LASIK eye surgery (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is currently one of the most frequently performed elective procedures in North America. Millions of people have safely and successfully chosen it to correct their low, moderate, or high prescriptions.
This procedure involves using an excimer laser to reshape the cornea to correct a patient’s vision error. This reduces, and sometimes eliminates, the need for glasses and contact lenses.
Not everyone is a good LASIK candidate. Those with severe nearsightedness or farsightedness and those with uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disease are not likely to be eligible for LASIK. However, you may be a good LASIK candidate if you are in good general health, are at least 18 years old, are free from eye diseases including cataracts, and have a diagnosis of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
To determine your eligibility for LASIK, request your complimentary consultation today with us. Our doctors will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK, or if a different vision procedure may be right for you.
LASIK is an outpatient surgery. The procedure usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes to perform by an ophthalmologist (surgeon).
Before the procedure, topical anesthetic drops are used to numb the eyes to prevent any discomfort. Medication may also be approved to help the patient relax. After the drops are used, a lid speculum is used to keep the eyes from closing and a femtosecond laser creates a thin flap over the cornea. Some corneal tissue is removed using a specialized excimer laser. The LASIK process helps light focus on the retina, which improves vision.
Each LASIK procedure is customized to meet the vision goals of each patient. The type of LASIK surgery will differ slightly for those with different vision challenges.
Once the cornea is reshaped, the flap is replaced over the tissue that was removed. The cornea will then heal naturally.
In the LASIK procedure, surgeons use highly specialized lasers called excimer lasers to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors.
Femtosecond Lasers are used at Vantage Eye Center to create the initial flap. These lasers are the pinnacle of laser technology development. This laser creates the flap to extremely precise dimensions, helping it conform to your eye’s unique anatomy and ensuring the flap fits back in place securely.
Wavefront-guided lasers are used in LASIK to allow surgeons to map defects in the optical system of the eye. These devices show how light travels through the eye and help to produce a custom LASIK treatment plan for each patient.
A German Engineered Wavelight Allegretto Wave Eye-Q laser is then used to fix each eye’s visual imperfections. It is highly specialized and capable of preserving the natural curvature of the cornea, which prevents unwanted side effects including poor night vision or halos.
Following a LASIK procedure, your eyes may feel a bit irritated or may be watery for a few hours. It is normal to have blurry vision following the surgery, which typically improves within a day or two. The majority of patients feel comfortable after taking a short nap with protective eye shields to keep from rubbing their eyes.
Most patients will notice their vision improving significantly within a few days of having a LASIK procedure. It is a good idea to get plenty of rest and follow your doctor’s instructions about any medications prescribed. Refrain from rubbing your eyes or participating in vigorous physical activity for at least a week. Some doctors recommend taking a day or two off from work but many people can return to work the next day.
We’re committed to ensuring any patient who wants corrective eye surgery can afford it. We’ll walk you through financing options that work for your budget to ensure that you can get laser eye surgery without breaking the bank.
At Vantage Eye Center, patients have a variety of ways to help make LASIK affordable — ask one of our patient counselors about custom payment options.
The LASIK procedure is often considered an elective or cosmetic surgery, which means many insurance companies may not cover LASIK. Most patients end up paying for the majority (if not all) of the procedure out of pocket. It’s still very much worth asking your insurance company about your options and if your policy includes a benefit for advanced vision correction. Each person’s needs and circumstances are different.
Many employers offer flexible spending accounts to help offset medical expenses. These accounts may allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for certain medical costs, including procedures like LASIK.
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