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Is LASIK Eye Surgery Covered by Insurance?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Many who are considering LASIK eye surgery often ask one common question: Is LASIK covered by insurance? The short answer is that LASIK is an elective surgery and not typically covered by insurance plans, but there are options available to help cover the cost of LASIK laser eye surgery. Financing options are available for LASIK patients. Ahead, we’ll review some of the most popular options for covering the cost of LASIK surgery.

Understanding the Value of LASIK

Before diving into financing options, it’s important to recognize the long-term value of LASIK eye surgery. While the upfront cost may seem significant, the procedure often proves to be a cost-effective solution when compared to the ongoing expenses of glasses, contact lenses, and related eye care products over a lifetime.

Learn More about Cost of LASIK

Options for Financing Your Laser Eye Surgery

The decision to undergo LASIK surgery is a significant one, and financial considerations often play a pivotal role in the process. Fortunately, a variety of financing options are available to help individuals achieve their goal of improved vision.

Insurance Savings and Partial Coverage through Insurance

While LASIK insurance coverage is rare, it’s important to note that some insurance plans and employers do provide partial coverage for LASIK surgery. TLC Laser Eye Centers work with many major vision insurance providers to offer LASIK savings, and the savings apply on the day of the procedure so that you don’t have to wait for reimbursement. The TLC team will work with you to make sure you’re getting the most savings possible.

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LASIK Financing

TLC Laser Eye Centers offer financing options for laser eye surgery patients. We work with CareCredit, a credit card created specifically for healthcare needs which offers special financing options. If you have specific questions about the financing options available, you can learn more at your local TLC Laser Eye Center.

CareCredit: Healthcare-Specific Credit Card

CareCredit is a specialized credit card designed to cover healthcare expenses, including LASIK surgery. It offers flexible financing options that allow you to pay for your procedure over time, often with promotional financing offers that can make the cost more manageable. We are proud to partner with CareCredit that offers our patients:

  • Flexible payment plans
  • Special financing options with potentially lower interest rates
  • The ability to cover procedures not typically included in standard insurance plans

In-House Financing: Our Commitment to Your Vision

Understanding that each patient’s financial situation is unique, we have developed our own in-house financing program. This option ensures that regardless of your circumstances, you will have access to guaranteed financing. Our in-house plans feature:

  • Customized payment schedules
  • Competitive interest rates
  • No hidden fees or prepayment penalties

Health Savings Accounts (HSA)

A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-exempt account that allows individuals with a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) to save money for medical expenses, including LASIK surgery. Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, and funds can be withdrawn tax-free to pay for qualified medical expenses. At [Our Clinic Name], we support our patients in utilizing their HSA funds to cover LASIK costs, providing a convenient and tax-efficient way to invest in your vision health.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is another tax-advantaged financial tool that allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for eligible medical expenses, including LASIK surgery. FSAs are typically offered through employer-sponsored benefit plans and can be used for a wide range of medical needs. Planning ahead is crucial when using an FSA, as funds must be used within the plan year or forfeited.

Just as with an HSA, using an FSA to cover medical needs may be easier with good planning. You can use TLC’s free FSA savings calculator for an easy way to explore how it all works.

LASIK covered by insurance

Planning Your LASIK Financing Strategy

Whether you choose to finance LASIK through CareCredit, our in-house options, or utilize tax-advantaged accounts like HSAs and FSAs, careful planning is key to maximizing your benefits. Understanding the eligibility requirements and financial implications of each option will help you make informed decisions about your vision correction journey.

At TLC Laser Eye Centers, we are committed to making LASIK surgery accessible and affordable for our patients. Through our comprehensive financing options and support for tax-advantaged accounts like HSAs and FSAs, we strive to ensure that cost is not a barrier to achieving clearer vision. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you finance your LASIK procedure and take the first step towards a life free from glasses and contact lenses.

If you have any questions about LASIK insurance coverage, financing, or payment options, the TLC team is here to help you learn more. Schedule your free LASIK consultation at your local TLC Laser Eye Center to learn more about financing for laser eye surgery, discuss the benefits of LASIK, and find the options that work for you.

