Lasik Eye Surgery

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular type of refractive eye surgery that can correct common vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The procedure reshapes the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to allow light entering the eye to be properly focused onto the retina for clearer vision.

Ideal candidates for LASIK are at least 18 years old, have had a stable vision prescription for at least one year, and have no health issues affecting their eyes.

Additionally, candidates should not be pregnant or nursing, have a high refractive error, or have severe dry eyes. A comprehensive eye exam is necessary to make the final determination for eligibility.

Answer a few questions to see if you are a candidate: Take the LASIK Self-Test

No, LASIK surgery is not painful.  Most patients report feeling little to no pain during the surgery. Before the procedure, your eye surgeon will numb your eyes with anesthetic eye drops. While you might feel some pressure or discomfort, this is typically not painful for our patients. Post-surgery, some patients may experience mild discomfort or itching, which is only temporary.

The actual LASIK procedure typically takes about seven (7) minutes per eye. Depending on your prescription, and the amount of correction needed, the laser itself only takes 20-50 seconds to correct your vision. However, you should plan on being in the office for approximately an hour or so to allow for preparation and post-operative instructions.

The majority of patients notice an improvement in their vision immediately after the procedure, but vision can continue to stabilize and improve for a few weeks. It’s common for patients to return to work within a day or two following the surgery. However, you should avoid strenuous activities for at least a week to allow your eyes to heal properly.

The majority of our patients who have LASIK do not need to wear glasses or contacts for their daily activities.

However, some may still prefer to wear glasses for certain tasks, such as reading or driving at night. As mentioned earlier, presbyopia, a natural part of aging that affects near vision, will likely require the use of reading glasses at some point.

Yes! Ideal Eye surgeons perform LASIK on both eyes on the same day. This helps to minimize the recovery period and allows patients to start enjoying their new vision as soon as possible.

Yes, the vision correction from LASIK surgery is permanent.

However, it’s important to note that a person’s eyes can still change naturally over time. For instance, most people will still need reading glasses as they age due to presbyopia.

Choosing the right LASIK surgeon is important to ensure a successful outcome. Here are some factors to consider:

• Experience and Qualifications: Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing LASIK surgeries and holds the necessary certifications and qualifications.
• Consultation: Schedule a consultation to meet the surgeon and the Ideal Eye team. This will give you a chance to ask questions and feel comfortable with .
• Cost: While cost is a consideration, it shouldn’t be the only factor. Sometimes, a lower cost might mean fewer services included or less advanced technology. It’s always recommended to talk to us to first find out if LASIK is right for you.
• Post-Operative Care: Ask about the follow-up care and what is included in the overall cost of the surgery. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to ensure optimal results after the healing process.