No stitches are needed. About the Procedure First, a thin layer of the cornea, or corneal cap, is lifted up as a device called a microkeratome glides across the cornea. After the tissue has been reshaped, the flap is replaced in its original position. Because of the cornea's extraordinary natural bonding qualities, this procedure does not require stitches. For all refractive surgery procedures the eye is anesthetized before surgery using eye drops.
Most people say they feel a slight amount of pressure when the laser is on, but absolutely no pain.
That discomfort is treated with pain medication when necessary. Total time for the procedure is approximately 15 minutes. Generally less than 1 minute of laser use. Each pulse of laser light gently removes a microscopic layer of corneal tissue until the corrected curvature of the cornea is achieved. Refractive surgery is done on an outpatient basis with most people returning to their normal activities within one to three days.