3 things you might not know about Laser Eye Surgery but should

Had enough of costly trips to the Opticians, glasses, contacts and prescriptions? It might be time to think about something a little more permanent - how about Laser Eye Surgery? The popular surgery has been carried out over 40,000 times by Optilase, Ireland’s No.1 Clinic over the past few years.

So without getting all technical, just what is the procedure in simple terms? Put simply, Laser Eye Surgery is a way of permanently correcting your vision. The procedure uses a special type of laser to gently reshape the surface of the eye in order to correct certain vision problems such as, nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.

Over 30 million people worldwide have chosen to undergo this quick, painless and yet life-changing procedure, to achieve 20/20 vision. Laser eye surgery gives you the opportunity to live a life free from the burden and cost of having to wear glasses and contact lenses.

If you’ve started to give it some consideration, now’s a good time to learn a little bit more about what it can offer you. Let’s start with how it might change your life. Everyone’s reasons for going ahead with the surgery will be different, but just what are the facts you should know before going any further? We caught up with Ireland’s No.1 Laser Eye Surgery providers, Optilase to find out more. Let’s start with 3 things you might not know about Laser Eye Surgery but should.

Your about to be surprised by your new sight
Are you ready to see things from a different perspective? It might sound like an obvious one, but if you’ve always had issues with your sight, the prospect of improving our sight may seem very exciting, and it is! At the top of the list for Optilase’s Laser Eye Surgery patients was the notion that they could say goodbye to the hassle and cost of glasses and contact lenses. Who wouldn’t jump at the chance to live a life free from the inconvenience and cost of having to wear glasses and contact lenses, it’s a no brainer! Many Optilase patients who finally undergo the surgery really can’t believe their luck, when post surgery, 20/15 or 20/20 vision becomes their norm. Is it time to find out a little bit more?

It’s very affordable, whatever your finances look like right now
So you’ve thought a little bit more about it - now is the time to consider if it can be an option for you right now. The answer is yes. As well as being a very affordable procedure the team at Optilase offer 0% Interest Free Finance, so you’ve got more than one option if you're serious about getting the life changing procedure.

Laser Eye Surgery has become a well thought of and popular surgery over the last number of years, due mainly to the life changing results. And because of this, as well as advances in technology, it has definitely become more and more affordable, even in premium Eye Clinics like Optilase.

So what is the pricing like in Optilase? Well many patients at the Clinic opt for the interest free finance plans, and as well as this you can also avail of 20% tax relief on the cost of the treatment. For all the best prices and offers in Ireland’s most respected Eye Clinic, visit the Optilase website.

Pain free and quick
Many people approaching the procedure are a little anxious about the surgery, the team at Optilase are keen to stress that the procedure is very much pain free, and only takes a short amount of time to complete, Phillip McGlade, CEO with Ireland’s No.1 Eye Clinic provider was quick to put our minds at ease, ‘We understand how the word surgery might send a shiver up your spine, but the good news is that in the case of Laser Eye Surgery it doesn't have to.

Laser Eye Surgery isn’t for everyone, in fact not everybody is a candidate for it; your suitability depends on what your vision problem is. But if you are a suitable patient then you should be confident that the laser vision correction process itself is painless. Your eye is numbed using anaesthetic drops and you are offered diazepam to reduce anxiety and relax muscle tension. Depending on your treatment type, there can be some discomfort in the days after your treatment but this is generally temporary.’

In addition to that, the surgery is short too - taking around 7 minutes per eye. You will need to be in the Clinic a little longer though - with preparation, treatment and aftercare, you will most likely be in the clinic for up to 2 hours on the day of your procedure. Taking it all into consideration, it’s a very short time to be in situ for any surgical procedure.

If you are in any doubt about whether or not you are suitable for the surgery, then relax and know that help is only an appointment away. Optilase, who have carried out the surgery over thousands of times in Ireland, offer a free consultation with one of their Optometrists for all potential patients.

Time to make your mind up
So now that you’ve found out a bit more on what you can expect if you go ahead with the surgery, is it time to find out whether or not it’s the treatment for you?

