Do I Need to Be Put to Sleep for Lasik Surgery?

Find out if you need anesthesia for Lasik surgery and how you can make the process easier and less intimidating.

Do I Need to Be Put to Sleep for Lasik Surgery?

When it comes to more invasive or major surgeries, anesthesia is often used to put the patient to sleep. Anesthesia is a safe way to prevent feeling pain during the procedure. However, general anesthesia requires the help of an anesthesiologist, a doctor who specializes in anesthesia. Fortunately, laser vision correction procedures do not require general anesthesia.

In fact, it is important for the patient to be awake and able to cooperate in order to get the best results. Oral Valium and highly effective anesthetic eye drops can make this process easier and less intimidating. Some people may assume that they will be put to sleep since they are undergoing a surgical procedure. It is understandable to think that you will need to be asleep in order for the surgery to be performed.