I had epi-lasek at the Birmingham clinic just under a week ago (19/6/05). I had prepared myself for the worst, and imagined dreadful pain, both during and afterwards. I can honestly say, it was fine. The actual procedure is over very quickly, and really doesn't hurt...just a slight feeling of pressure.
Within half an hour, my eyes were very sore, but nowhere near as bad as I had imagined. My eyelids became quite swollen, and being in a bright room was uncomfortable, so I took two sleeping tablets (provided) and went to bed.
By the next morning, most of the swelling had gone down and the soreness had eased. I just felt like I usually do when I've had my contact lenses in too long. I didn't need to take the ibuprofen (also provided) after the first night.
Two days later I had the bandage lenses removed (no pain during or after) and was told that I was already legal to drive.
Apart from a little occasional blurring, I would guess that my sight is as good as it was with my glasses, and I'm looking forward to my next aftercare appointment to find out for sure.
I would advise anyone planning on epi-lasek to allow themselves at least five days to recover...I found my eyes felt tired quickly, and wouldn't have wanted to be by a computer screen or having to do lots of reading/writing. It also helps if there is someone around to put the eyedrops in after...not easy to do yourself in the first few hours!
I can't believe how much more confident I feel now that I don't need my glasses, and wish I hadn't put it off for so long! It is a big decision to take, but I did a lot of background reading beforehand, and my surgeon answered all my questions clearly. It was also comforting to know that there was a 24hr help line, although I didn't need it.
All the best to anyone about to have surgery.