
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have unrealistic expectations about the outcome

Your safety and long-term vision health are our top priorities. We’ll only recommend surgery if it’s right for you.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Your journey to clearer vision begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this free appointment, we will:

• Assess your eye health and vision stability
• Discuss your lifestyle and visual goals
• Recommend the most suitable procedure for your needs
• Answer all your questions transparently

Book your free consultation today and discover whether laser eye surgery is right for you. Your future could be clearer—literally—than you ever imagined.

Your eyes deserve expert care. Trust our experienced team to guide you every step of the way.