LASIK FAQs
Are laser eye surgery procedures covered by insurance?
Few insurance policies cover Laser Vision Correction, however, we would be happy to check yours when you come in for a consult. Remember patient financing plans are also available.
Is there any pain involved with LASIK?
Because we make every effort to make sure the eye is numb, patients tell us they feel only slight discomfort, not pain during the procedure. After the procedure, most people report a slightly irritated eye for a few hours, similar to an eyelash getting in your eye. But pain is subjective, and when you learn more about the procedure you’ll form your own opinion of what to expect.
Has anyone ever gone blind from a Laser Vision Correction Procedure?
To this date, there have been zero reported cases of a total loss of vision.
Are there any side effects with Laser Vision Correction?
As with any type of surgery, side effects and complications can occur. All potential side effects and complications will be discussed further at the time of the Laser Vision Correction consultation.
Is Laser Vision Correction for everyone?
Laser Vision Correction is not necessarily for everyone. The best way to determine your candidacy is with a proper screening and thorough evaluation.
I am very busy at work. What type of time commitment is needed to have LASIK?
This is a state-of-the-art procedure, which requires minimal time for the patient. The actual procedure lasts under 10 minutes per eye. Most patients can go back to work the very next day.
What if I blink?
Don’t worry, a small retaining device (a small speculum) will be used to keep your lids open and prevent blinking. There is no way you will be able to blink and hurt yourself or your visual outcome.
Can both eyes be done at the same time?
In the majority of all cases, both eyes are done at the same time. But you may elect to have one eye done at a time.
What kind of anesthesia is used during the treatment?
Sometimes an oral medication is used to help with relaxation and numbing eye drops are used. No intravenous drugs are used.
Will my eyes be patched?
No! Your eyes will not be patched after the LASIK operation. You will wear eye shields at bedtime for the first night after the procedure for protection.
How soon after surgery will I see well?
The eye drop medications cause some blurring, also there is extra water within the cornea after the LASIK treatment, but most patients notice a dramatic improvement even as they leave the office. But each patient is different.
Will my eyes look different after the LASIK operation?
No. Your eyes will look exactly the same.
Do I need to use eye drops after the procedure?
You will use medicated eye drops for 1 week after your treatment, and artificial tears are recommended for up to 1 month. On occasion, an eye drop to increase tear production (RESTASIS) may be prescribed.
As always, avoid getting soap or water directly into your eyes. Obviously, after Laser Vision Correction you will be on an antibiotic and soothing drop for one week. No swimming for at least 3 days, ideally for 2 weeks, and no eye-rubbing for two weeks. Showering with water in the face, shampooing hair, eyes closed is fine. Eye makeup in 2 days but, preferably, a week.
When can I drive after the procedure?
You should not drive on the day of the treatment. After that, you may drive when you feel confident that your visual acuity and eye comfort allow you to drive safely. Almost all of our patients are able to drive the next day, they achieve a vision equal to or better than driving license requirements.
How soon can I use eye makeup?
We strongly recommend that you purchase new eye makeup, specifically mascara, to avoid potential infection. You may resume wearing eye makeup starting 2 days, preferably a week after your treatment.
How soon after the treatment can I exercise?
Non-contact sports can be resumed as soon as you feel capable. Eye protection is recommended for racquet sports or rough sports where there is a risk of being hit in the eye.
Is the effect of LASIK treatment permanent?
Yes. Following an initial healing period of three to six months, the effect of the treatment is life-long. Rarely, a minimal regression might occur.
What are the most common side effects?
The most common side effects of LASIK operation are fluctuating vision (which only lasts for the first few weeks), night glare (which typically lasts for the first few weeks), and dry eye, which can be made worse by laser eye surgery.
