More LASIK eye surgery is performed in the US with each passing year. From the time the procedure was first FDA-approved in the late nineties to today, over 19 million people have benefited from laser eye surgery.[i] With the popularity of LASIK on the rise, chances are good that you already know someone who has invested in LASIK and is happy with the results. If you’ve thought about getting LASIK yourself, you probably have questions about the process and what you can expect. We’ve gathered some of the most commonly searched questions about LASIK eye surgery (and their answers!) for you.
How does LASIK work?
LASIK is an acronym for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. It is a refractive surgical procedure that aims to correct vision by reshaping the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye. During the procedure, the surgeon creates a thin corneal flap using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser. This flap is lifted, and a specialized excimer laser is used to remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue to reshape the cornea. The corneal flap is then repositioned, allowing the cornea to heal naturally.
What are the eligibility criteria for LASIK?
To determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK, several factors are considered. These include:
- Age: Most LASIK candidates are at least 18 years old, although age restrictions may vary depending on the clinic and surgeon. Stable vision is crucial, so the ideal candidate is often over 21 years old.
- Prescription stability: Your prescription should have remained relatively stable for at least one year before considering LASIK.
- Overall eye health: Your eyes should be healthy, without any existing eye diseases, infections, or conditions that may affect the healing process.
- Corneal thickness: Sufficient corneal thickness is required for the creation of a corneal flap during LASIK. Thinner corneas may make you ineligible for LASIK, but other refractive surgeries like PRK may be options.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It is generally recommended to postpone LASIK until after pregnancy, as hormonal changes can affect vision stability. Breastfeeding patients may consult with a LASIK specialist to determine if the procedure can be safely performed under their individual circumstances.
What is the recovery process like?
After LASIK surgery, most patients experience improved vision within the first 24 to 48 hours. However, everyone’s healing process is unique, and it may take several weeks or even months for vision to stabilize fully. During the initial recovery period, you may experience temporary side effects such as dry eyes, light sensitivity, glare, halos, and mild discomfort. These typically resolve within a few weeks. It is important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon, including using prescribed eye drops and attending follow-up appointments, to ensure proper healing and monitor your progress.
Will I need to wear glasses after LASIK?
The goal of LASIK is to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses for most daily activities. The majority of LASIK patients experience significant vision improvement and can enjoy clear vision without glasses. However, it is important to note that LASIK does not prevent the natural aging of the eyes. As you get older, you may still require reading glasses for near vision tasks, especially after the age of 40 (presbyopia). Additionally, if you have a high prescription or other underlying eye conditions, you may still need glasses for certain activities or in specific situations. Your surgeon can discuss your individual expectations and the potential need for glasses after LASIK based on your unique circumstances.
How long does the LASIK procedure take?
The LASIK procedure itself is typically quick, lasting only about 10 to 15 minutes per eye. However, it is important to allocate sufficient time for pre-operative preparations and post-operative care instructions. The overall time spent at the LASIK center may vary, including the time required for pre-operative evaluations, discussions with your surgeon, and post-operative assessments.
Are there any alternatives to LASIK?
Yes, there are alternative vision correction procedures to LASIK. Some alternatives include:
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): This procedure is similar to LASIK but involves removing the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) instead of creating a flap. PRK may be a suitable option for patients with thin corneas or other corneal irregularities.
- Implantable lenses: For individuals with high refractive errors or thin corneas, implantable lenses, such as phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) or clear lens exchange, may be options to consider.
It is essential to consult with a qualified LASIK specialist to determine the most appropriate vision correction procedure for your specific needs and eye characteristics.
How much does LASIK cost?
The cost of LASIK can vary depending on several factors, including the geographic location, the reputation and expertise of the surgeon, the technology used, and the specific clinic or center where the procedure is performed. On average, LASIK can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 per eye. It is important to consider the long-term value of LASIK, as it can potentially reduce or eliminate the ongoing cost of glasses or contact lenses. Many LASIK centers offer financing options, flexible payment plans, or accept health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) to make the procedure more affordable for patients.
How long do the results of LASIK last?
LASIK is designed to provide long-lasting vision correction. For the majority of patients, the results are permanent. However, it is important to note that the eyes can still undergo natural changes as you age. Presbyopia, the age-related loss of near vision, may still occur after LASIK and may require the use of reading glasses. Additionally, certain lifestyle factors or underlying eye conditions may impact the long-term stability of the results. Regular eye exams and consultations with your LASIK specialist can help monitor and manage any changes that may occur.