What Is the Real Cost of LASIK Eye Surgery?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

As you research your laser eye surgery options, you may find that there’s a large variance in the cost of LASIK depending on where you look. Advertised prices can be as low as $250 per eye, while the top end of the LASIK price range can reach more than $4,000 per eye. So, what is the real cost of laser eye surgery? The answer depends on a number of key factors, like the surgeon you choose, the technology used for your procedure, what is included in your LASIK eye surgery quote, and the location where you’re having the procedure. Ahead, we’ll take a closer look at the real cost of LASIK, along with some tips to help cover the cost.

Key Factors in the Cost of Laser Eye Surgery:

Choosing a LASIK Surgeon

While there are many factors that determine your laser eye surgery cost, the surgeon and procedure that you choose ultimately have the biggest influence on price. A more experienced surgeon may charge more for a procedure, due to the level of experience and expertise they bring to the table. Whether more experience is worth the increased cost is up to the patient, and the most important thing is to do the research required to find a surgeon who you trust for your LASIK procedure.

Cost of LASIK

Laser Technology

Regardless of how long your surgeon has been practicing laser eye surgery, the type of LASIK procedure that you choose will have a major impact on your price. Traditional LASIK, which has been an effective treatment option since the 1990s, may cost less than newer variations of the procedure that rely on the latest laser technology. The cost of Custom Wavefront LASIK, for example, will be higher than the cost of traditional LASIK, due to the technology required for the procedure.

What’s Included?

When you meet with your LASIK surgeon, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about which procedure is the best fit for your vision needs. You’ll also want to make sure that you learn exactly what your LASIK quote includes, so that you can accurately evaluate your options. Understanding what you’re paying for in detail will make it easier to compare your options.

Location

The real cost of LASIK is also influenced by the factors that impact the cost of any service, including geography. If you live in an area with a high cost of living, then the cost of laser eye surgery in your area may be higher, as well.

Covering the Cost of LASIK Eye Surgery

It’s rare for insurance to cover the full cost of LASIK eye surgery unless your profession requires exceptional vision, but there are plenty of resources available to help cover the cost of LASIK.

Financing

For many, the upfront cost of LASIK can be daunting. Fortunately, there are several financing options available to help manage the expense.

    CareCredit

    We work with CareCredit to offer patients financing options that help make your LASIK procedure as affordable as possible. CareCredit is a credit card designed exclusively for special financing offers.*

    HSA

    People who have a high deductible health plan (HDHP) can use a Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay for elective services like LASIK.

    FSA

    The IRS considers laser vision correction an eligible medical expense. This means you can use your pre-tax FSA funds to cover a portion, or even the entirety, of the LASIK procedure, depending on your specific circumstances.

    Credit Cards

    Certain credit cards may afford you an extended period to liquidate your balance, while others might offer an interest-free grace period. Additionally, some cards permit you to accrue rewards, points, travel miles, or even cash rebates. There are also cards that facilitate balance transfers, granting another span of interest-free payment, thereby providing the opportunity to cover the laser eye surgery costs gradually.

    Understanding the real cost of LASIK involves more than just comparing prices. It requires a comprehensive look at the factors influencing these costs and the available financial strategies to manage them. By carefully considering the surgeon’s expertise, the technology used, the inclusiveness of the quoted price, and geographic location, you can make an informed decision that ensures both affordability and quality of care. Schedule a free LASIK consultation today to discover the TLC difference.

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    Author Biography

    Dr. Louis Probst is one of the most experienced surgeons in the world having performed more than 110,000 LASIK procedures in almost 22 years. For the last ten years, Dr. Probst has performed exclusively refractive surgery and currently specializes in bladeless all-laser LASIK.

    How Does Bladeless LASIK Work?

    Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

    Are you considering LASIK eye surgery and wondering which procedure is right for you? With various types of laser eye surgery available, each using different tools, technology, and techniques, it’s important to choose the one that best meets your needs. Bladeless LASIK, a popular alternative to traditional LASIK, shares many similarities with its traditional counterpart but also has a few key differences. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at how bladeless vision correction works and what you can expect from the procedure.