Unfortunately Laser Eye Surgery might not be an option for everyone. It is generally carried out on people with short or long-sight, over the age of 18, and who have had a stable prescription for at least two years. It is not however recommended for correcting reading prescriptions, also known as presbyopia, as these prescriptions change as you get older.
Some high prescriptions are also not suitable for laser surgery, although they may be corrected via a method of non-laser eye surgery, known as clear lens exchange. The best way to determine if you are a suitable candidate or not is to call Optilase and avail of their free consultation, there you will meet with one of their Optometrists who will examine your sight and run through the best options for your sight, whether that be Laser Eye Surgery or another treatment.

In safe hands
If you’ve been worried about possible complications during surgery or about the safety of the procedure then it’s time to put your mind at ease. In Optilase, your safety is the team’s No. 1 priority. Using the most advanced and safest laser technology and all of Optilase’s Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeons, Laser Optometrists, Laser Technicians and surgery nurses are highly experienced and fully accredited.

Optilase is the only Eye Clinic in Ireland to offer every patient a Lifetime Care Guarantee, and in truth this is something that money can’t buy. Think of it as the great comfort blanket that it is as the Optilase Lifetime Care Guarantee will provide you with a thorough aftercare programme for the 12 months following your Laser Eye Surgery procedure. Depending on how your sight has progressed, this may be an average of four post-operative appointments throughout the year. Many patients agree that the Lifetime Care Guarantee really eases any apprehensions they might have about Laser Eye Surgery, what better way to start your journey than to know that you have a medical team behind you that will support you before and after, priceless.

After the first year of check-ups, you’ll be discharged from our aftercare programme, but don’t be a stranger – Optilase’s doors are always open if you’re ever unsure of anything or have any questions regarding your treatment. And remember, over 99% of Optilase’s patients recommend them, and happy customers are the path to great results for you.

Call Optilase Private Eye Clinic today
As Ireland’s leading Laser Eye Clinic, Optilase offers the very highest level of patient care including a lifetime care guarantee, the safest and most precise technology, at the most affordable prices.

As are a proud, family-owned Irish business, team Optilase are delighted to have some of the world’s leading Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeons, Laser Optometrists and Medical Staff working on the team, all of whom are focused on providing the very best laser eye treatment available, using the latest and most sophisticated technology.

Optilase is Ireland’s largest Eye Clinic with Clinics all over the Island of Ireland, including four in Northern Ireland.

For more information on Laser Eye Surgery, and on starting your path to the best vision you’ve ever had, call Optilase to book your free consultation on +353 1 223 8821 now, and we promise - you’ll soon see the difference!

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At your consultation we will answer all your questions, discuss finance options, and assess whether you are a suitable candidate for one of our life-changing, treatments. Consultations with our expert Optometrists are free and take approximately 1 hour at one of our nationwide clinics.
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Patient Reviews

amnnau
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amnnau
April 3, 2026

Got my PRK surgery with optilase couldnt be happier! I was cared for in each step even post surgery, give me a call or message if you need referral

Amy Phelan
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Amy Phelan
April 2, 2026

Had such an amazing experience with Optilase in Cork. Such a brilliant team, they all made me feel so relaxed and explained everything so well. They reassured me so much on the day of my surgery, and I never felt rushed with any questions. I would highly recommend Optilase to anyone even considering laser eye surgery. I am the most nervous and skeptical person and it’s truly the best thing I ever did, there is honestly nothing to be worried about!! I had zero pain whatsoever and my vision was clear by that evening and 100% perfect the next morning, it’s truly amazing! Wish I got it done years ago. I have so much freedom now without contact lenses or glasses, it’s so hard to believe my vision is fixed!!

Helen Sanfey
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Helen Sanfey
April 2, 2026

My experience has been amazing. Everything was super professional and I was handled with complete care. My vision is perfect now and has changed everything for me.