Can LASIK treat astigmatism?
Yes, LASIK can effectively correct astigmatism in addition to nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia). Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, resulting in blurred or distorted vision at all distances. During LASIK, the excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea, correcting the irregularities and improving vision clarity. LASIK has been proven to be a successful treatment option for astigmatism, providing patients with clearer and more focused vision.
In conclusion, LASIK eye surgery offers an effective and popular option for individuals seeking long-term vision correction. By addressing common questions and concerns, individuals can gain a better understanding of the LASIK process and make informed decisions about their eye health. If you are considering LASIK, consult with a reputable LASIK specialist to determine your eligibility and explore the potential benefits of this life-changing procedure.
[i] American Refractive Surgery Council. (2019). How Does LASIK Work? Everything You Need to Know About Laser Eye Surgery. Americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org. Retrieved from https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/everything-you-think-you-know-about-lasik-eye-surgery/
Can LASIK be performed on both eyes at the same time?
Yes, LASIK can be performed on both eyes during the same surgical session. In fact, it is a common practice to treat both eyes simultaneously to ensure balanced vision correction and reduce the overall recovery time. Performing LASIK on both eyes together can provide more convenience and allow for a quicker return to normal activities.
Are there any age restrictions for LASIK?
While most LASIK candidates are adults, there is no upper age limit for LASIK surgery. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and have stable vision, you can undergo LASIK at any age. In fact, many older individuals have successfully undergone LASIK and experienced significant improvement in their vision.
Can LASIK correct vision for people with high prescriptions?
LASIK is highly effective in correcting vision for individuals with high prescriptions. However, the suitability for LASIK may depend on factors such as corneal thickness and the overall health of your eyes. In some cases, alternative procedures like phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) or clear lens exchange may be recommended. An experienced LASIK specialist can assess your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment option.
Is LASIK covered by insurance?
In most cases, LASIK is considered an elective or cosmetic procedure and is not covered by standard health insurance plans. However, some vision insurance plans or medical savings accounts may offer partial coverage or discounts for LASIK. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider or LASIK center to understand the available options for potential cost savings.
What should I expect during the LASIK consultation?
During the LASIK consultation, you will undergo a comprehensive eye examination to evaluate your eye health, visual acuity, corneal thickness, and other important factors. The LASIK specialist will discuss your medical history, vision goals, and address any questions or concerns you may have. This consultation is an opportunity for the specialist to determine your candidacy for LASIK and provide personalized recommendations based on your unique needs.
How long do the effects of LASIK take to stabilize?
After LASIK surgery, it is common for your vision to continue improving over time as your eyes heal. While many patients experience significant improvement within the first few days, it may take several weeks or even months for your vision to stabilize completely. During this period, it is important to attend follow-up appointments and adhere to the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon.
Can I undergo LASIK if I have dry eyes?
Dry eyes can affect the healing process and overall comfort after LASIK surgery. However, it doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from undergoing the procedure. Your LASIK specialist will assess the severity of your dry eyes and may recommend treatments or precautions to manage the condition both before and after surgery. It is important to have a thorough discussion with your surgeon about your dry eye symptoms and any concerns you may have.
Can LASIK correct vision for individuals with thin corneas?
LASIK requires a certain amount of corneal thickness to create the corneal flap and perform the laser reshaping. If you have thin corneas, LASIK may not be suitable for you. However, other procedures like PRK or implantable lenses may be options to correct your vision. An evaluation with a qualified LASIK specialist can help determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific circumstances.
Can LASIK be performed on individuals with astigmatism and other refractive errors?
Yes, LASIK can effectively correct astigmatism in addition to nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia). Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, resulting in blurred or distorted vision at all distances. During LASIK, the excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea, correcting the irregularities and improving vision clarity. LASIK has been proven to be a successful treatment option for astigmatism, providing patients with clearer and more focused vision.
[i] American Refractive Surgery Council. (2019). How Does LASIK Work? Everything You Need to Know About Laser Eye Surgery. Americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org. Retrieved from https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/everything-you-think-you-know-about-lasik-eye-surgery/
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