    Bladeless Laser Eye Surgery: How Blade Free LASIK Works, and What to Expect

    Learning about laser eye surgery options online is a great first step, but it’s important to note that only your laser eye surgeon can recommend the right procedure for your unique needs. So, if you haven’t scheduled your free laser eye surgery consultation yet, now is a great time to do so.

    The first step toward learning more about bladeless LASIK is explaining some of the lingo:

     Also Known As…

    During your research you may find that bladeless LASIK is referred to by a few different names, but each refers to the same procedure. Some of the common names for bladeless LASIK include blade free LASIK, and all-laser LASIK. You may also see a brand name integrated with one of those common terms for bladeless LASIK.

    How Bladeless Laser Eye Surgery Works

    If you’re learning about laser eye surgery, you may already be familiar with the concept of the LASIK flap, which is created at the start of the procedure and allows your LASIK eye surgeon to address vision problems at the correct level of the eye. During traditional LASIK procedures, the flap is created by an instrument called a microkeratome, which is an oscillating diamond blade.

    • Instead of using a microkeratome, bladeless laser eye surgery relies on the use of a specialized laser to create the LASIK flap. This is where the terms “bladeless” and “all-laser” LASIK come from, as well as the key difference between bladeless and traditional LASIK.
    • By using the most advanced LASIK technology, your laser eye surgeon is able to map the eye, based on the unique structure of each individual’s eye, to create a custom LASIK flap.
    • After the flap is created, the bladeless LASIK procedure works very similarly to traditional LASIK. Most importantly, bladeless surgery significantly reduces intra and post-operative complications making it a safer procedure.

    What to Expect from Bladeless LASIK Surgery

    While blade-free LASIK has a few key differences from traditional LASIK, the preparation, procedure, and healing process share many similarities. The process begins with a visit to your local TLC Laser Eye Center for a free consultation.

    • During your free consultation, your laser eye surgery specialist will review your vision correction needs, and discuss your laser eye surgery options.
    • Before the bladeless vision correction procedure, you’ll have a pre-operative visit, which makes specific measurements of your eye. This is when much of the “customization” is done for the procedure.
    • On the day of your procedure, your laser eye surgery team will prepare you for surgery, and after the procedure, there will be a brief recovery period. Bladeless LASIK is an outpatient procedure, which means that you get to go home the same day.
    • The recovery process begins with rest on the day of surgery and continues with follow-up visits to check on your progress. As healing progresses and vision stabilizes, there is a longer gap between each follow-up visit.
    • While every patient is unique, most patients see very well the next day. As with any surgery, it takes time to heal. Most patients are able to resume normal daily activities within a few days and the eye is completely healed in 3 months. You are seen for scheduled visits along the way. Overall, you may notice many similarities between bladeless and traditional LASIK, along with the differences that set each procedure apart.

    Scheduling your free laser eye surgery consultation is the best way to learn more about bladeless vision correction, and the laser eye surgery options available.

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    Am I Too Old for LASIK?

    Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

    Many patients seek to eliminate their reliance on glasses and contact lenses but are unsure if LASIK is a viable option as they age. A common question about LASIK is whether it’s suitable for older individuals. Fortunately, the criteria for LASIK candidacy remain consistent regardless of age: stable vision prescription, healthy eyes, and good overall health are key factors. However, since our eyes and visual needs evolve over time, there are a few additional considerations for laser eye surgery later in life.

    Why There’s No Upper Age Limit on LASIK

    The only real age limit for a LASIK procedure, per the FDA, is that each surgical candidate should be at least 18 years of age. Our eyes and corresponding prescription requirements may change frequently at that age, and it’s important to wait until that tendency to change stabilizes before having laser eye surgery. There are a few other developmental milestones in life that often motivate people to consider laser eye surgery, beginning in early adulthood.

