Frequently Asked Questions
LASIK is the most advanced procedure in correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. It is one of the most frequently utilized elective procedures and is also an "IRS-eligible" Flexible Spending Account expenditure. Ask your employer for details.
LASIK is technology utilizing the excimer laser. Instead of removing surface tissue, a thin layer of the cornea is lifted to create a protective flap. The inner corneal tissue is gently reshaped and the flap is returned. The corneal flap protects the treated area and allows for much quicker healing.
If you're over the age of 18 and have nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, you may be a good candidate for laser vision correction.
Good LASIK Candidates Must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be in good general health
- Have no health issues affecting the eyes
- Have no active eye conditions which may affect healing
- Have a stable vision prescription for at least one year
Laser Vision Correction is designed to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
Nearsighted, Myopia:
People can typically see things up close, but things far away may appear blurred. People who are nearsighted may find a negative number in the sphere column of their prescription.
Farsightedness, Hyperopia:
Farsighted people can usually see things that are far away better than things that are close. A farsighted prescription will have a positive number under the sphere column.
Astigmatism:
Astigmatism causes a distortion of vision, where a person may experience an overall blurriness. Information regarding an astigmatism is found in the cylinder column. Many people with myopia or hyperopia have some degree of astigmatism
Presbyopia:
LASIK surgeons cannot correct this age-related vision problem; it occurs in most individuals starting in the early 40s and progresses with age. Muscles inside the eye lose flexibility and reading can become difficult.
In 1995, after years of clinical trials, the FDA approved the use of the excimer laser in the U.S. Since its introduction, laser vision correction has passed the rigid safety standards and intensive scrutiny of public health agencies and medical professionals.
Will my procedure be painful?
Patients experience virtually no discomfort during the procedure. Eye drop anesthesia is used to numb the eye prior to the procedure, so no injections are necessary. Immediately after treatment, some patients have reported minor discomfort, like having an eyelash or a dry contact lens in their eye.
When I have LASIK surgery, will I be able to experience the results right away?
Most patients say this is an extremely memorable moment in their lives. You will have improved vision immediately after your laser vision correction. The majority of patients are able to go to work the next day. Your vision will continue to improve as your eyes heal and adjust to their new shape.
How long will my LASIK procedure take?
The procedure time is between five and fifteen minutes. Patients should allot approximately two hours on the day of their treatment.
Find out what you need to know:
The links below may provide you with additional information regarding laser vision correction. These LASIK resources are for educational purposes. We want you to be absolutely confident with all your decisions regarding LASIK surgery. We want to provide you with helpful information, useful tools and educational links.
Find helpful information within these sites:
Provides: LASIK eye surgery education, information on FDA-approved lasers, laser statistics, and FAQs.
Public information site for the American Academy of Ophthalmology: eye health, eye safety and surgical solutions.
Provides accurate information about laser eye surgery, to promote active physician/patient discussion.