And so the day of the procedure came. Obviously, any procedure that involves the eyes should make anyone a bit nervous, excited, and curious about the technology. The numbing drops are in and within minutes the doctor is using a marker to draw small dots on the eye (as a point of reference).

Then comes the laser. As an assistant standing to the side announces the steps, the doctor uses a small device to hold the eye open and in position. As you watch a small light flashing overhead, it suddenly disappears as a flap is cut in the eye. Seconds later vision reappears and right on queue with the assistants remark a clicking sound is heard as another light flashes overhead; the laser performing its task. Finally, a cool sensation washes over the eye and the procedure is complete.

Repeat the same for the other eye and in less than five minutes all is done and your headed out of the operating room. By description and time, this is the simplest part of the entire process.

Following the procedure comes a long nap, likely until the next morning. Sleep may not be quite so easy due to the goggles one must wear to prevent involuntarily rubbing the eyes while sleeping (for the duration of one week no less, but again these are our eyes so we'll do exactly as instructed). Medicated drops three times daily for the first week and artificial tears at least four times daily for four weeks and that's it. Initially there may be some periodic dryness that's easily resolved with the artificial tears any needed number of times daily.

I wouldn't say that any part of the procedure was difficult or painful. Sleeping wearing goggles is only a slight hassle and the drops are easy to remember (your eyes will typically remind you). Still it's the coolest thing that there's no pain involved.