    • The most common range for LASIK patients is between 20 and 45 years old. Vision prescriptions often stabilize in the mid-twenties, so this is a natural time for people to consider LASIK eye surgery.
    • Next up is the 45 to 55-year age range, the time when many people begin to feel the early effects of presbyopia, which is related to the natural aging process and causes difficulty with near vision. While LASIK may be a treatment option for some presbyopia patients, we certainly have more vision correction technologies to offer our presbyopic patients, such as Monovision.
    • Beyond age 55, cataracts may start to develop even though they may not affect your vision at early stages. When cataract is determined to be the main reason for changes in your vision, cataract extraction surgery becomes the preferred method of treatment to improve your vision instead of LASIK eye surgery.

    The basics for LASIK candidacy include a stable vision prescription for at least one year, no eye diseases, and good overall health. If you’ve got those things, then you’re off to an excellent start.

    It’s important to note that good overall health doesn’t have to mean perfect health. Not every potential health issue for seniors impacts the eyes, and speaking with a LASIK specialist is the best way to learn how laser eye surgery fits in with various health needs.

    Regardless of your age, are you curious whether LASIK eye surgery is the right fit for your vision health needs? The easiest way to find out is to schedule a free consultation with TLC LASIK specialist, where you can determine if you’re a candidate and learn more about what laser eye surgery can do for you.

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    Can I Get LASIK Eye Surgery If I’m Pregnant?

    Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

    Capture Every Precious Moment

    Motherhood is a whirlwind of joy, filled with countless milestones that fly by in a blink. From first smiles to wobbly steps, these moments become cherished memories. But blurry vision can make it harder to fully experience the magic.

    LASIK: A Gift for Future Adventures

    LASIK eye surgery offers an effective way to achieve clear vision, but it’s important to wait until after pregnancy. Hormonal changes and medications used during LASIK can impact results. Nursing patients can consult with a LASIK specialist to assess their individual circumstances and determine whether the procedure is a suitable option.

    The Wait is Worth It: Preparing for Post-Pregnancy LASIK

    The good news? Recovery from LASIK is quick, so you won’t miss precious time with your little one. Here’s how to prepare for LASIK after pregnancy:

    • Find Your Perfect LASIK Provider: Research local surgeons and prioritize finding one who aligns with your needs.
    • Explore Financing Options: Many LASIK centers offer financing plans. Researching these options upfront empowers you to make informed decisions later.
    • Gather Your Questions: Make a list of questions for your consultation. This ensures you get all the information you need.
    • Seek First-Hand Experiences: Talk to friends or family who’ve had LASIK. Their insights can validate your research.

    Schedule a FREE LASIK Consultation Today

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    Embrace the Future with Clear Vision

    Imagine seeing your child’s first laugh with perfect clarity. LASIK unlocks a world of vibrant details, making every milestone even more special.

    The Gift of Seeing Clearly

    Clear vision is a gift that keeps on giving. By researching LASIK now, you’ll be ready to embrace motherhood with perfect vision.

    Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing moms!

    Source:

    How does pregnancy affect LASIK? (2018, February 12). American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/ask-ophthalmologist-q/how-does-pregnancy-affect-lasik

    Cost Questions to Ask Your LASIK Provider

    Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

    The cost of LASIK eye surgery depends on many factors and with so many factors to consider, it’s no surprise that questions about LASIK cost are quite common. Ahead, we’ll cover some of the most common questions about the cost of LASIK eye surgery, and suggest key topics to discuss with your LASIK provider.

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    What is included in the LASIK cost?

    This is one of the most important questions you can ask about the cost of laser eye surgery. The answer depends in large part on your LASIK provider, and how they structure their services. Some LASIK cost quotes focus specifically on the laser eye surgery procedure, while others include aftercare and other extras. Ask your provider exactly what they include in the cost of LASIK, and don’t be afraid to request clarification if you’re unsure about anything.

    Is the laser eye surgery cost different by eye?

    The cost of laser eye surgery is typically listed per eye, so a laser eye surgery quote of $1,000 per eye would equal a total cost of $2,000 for both eyes. While most laser eye surgery patients have the procedure on both eyes, there are occasions in which people may opt for LASIK on one eye due to their specific vision correction needs.

    Do different LASIK procedures have difference costs?