Chloe Kearney
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Chloe Kearney
March 5, 2026

Had a consultation done today couldn’t fault the team at optilase the were very informative answer all the questions I had very quick and professional would definitely recommend

Barry Neville
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Barry Neville
March 3, 2026

Very professional, and very customer focused

Timmy Kelleher
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Timmy Kelleher
February 18, 2026

I got the refractive lens surgery in December and from my first appointment to the last post op appointment I was looked after with great care, and I would recommend this company to anyone

Sinéad Elizabeth Delaney
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Sinéad Elizabeth Delaney
February 5, 2026

My glasses has always made me feel self conscious to the point of not wearing them. I had my free consultation for eligibility with Rachel who was helpful and really put me at ease about the entire procedure. Elizabeth in reception was friendly and welcoming throughout each visit helping me set up all my upcoming appointments and fit me in for my surgery to meet my schedule. The day of surgery I was brought upstairs for re-scans. Paul did these and he was extremely kind. He answered all my questions making me feel at ease. After I was then called by Fiona who was assisting Dr. Tom in my surgery. I met Dr. Tom who ran over the procedure and answered questions I had. Fiona then went through the things to be mindful of after surgery showing me the three different eye drops to be taken and then helped me prep for surgery. The surgery itself was so quick. I first laid down on the chair and they dosed my eyes in eye drops which were to stop infections and aesthetic to keep my eyes open. Dr. Tom and the team began. It was such a quick painless procedure I couldn’t believe it was finished so quick. Already getting up I felt I could see better although a little fuzzy. Fiona guided me to the dark area of the reception while I waited to go home. The girls in reception had already called my dad and he was on the way. Sitting there I could already read the signs on the wall (I couldn’t when I had come in). Paul and Fiona came and sat with me for a second in reception asking me how I was and how I got on which was so nice of them. My dad collected me and I put my sunglasses on. It was a sunny day and I’m going to be honest the car ride home for me was the hardest part. Fiona told me my eyes would become heavy when the eye drops wore off. I felt the light from the sun in the car ride home was harsh on my eyes and my eyes stung. This was instantly relieved when I got home and went to my room which was in complete darkness. The first two hours my eyes were a little sore and stingy. Then this all faded very quick. No stinging. No pain. Nothing. All great. My eyes improving more and more as the day went on. I was nervous about the eye drops but set them up on my table with an alarm and it’s so easy to just pop them in. My eyes were quite red with two red dots on each side. I rested up for the evening and I wore my dark glasses they provided for a lot of the evening to really rest my eyes and by that night my vision was very sharp it was amazing. I slept very well with my eye mask and not once did I have to take painkillers. My follow up appointment was with Michaela who was lovely and stated I have 20/20 vision and my eyes look good. She also said the redness is 100% normal and is just bruising of the eye from the suction. My experience has been amazing. I honestly can’t thank the staff enough. Each and every one of them were so nice and welcoming and the liking to answer all my questions. If you have any doubts at all; I wouldn’t. Get it done if you can. I wish I got it done sooner. Any questions or using a refer a friend find me on fb or instagram with the name above 😊

Laurence Lee
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Laurence Lee
November 25, 2025

It was the best decision I ever made,I can see better now than I ever did.

Teddy Sheehan
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Teddy Sheehan
November 20, 2025

Finished LASIK eye surgery yesterday. Unbelievable how crystal clear next day was. Bit nervous on day, but staff put me right at ease. Very professional, Clean, fast. Definitely should got it done years ago..

Lazer
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Lazer
November 19, 2025

I recently had my LASIK eye surgery done at Optilase and I couldn’t be happier with the entire experience. From the moment I walked in, the team made me feel completely at ease. A special mention goes to Optometrist Dan, who was incredibly professional, patient, and reassuring throughout the whole process. Dan explained every step clearly, answered all my questions, and made sure I felt confident before and after the procedure. The surgery itself was quick and comfortable, and my vision improvement has been amazing. I highly recommend Optilase and especially Dan for anyone considering LASIK. Excellent service, fantastic results, and a team you can truly trust.

manon Clairbaux
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manon Clairbaux
November 18, 2025

Nice and helpful team !

Endija Ozolina
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Endija Ozolina
November 13, 2025

From the day 1 I felt I was important client ! Carrickmines clinic is sooo clean & neat in every way On the day of the surgery I felt even more cared for and soothed while being a VERY anxious customer the staff & surgeon made me calm and also advised on a better future treatment then initially was thought , which I though was wonderful and showed they care Small downside 🫤 can’t reach directly clinic but when call the number given it’s going to main customer care ( which is also very helpful) But the reason for that is that they work the load between the clinics , which is understandable Overall , even if you’re the most scared person to do this - please TRUST you feel no pain and the gain is fare more worth, then few pre-stressful moments And the actual procedure is honestly less then 10 min

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