LASIK FAQs
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular refractive surgery used to correct vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. During the procedure, a specialized laser reshapes the cornea to improve the way light is focused on the retina, resulting in clearer vision and reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Good candidates for LASIK typically:
During a comprehensive eye exam, your ophthalmologist will determine if LASIK is the right option for you.
- Are 18 years of age or older
- Have a stable vision prescription for at least one year
- Have healthy eyes without conditions like severe dry eye or glaucoma
- Have a cornea that is thick enough to safely undergo the procedure
- Are in generally good health and not pregnant or nursing
During a comprehensive eye exam, your ophthalmologist will determine if LASIK is the right option for you.
LASIK uses a laser to create a thin flap in the cornea, which is then lifted to allow access to the underlying corneal tissue. A second laser is used to reshape the cornea, correcting the refractive error that causes vision problems. Once the cornea is reshaped, the flap is carefully placed back into position, where it naturally adheres without stitches.
LASIK is typically a painless procedure. Your eye will be numbed with anesthetic eye drops before the surgery begins, so you won’t feel any pain. Some patients may experience mild pressure during the procedure, but this is brief. After the surgery, you may feel some temporary discomfort or irritation, but this usually subsides within a day or two.
The LASIK procedure itself usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes per eye. However, you should plan to be at the clinic for about one to two hours for pre-operative preparation and post-operative care. Most patients return home the same day after the surgery.
Recovery from LASIK is typically fast. Most patients notice improved vision within 24 to 48 hours after surgery. While it can take a few weeks for your vision to fully stabilize, most people are able to return to work and normal activities within one to two days. Your doctor will provide you with detailed instructions for post-operative care and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing.
LASIK is designed to provide long-lasting vision correction. In the majority of cases, the results are permanent, although some patients may experience minor vision changes as they age, especially after 40, due to presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing on near objects). If needed, enhancement procedures can be performed to maintain optimal vision.
While LASIK is a safe and effective procedure for most patients, there are some potential risks, including:
- Dry eyes
- Glare, halos, or starbursts around lights, especially at night
- Flap complications during the healing process
- Under-correction or over-correction, requiring additional treatment
- Vision changes over time Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you and determine if LASIK is the best option for your eyes.
Many LASIK patients achieve 20/20 vision or better and no longer need glasses or contact lenses for most activities. However, some individuals may still require reading glasses as they age due to presbyopia. In rare cases, a patient may need glasses for certain activities, such as driving at night, but overall dependence on corrective eyewear is greatly reduced.
Yes, LASIK is typically performed on both eyes during the same appointment. This allows for a quicker recovery and ensures that both eyes heal and adapt to the new vision at the same time.
To prepare for LASIK surgery:
- Stop wearing contact lenses a few days to weeks before the procedure, as they can alter the shape of your cornea.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as your vision will be blurry immediately after surgery.
- Follow your surgeon’s specific instructions regarding pre-surgery care, such as avoiding lotions, makeup, and perfumes on the day of surgery. Your doctor will provide detailed instructions for preparing for LASIK to ensure the best possible outcome.
Immediately after LASIK, your vision may be blurry or hazy, but most patients notice significant improvement within 24 hours. You may experience some mild discomfort, including dry eyes, itching, or a gritty feeling, but this should improve within a few days. It’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes during recovery and follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions, including using prescribed eye drops to aid in healing.
Your surgeon will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your recovery and ensure that your eyes are healing properly. During this time, avoid swimming, hot tubs, and contact sports until your surgeon gives you clearance.
Your surgeon will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your recovery and ensure that your eyes are healing properly. During this time, avoid swimming, hot tubs, and contact sports until your surgeon gives you clearance.
Yes, LASIK can correct astigmatism. The procedure reshapes the cornea to correct the irregular curvature that causes astigmatism, improving the way light is focused onto the retina and resulting in clearer vision.
The cost of LASIK can vary depending on the technology used, the surgeon’s experience, and your geographical location. While LASIK is generally not covered by insurance, many providers offer financing options to make the procedure more affordable. At Azure Eye Center, we can provide you with detailed information on pricing and payment options during your consultation.
Choosing an experienced and qualified LASIK surgeon is key to achieving the best results. Look for a surgeon who:
- Is board-certified in ophthalmology
- Has extensive experience performing LASIK and other refractive surgeries
- Uses advanced, FDA-approved laser technology
- Has a high success rate and positive patient reviews
At Azure Eye Center, Dr. David Truong and his team have extensive experience in performing LASIK, offering personalized care to help patients in DFW, Fort Worth, and Alliance achieve their best vision.
In most cases, LASIK is considered an elective procedure and is not covered by insurance. However, some insurance plans or employer-sponsored health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs) may provide partial coverage or allow you to use pre-tax dollars toward the cost of the procedure. Check with your insurance provider to see what options are available.