    Different LASIK and laser eye surgery procedures do have different costs, often based on the laser technology used to perform the laser eye surgery procedure that is specific to your vision correction needs. Consider the benefits of each procedure and how they relate to your own needs in order to make an informed decision. The best way to understand if LASIK if right for you is to schedule a free consultation.

    What if I want an assurance plan?

    A LASIK assurance plan provides re-treatment when certain criteria apply, typically, for a set period after your laser eye surgery is complete. Ask your surgeon if a one-year assurance plan is included with your surgery, and request information on the cost of a lifetime assurance plan. An assurance plan will typically increase the cost of LASIK up front, but many LASIK patients enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that re-treatment is always covered if they have the need.

    Does insurance cover LASIK surgery?

    Laser eye surgery is generally considered to be an elective procedure by insurance companies, which means that it won’t normally be covered by a health insurance policy. However, you may be covered by insurance if certain conditions apply, so it is worth inquiring with your insurance company. The good news is that even if you aren’t covered by insurance, there are many affordable ways to cover the laser eye surgery cost.

    When it comes to the cost of LASIK surgery, remember that you have many financing options available. Most LASIK providers offer financing that allows you to pay for the procedure over time, and tax-friendly savings options like health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts make it easier to save for medical costs.

    In conclusion, the cost of LASIK surgery encompasses various factors, including the LASIK provider’s pricing structure, the specific procedure chosen, and the inclusion of additional services or assurances. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of these elements, individuals can make informed decisions regarding their vision correction journey. Whether exploring financing options or assessing the benefits of different LASIK procedures, proactive engagement and thorough research are key to achieving optimal visual outcomes.

    Schedule a free LASIK consultation with TLC Laser Eye Centers to embark on your path to clearer vision today.

    Schedule a FREE LASIK Consultation Today

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    LASIK Recovery Time: What to Expect

    Posted on by Lisa Scheibenzuber

    LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a popular vision correction procedure that uses lasers to reshape the cornea, improving vision for those with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. While LASIK offers the promise of clearer vision without glasses or contact lenses, understanding the LASIK recovery time and potential side effects is crucial for making informed decisions.

    Here’s a breakdown of what to expect after LASIK eye surgery:

    First few hours after treatment:

    • Temporary eye discomfort: You may experience some initial eye discomfort, such as a tingly sensation or slight dryness.
    • Increased tear production: Your eyes might produce more tears initially to aid healing and lubrication.
    • Temporary light sensitivity: You may be temporarily more sensitive to light, similar to having an adjusted camera lens.

    Your doctor will provide eye drops to manage discomfort and a protective shield for overnight wear. Best thing to do?  Try and get some rest right after treatment.

    24-48 Hours:

    Schedule a quick follow-up visit with your eye doctor to ensure your eyes stay healthy and comfortable. During the appointment, they’ll perform a routine vision assessment and discuss any adjustments to your eye care routine, like potentially prescribing new eye drops or recommending artificial tears for additional comfort. You’ll be able to resume your normal activities right away, but it’s best to avoid strenuous exercise for 1-3 days to allow your eyes to fully recover.

    1-3 Weeks:

    • Temporary vision adjustments: You may experience some temporary changes in your vision, such as slight blurring or fluctuations, as your eyes heal.  This has been reported to be similar to an old glasses or contact lens prescription.
    • Light sensitivity: You might notice some initial light sensitivity, which is normal and usually subsides quickly.

    Up to 3 to 6 Months:

    Expect your vision to steadily improve over the next few months, with many people achieving clear and stable vision around 3 to 6 months. Regular check-ins with your eye doctor will help them track your progress and address any questions or concerns you may have along the way.

    Factors Affecting LASIK Recovery Time:

    • Flap dislocation: A rare complication where the corneal flap created during LASIK moves from its position. It requires immediate medical attention and can prolong recovery.
    • Dry eye: The most common side effect, causing irritation and discomfort. Symptoms usually subside within a month, but can persist in some cases.
    • Infections: Extremely rare, but following post-operative care instructions strictly minimizes the risk.

