LASIK reshapes the cornea under a thin flap to correct short-sight, long-sight and astigmatism, correcting your focusing so you rely less on glasses or contact lenses.
What is LASIK?
LASIK (laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis) creates a thin hinged flap in the cornea, then uses an excimer laser to reshape the tissue beneath before the flap is repositioned. It corrects short-sight (myopia), long-sight (hyperopia) and astigmatism, and is one of the most established laser vision-correction procedures.
Who is LASIK suitable for?
LASIK suits many adults aged 18 and over with a stable prescription and healthy, sufficiently thick corneas. It may be less suitable for very high prescriptions, thin corneas, significant dry eye or certain corneal conditions, where SMILE or a surface procedure may be recommended after a full assessment.
Recovery after LASIK
Most people notice clearer vision within a day, with mild dryness or light sensitivity for a few days. Many return to work within one to two days, avoiding swimming and eye make-up for a couple of weeks.
LASIK cost
LASIK usually costs £1,295–£2,500 per eye in the UK, including your assessment, the treatment and follow-up appointments, with 0% finance widely available. See our LASIK cost guide for a full breakdown.
Not sure whether LASIK or a lens-based option is right for you?
Register your interestThe lens-based alternative if you are over 45
Laser reshapes the cornea and does not stop age-related focusing loss (presbyopia) or future cataracts. If you are over 45, refractive lens exchange replaces the natural lens with a multifocal implant — correcting distance, intermediate and near vision and preventing future cataracts. It is consultant-led at our South England clinics from £4,300 per eye. Compare lens replacement (RLE).