Q: What is LASIK?
A. LASIK is a procedure that improves vision by changing the shape of the cornea with a laser and is a very effective treatment for a wide range of vision problems. LASIK continues to grow in popularity and is the number one elective surgery in the country.
Q. Are there patient financing companies available that can help me afford the cost of LASIK?
A: We have selected CareCredit as our patient financing company. We feel they treat out eye care patients with the utmost respect and genuinely try to help solve any issues that may arise.
Q. Is LASIK painful?
A: Most patients experience NO pain but some experience a mild discomfort just after the procedure. Within 24 hours and solid rest, most LASIK patients feel no pain.
Q. Why do people have LASIK surgery?
A. Research has shown that there are four main reasons that people choose to have LASIK.
They are:
- Life simplification: No longer having to deal with glasses or contacts
- Independence: Freedom from dependence on glasses and/or contacts
- Performance: Ability to perform better in sports-related activities
- Ability to see 24/7 when it counts: Better vision for all occasions (e.g., at a play, evening out, playing golf)
Q. What results can a person hope to achieve?
A. LASIK has proven overwhelmingly successful in reducing dependence on glasses and contact lenses. Clinical studies show that most LASIK patients (with mild to moderate prescriptions) have the potential to achieve 20/20 vision or near 20/20 vision. Generally, this means they no longer need or have reduced their dependence on glasses or contacts to drive, play sports, watch movies and TV, or participate in careers requiring excellent vision.
Q. Who is a good candidate for LASIK?
A. LASIK can treat a very broad range of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The best way to determine who is a good candidate is a thorough eye exam. Candidates must be 21 years of age or older, in good general health, and have good eye health with no diseases such as cataracts or glaucoma.
Q. How long will the LASIK procedure take?
A. The LASIK laser vision correction procedure usually takes less than 15 minutes in the operating room. The actual laser time is approximately 1 minute.
Q. Are there any risks associated with LASIK?
A. Some potential complications include conditions such as dryness, night glare, under or over-correction, and loss of best-corrected vision. The risks of surgery should be discussed fully with the doctor prior to the procedure. Additionally, proper post-operative care helps to identify and address any potential healing complications.