    Tips for a Smooth LASIK Recovery:

    • Follow your doctor’s instructions meticulously.
    • Avoid lotions, creams, and makeup around the eye for 2 weeks, or as directed by your doctor.
    • Continue eyelash hygiene as instructed.
    • Refrain from swimming, hot tubs, and strenuous activities for the recommended period.
    • Protect your eyes from getting hit or rubbed, especially in the first few weeks.
    • Use artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated.
    LASIK recovery days

    Remember, LASIK recovery is a process, not an event. While most people experience significant vision improvement quickly, complete healing and stabilization can take up to 3 to 6 months. Consulting a qualified LASIK care expert and adhering to post-operative care guidelines are crucial for a successful LASIK experience.

    LASIK Eye Surgery Boasts an Impressive 96-98% Patient Satisfaction Rate

    Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

    LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) has revolutionized vision correction, providing a minimally invasive alternative to glasses and contact lenses. As of 2018, over 9.5 million Americans have undergone LASIK surgery due to its convenience, good results, and high success rate.

    In fact, one study reports that LASIK has an impressive patient success rate between 96-98%! Research indicates LASIK enables:

    • 99% of patients to achieve 20/40 vision or better
    • 90% of patients to achieve ideal 20/20 vision
    • 50% of patients to gain better than 20/20 vision
    LASIK success rate

    Driving Factors Behind LASIK’s High Success Rates

    Several factors account for why LASIK is so successful, including:

    • Advanced laser systems
    • Precision techniques
    • Experienced surgeons.

    Additionally, the vast majority of procedures are performed by specially trained ophthalmologists and optometrists with years of surgical experience. Their expertise contributes greatly to LASIK’s impressive outcomes.

    Understanding LASIK’s Low Complication Rates

    In addition to excellent success rates, LASIK eye surgery has been determined to have minimal risks or side effects. Current estimates place the complication rate at less than 1%

    While the first days may involve mild irritation and light sensitivity, long-term issues like dry eye or halos are uncommon. When they do occur, symptoms often resolve within 3-6 months.

    The most serious complications involve the corneal flap created during surgery. However, with precise laser tools and skilled surgeons, flap issues and related optical problems are very rare.

    Schedule a FREE LASIK Consultation Today

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    Affordability May Be the Only Barrier for Some Patients

    Given the outstanding safety and success of modern LASIK techniques, affordability remains one of the biggest barriers limiting access for patients. While prices vary, custom options with advanced technology may cost more than standard treatment.

    For those concerned about cost, flexible spending accounts, health savings account, insurance and financing options can make LASIK more affordable. The proven results and life-changing conveniences make it well worth the investment for most people. Check out the ongoing expense of glasses and contacts.

    Affordable LASIK Options

    Like any surgery, LASIK has risks and potential complications that are discussed during a surgical consultation prior to the procedure.

    Sources:

    Bayba, M. (2024, January 11). LASIK Statistics – Safety and Success Rates in 2024. Vision Center. https://www.visioncenter.org/resources/lasik-statistics/

    Refractive Surgery Council. “Is LASIK Safe? What You Need to Know,” October 13, 2022. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/is-lasik-safe/#:~:text=LASIK%20is%20one%20of%20the,of%20patients%20suffer%20complications%20LASIK.

    Refractive Surgery Council. “What Is the LASIK Success Rate?,” August 16, 2022. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/laser-eye-surgery-lasik-success-rate/#:~:text=The%20LASIK%20success%20rate%20%E2%80%93%20or,achieve%2020%2F20%20or%20better.

    Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, Vol. 42, Issue 8, August 2016, Pages 1224-1234

    Sugar A, Hood C, Mian S. Patient-reported outcomes following LASIK: quality of Life in the PROWL Studies. JAMA. 2017;317(2):204–205. doi: 10.1001/jama.2016.19323

    Hays RD, Tarver ME, Spritzer KL, et al. Assessment of the Psychometric Properties of a Questionnaire Assessing Patient-Reported Outcomes With Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (PROWL). JAMA Ophthalmol. 2017;135(1):3–12. doi: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2016.4597

    See Clearly in 2024: Lasik Eye Surgery Market Booms (7.7% CAGR). (n.d.). DataMIntelligence. https://www.datamintelligence.com/research-report/lasik-eye-surgery-market

    Top 5 Questions to Ask Your LASIK Surgeon

    Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

    Preparing for your first LASIK visit, or thinking about scheduling a consultation? Before you head to your local LASIK center, it’s important to consider any questions you might have about laser vision correction. Ahead, we’ll cover five questions that everyone should ask when visiting their LASIK doctor.

