By Mr Aris Konstantopoulos, Consultant Ophthalmologist & Corneal Specialist
When considering laser eye surgery, it’s natural to have questions. It is typical for patients to have had unanswered questions for many years prior to seeking a face to face assessment to find out more. As a Consultant Ophthalmologist and Corneal Specialist, I’ve answered hundreds, often from patients who are keen to find out more but cautious in taking the first step.
If you’re exploring your options or preparing for your consultation, here are some of the most frequently asked questions I receive in the clinic, along with the honest answers I give.
1. Is Laser Eye Surgery Safe?
Yes, laser eye surgery is extremely safe when performed by an experienced surgeon using modern technology. Millions of procedures are performed globally each year with high satisfaction and low complication rates. The risk of a serious complication, such as an infection or ectasia, is less than one in several thousand procedures when performed responsibly by an experienced surgeon in a modern clinic with high standards. More common but less serious side effects, such as dry eye sensation, fluctuation in vision and sensitivity to light, tend to settle over a few weeks with the support of drops. At ClarisVision, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and laser platforms to ensure precise, tailored treatment.
2. Does It Hurt?
Not at all. Most patients are surprised by how quick and painless the procedure is. Numbing drops are used, so you may feel a pressure sensation but no pain. After the procedure, you may experience mild gritty or watery eyes and photosensitivity but this usually resolves within a few hours to a couple of days. Surface based treatments, for example advanced surface ablation (ASA) or LASEK, have more prolonged recovery and discomfort than LASIK and ReLEx SMILE though this can be managed well with appropriate pain relief tablets and drops.
3. How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The actual laser treatment typically takes just a few minutes per eye. The entire time you spend in the operating laser suite is usually under 30 minutes. We also allow time for preparation and post-op checks before you go home.
4. What Types of Laser Eye Surgery Do You Offer?
We offer a range of procedures, including:
- LASIK: Fast recovery, flap-based surgery suitable for many patients with short-sightedness, long-sightedness, or astigmatism.
- SMILE: Minimally invasive, flapless procedure with excellent outcomes, especially for patients who have mild dry eye, a high correction or prefer not to have ‘a flap’.
- PRESBYOND: Ideal for patients over 40 with reading vision difficulties; PRESBYOND LASIK is a sophisticated evolution of LASIK that combines both distance and near vision correction.
- LASEK/ASA: Surface ablation laser treatment suited for thinner corneas, abnormally shaped corneas or those not suitable for LASIK or SMILE.
At your consultation we will discuss the suitable options with you and after careful consideration of your preferences, lifestyle goals and eye characteristics recommend a treatment.
5. Am I a Suitable Candidate?
Most people between the ages of 18 and 60 with a stable prescription and healthy eyes are usually suitable. During your consultation, we’ll perform a detailed eye examination with appropriate scans and review your prescription, corneal health, and visual needs to determine your suitability.
Even if you are not ready yet for the big decision, you can always attend a free no-obligation screening visit to find out if you are suitable for laser surgery or simply have your questions answered.
6. How Soon Will I See Clearly?
LASIK and SMILE patients notice significantly clear vision within 24 hours, most usually to driving level standards. Although you tend to see clearly soon after the procedure, your vision will continue to stabilise and improve over the first few weeks to months. With surface procedures like LASEK/ASA, vision tends to improve more gradually over several days, reaching driving levels within 2 weeks.
7. Will I Still Need Glasses After Surgery?
The vast majority of patients achieve independence from glasses and contact lenses. If you are in your 40s or beyond, with PRESBYOND LASIK you can be spectacle-free for the majority of your daily activities but you may feel more comfortable with glasses in specific situations such as prolonged night driving or reading of fine book print.
8. How Long Do the Results Last?
The results of laser eye surgery are long-lasting, if not permanent. Once the cornea is reshaped by the laser ablation, it typically remains stable. However, your eyes will continue to age naturally, so reading glasses will still be needed later in your 40s or beyond; a laser enhancement procedure can be considered at this stage to mitigate the need for reading glasses. If you are in your 40s when considering your first laser surgery, you can opt for PRESBYOND LASIK that will improve both distance and near vision.
9. How Much Does It Cost?
Our prices are transparent and reflect consultant-led care, high-tech diagnostics, and advanced laser platforms. While pricing varies slightly depending on the procedure, we offer flexible payment plans and 0% financing options through the Nuffield Health Wessex Hospital to make treatment accessible. Prices typically range from £4000 to £5000 for both eyes, depending on treatment; up to date information can be found on our pricing page.
10. What’s the First Step?
The first step is a free, no-obligation suitability screening. We’ll assess whether laser eye surgery is right for you and explain all your options clearly.
You can book online or call us on 02381 812281.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
At ClarisVision, our procedures are personally carried out by myself. I am a consultant ophthalmologist who specialises in laser eye surgery, lens replacement surgery and corneal surgery. We prioritise precision, safety, and personal care at every step.
When choosing a clinic, we recommend checking the surgeon’s credentials, including:
- Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth)
- Inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register for Ophthalmology
- Subspecialty Fellowship level training in corneal and/or refractive surgery
- Proven track record in performing a range of vision correction procedures
Why Choose ClarisVision?
When it comes to your eyes, you want care that’s not only expert, but personal.
At ClarisVision, we provide:
- 👁️ Care led by Consultant Ophthalmologist and Corneal Specialist, Mr. Aris Konstantopoulos
- 🧬 Advanced diagnostics and laser technology for superior precision
- 🫶 A personalised approach to your vision correction
- 🌍 A warm, patient-first experience trusted by hundreds in the UK
We’re more than a clinic – we’re your partner in clear vision for life.
Real Stories, Real Impact
“Aris immediately puts your mind at rest with his calm approach to the situation and will answer any questions you might have in a very professional way”
— Jennifer, 36, Interior Designer
“Mr Konstantopoulos was professional, kind, patient and highly skilled. I have recommended many people to him which says it all.”
— Alex, 58, Retired Professor
Read more about what our patients had to say about their experience.
A Thought to Leave You With
Laser eye surgery is a life-changing decision. It should be made with clarity, care, and full understanding. If you still have questions, I’d be happy to answer them in person.
At ClarisVision, we focus on personalised treatment, ethical guidance, and results that enhance your quality of life.