Expect to be at Canberra Eye Laser for approximately 2 hours. You will be in the treatment room for about 20-30 minutes, but the crucial laser time is only seconds for each eye. Your family is welcome to watch the procedure from our viewing area if you wish and we can send you a recording of your procedure upon request.
The procedure is not painful and no needles are used. Local anaesthetic eye drops are used to numb your eyes once you are in the procedure room. Some slight sensation to touch on your eyelids and forehead may be felt. You will notice a mild pressure sensation on your eye during the procedure. You don't need to worry about blinking and the doctor will talk you through the whole process.
Immediately after the procedure your vision will still be blurry. You will be able to see to get around but reading and watching TV will be difficult. We advise you to rest and close your eyes as much as possible for the first few hours.
Your vision will recover quickly after surgery. Most people wake the next day and are surprised with how well they can see. It is normal for minor fluctuations in vision to occur over the following days and weeks as healing continues.
Your return to work timeline depends on the procedure you have. We will advise you at the time of booking what to expect so you can make arrangements for work and family. In general, we suggest you take at least 1-2 days off work to allow for recovery time and to adjust to your new vision.
Vision recovers quickly for the majority of patients, and often vision is legal for driving the next day. However, you should not drive until you have been given clearance. Some adjustment to your new vision and depth perception needs to be allowed for.
Light activities such as walking, stationary bike or treadmill are allowed as soon as you are feeling confident with your new vision. We advise that you wait for 2 weeks after treatment before recommencing swimming or energetic sporting activities especially contact sports. Take care to wear sunglasses outside.
Our doctors established the first laser centre in Canberra in 1997. The whole team has many years of experience in refractive laser surgery. We place high importance on keeping our skills and equipment up to date.
Canberra Eye Laser was the first clinic to perform SMILE in Australia, and is now the longest-running SMILE clinic in the country.
Our price for surgery includes all consultations, diagnostics tests, re-treatments (if necessary) and reviews up to 12 months. There are no hidden extras and everyone receives personalised "platinum care". We do offer a payment plan and do not engage any third party credit providers.
Medicare do not cover refractive laser costs, however, some private health funds do offer varying levels of rebate, including BUPA and Defence Health.
The cost of your specific procedure will be discussed at the initial consultation once treatment parameters are known.
We are here to answer all your queries, there are no silly questions!