    LASIK notes

    How many LASIK surgeries have you performed?

    This is the perfect place to start when getting to know your LASIK surgeon. While a low number of surgeries don’t necessarily speak poorly of a provider, many people prefer to work with a more experienced surgeon. No matter your preference, it’s always a good idea to learn about your surgeon’s experience level.

    What laser technology do you use?

    LASIK technology is always evolving, including the lasers used to perform the procedure. In addition to standard laser vision correction, your provider may offer options like Bladeless LASIK, Custom LASIK, and Topography-Guided LASIK. Each comes with its own benefits, and your provider will help decide which is right for you.

    What determines my LASIK candidacy?

    The first thing to know is that if you’re healthy and over the age of 18, you’ve already checked two of the biggest boxes. However, each LASIK candidacy is evaluated individually, and it’s important to understand exactly how your candidacy is determined.

    Take the LASIK Candidacy Quiz

    TAKE THE QUIZ

    What can I expect during my LASIK surgery?

    LASIK is a quick procedure – just 15 minutes, total – and is performed on an outpatient basis at your LASIK center. You likely have more questions about the LASIK procedure and your LASIK doctor is the perfect person to ask for more information.

    What can I expect after my LASIK surgery?

    While LASIK is known to deliver consistent results, everyone heals individually. If you want to understand more about what the recovery period is like, how long it takes, and how soon you’ll notice improved vision, ask your LASIK surgeon for details. Online research may provide an outline, but only your surgeon can give an individualized answer based on your prescription and personalized laser eye surgery treatment plan.

    These are some of the most common LASIK questions, but there are all sorts of small details that you may want to ask about during your visit. Remember that there is no such thing as a silly question! Before your visit, set aside some time to make a list of your key questions. Your LASIK surgeon will be happy to provide answers, tailored to your individual case.

    Are Regular Eye Exams Important After LASIK?

    Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

    Eye Exams after LASIK Surgery

    Many LASIK eye surgery candidates question if they need to continue seeing an eye doctor after they have their procedure. After all, you could have 20/20 vision or better after surgery, which means there’s no point in getting regular eye exams, right? Wrong. Even after LASIK surgery it is important to get a comprehensive eye exam at least every one to two years. In these exams, eye doctors do more than just check your prescription and prescribe contacts or eyeglasses, so it is necessary to keep up with them even after your LASIK procedure.

    Your doctor will also check your overall eye health and for a multitude of potential problems such as: early signs of eye disease, focusing issues, refractive errors associated with age, and eye teaming problems or making sure your eyes work together and are properly aligned.

    Since most people take their vision and visual health for granted and usually don’t notice that something is wrong until there is a bigger problem, it is essential to keep up with routine eye exams after LASIK eye surgery. This way, your eye doctor can detect any eye problems early on so that they can be remedied as soon as possible. Some people will also experience dry eyes and discomfort from allergies, and an eye doctor can prescribe eye drops to relieve these symptoms so you can enjoy the benefits of your LASIK surgery to the fullest.

    eye exam

    LASIK Eye Surgery: A Lifetime Commitment

    By choosing to have LASIK surgery, you’ve already decided to live life with better vision, and annual visits to your eye doctor will help you enjoy those benefits for years to come. At TLC Laser Eye Centers, the TLC Lifetime Commitment® helps patients maintain the best possible vision throughout their lives by offering LASIK enhancements to eligible candidates. One of the main conditions of this program is to complete an annual eye exam with your TLC-affiliated eye doctor, making it even more important to continue with regular eye exams after LASIK eye surgery.

    It is always important to consult with your eye doctor for the best exam schedule after LASIK eye surgery based on your personal eye health. Attending these appointments is the best way to make sure you can benefit from a lifetime of better vision.

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