I don't know if the procedure is the same in the UK as it was for me, but I could see right away. It was not painful at all. They made me take a valium tablet beforehand. I don't really think I needed it. It took just a few minutes and my doctor explained things step-by-step so I knew what to expect.

I was mostly concerned that I would blink at just the wrong time and mess something up. But, they put a little device on my eye that held me steady and I didn't feel the urge to blink at all.

I was shocked how quickly it was over and how perfectly I could see.

I could always see well up close, but my distance was very poor. After the procedure (2002) I did not have to wear glasses for driving over about 2 years. But, now I do. Even though I can still see well, things are not as sharp as they used to be. But it is still a vast improvement over my eyesight before surgery.

Edited to add -- Make sure to follow all the after care instructions! My doctor required a checkup the morning after surgery. I had no problems but I heard the doctor and nurses with another patient who had developed an infection. Turns out he did not follow any of the instructions -- drops, wear eye protection, etc. So, follow them precisely to get the maximum benefit.