I had my treatment carried out by Lorrimer Esselaar at Optical Express in Newcastle on 4th October 2008. My prescription was (R) -1.75 with an astigmatism of -0.75 and (L) -2.25. The procedure was very quick and pain free. I was told I may have grittiness after the anaesthetic wore off but all I suffered was a sensation similar to peeling very strong onions for about an hour. Next morning I could see as clear as anything and haven't suffered from any pain or irritation at all. When I went for my check up the following day I was told I had better than 20/20 vision. I highly recommend Optical Express. I went to Optimax first but didn't care for their customer service. They didn't explain things and the surgeon I saw was rather off-hand. Everyone at OE was friendly and couldn't do enough for you. I paid less than half what I had been quoted at Optimax. OE did not pressurise you and they said I only needed basic lasik at a cost of £395/eye but I decided to have intralase aswell. Optimax quoted me £695/eye for basik lasik and an extra £800/eye for intralase. I treat myself for my 50th birthday and all I can say is it is the best birthday present I have ever had!