LASIK Surgery FAQs
Laser vision correction has helped millions of people reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. If you’re considering LASIK or another refractive procedure, it’s normal to have questions about candidacy, safety, recovery, and what to expect. Below, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand your options and take the next step toward clearer vision.
Am I a good candidate for LASIK?
Almost anyone is a candidate for Laser Vision Correction provided that they meet certain criteria. They need to have a treatable range of refractive error, no underlying eye diseases, a normal cornea and realistic expectations.
Is LASIK safe?
LASIK is an FDA-approved procedure that has been performed safely and effectively for over two decades. As with any surgery, there are potential risks, but serious complications are rare. During your consultation, Dr. Carlson will evaluate your eyes and medical history to determine if LASIK is a safe option for you.
What is the recovery like after LASIK?
With any type of procedure the recovery is similar. On the day of the procedure, you return home , rest and begin your eye drops. You are usually seen the next day, one week, one month and 3 months. All during this time the vision improves but is usually very acceptable after the first week.
What vision problems can LASIK correct?
It corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
How is LASIK different from other laser eye surgeries?
In the broad category of Laser Vision Correction, there are vision corrections done under a flap of cornel tissue ( LASIK) and those done under the surface corneal layer ( LASEK or PRK).
What happens during the LASIK procedure?
In LASIK, a femtosecond laser creates a corneal flap on the eye surface and the flap is then lifted to perform the vision treatment. In LASEK or PRK, the corneal surface epithelium is gently moved aside, and the vision correction is performed without creating a flap.
How long does the LASIK procedure take?
All Laser Vision Correction procedures take about 20 to 30 minutes for both eyes together.
Is LASIK painful?
Laser Vision Correction procedures of any type can be associated discomfort especially early in the healing. This discomfort is usually a feeling of dryness and irritation.
How soon will I notice vision improvement?
This is variable with each person and the type of procedure perform. Some notice changes within the first day and others over the first several days.
How long do LASIK results last?
These procedures permanently alter the shape of the cornea and only regress or change infrequently.
What are the potential risks and complications?
The biggest “risk” by far is unmet expectations. The surgery did not eliminate glasses and contacts for all activities. In addition, about 5% or less may need an additional enhancement to get the individual’s best uncorrected vision. Continued dry eye is one of the most irritating problems. In fact, in LASIK about one out of ten thousand can have a very serve dry eye after the surgery. This appears to be related to the flap as it causes nerve endings to be severed and in susceptible individuals a serious dry eye can develop. Other complications of infection and loss ot vision can rarely occur This is usually the result of an infection. The flap in LASIK has several known complications including displacement and poor healing.
Will I still need reading glasses as I age?
Yes. LASIK surgery corrects your distance vision, but it doesn’t prevent age-related changes to your eyes. As you get older, typically around your mid-40s, you may develop a condition called presbyopia. This is a natural part of aging where the lens of your eye becomes less flexible, making it harder to focus on close-up objects. Even if you had perfect vision after LASIK, presbyopia can still cause you to need reading glasses for tasks like reading or looking at your phone. Some patients consider options like monovision LASIK to help address this, but it’s important to discuss your long-term vision goals with your surgeon.
How much does LASIK cost?
The cost is usually in the $2,000 per eye range.
Is LASIK covered by insurance?
No, except for rare employer discounts.
How do I choose the right LASIK surgeon?
Most LASIK surgeons are very experienced at these procedures and do them well. A go way to decide is to have consultations at several locations to see which is the best fit.
What should I expect during the consultation?
Consultations are usually screening devices to see if a person is even a candidate for the surgery. In addition, the types of recommended procedures that costs and meeting the surgeon are important aspects.
Are there any activities I should avoid after LASIK?
Only avoid trauma, and contamination for the first week or two. Very few restrictions.
How should I prepare for LASIK surgery?
First get a LASIK consult. At the visit the procedure and the preparatory information such as drops, eyelid washing, and surgical times will be discussed. Be sure to bring a driver to surgery.
Can I have LASIK if I have dry eyes?
Yes, but it depends upon how severe it is. If mild , pre and postoperative drops and medicines will be given to less the dryness. Certain procedures such as LASEK/PRK may be better in a somewhat dry eye patient.
How soon can I return to work after LASIK?
Of course, this depends on the type of work you do. Some jobs could allow you to return to work the next day while others may be a few days later.