Refractive errors — including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism — are the most common eye condition in the United States, affecting over 150 million Americans each and every day. They result in blurred vision and have a negative impact on your ability to live a quality and happy life.
Although a refractive error can be a nuisance in one’s life, there are treatment options available that improve vision and correct refractive errors. While glasses and contact lenses are the more traditional option, recent technological advancements have opened the door to new options.
What Are the Most Common Questions About LASIK?
Today, many people have accepted LASIK eye surgery as a preferred option when living with a refractive error. If this sounds like you or you want to learn more about the procedure, then you likely have a ton of questions regarding what it is, how it works, why it’s worth it, and more!
Don’t worry, we’re going to answer a lot of those questions below, so let’s get started!
Can LASIK surgery correct a refractive error?
A refractive error is characterized by an irregularly-shaped cornea, which either focuses light in front of the retina (myopia) or behind the retina (hyperopia). While this results in blurred vision, LASIK surgery can reshape the cornea and improve the way light is focused onto the retina.
How safe and common is LASIK eye surgery?
LASIK eye surgery is an extremely safe and effective surgery that was approved by the FDA back in 1999. Over the past 20+ years, it has been performed over 10 million times with over 90% of patients experiencing a near-perfect vision. Not only that, but the technology is improving.
Does LASIK laser eye surgery hurt?
Many people believe laser eye surgery would be painful, but that’s not the case with LASIK. You’re given numbing eye drops prior to the start of the procedure and while you may feel a slight bit of pressure during the procedure, it’ll be over well before it becomes overwhelming.
How long does the LASIK procedure take?
For most patients, the LASIK procedure will take anywhere from 20-30 minutes. The actual procedure takes much less, but a majority of that time is prep work. In fact, the surgeon only uses the laser for under a minute. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis (in-office).
Is LASIK surgery permanent or temporary?
During the LASIK surgery procedure, your surgeon will remove a thin layer of the cornea to reshape it. While this improves vision, it’s a permanent solution and there’s no going back once you’ve had it. Don’t worry, that’s not necessarily a negative thing — but it’s worth knowing.
Can I drive myself home after the procedure is done?
After the procedure is done, patients generally experience blurred vision for at least three hours. With that said, patients should be prepared to have someone drive them home after the surgery. Don’t worry, you should notice a difference and improvement in vision by the following day.
How long is the recovery and healing period after the LASIK procedure?
While most LASIK patients experience improved vision in as little as a few hours and certainly by the next day, the entire healing process generally takes 3-6 months. During that time, your vision will continue to improve and you’ll eventually end up with a near-perfect vision, if not better.
How much does the laser vision correction procedure cost?
The LASIK procedure usually costs anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for each eye, but there are a lot of different factors that play a role in that number — including the surgeon, insurance, the technology used, and your current eye health. Every surgery is different and so is every cost.
Who isn’t a quality LASIK candidate?
One of the more unfortunate things about LASIK surgery is that not everyone is a good candidate. Some people who might not qualify for LASIK include those with thin corneal tissue, elders with presbyopia, those on certain medications, or those with fluctuating prescriptions.
How long does it take to notice improved vision?
Many LASIK patients report improved vision later that day and a strong majority report far better vision the following day. Over 90% of patients will experience 20/20 vision between 3-6 months after the procedure, while 99% of patients will report improved vision in one way or another.
What are the risks and side effects of laser eye surgery?
Much like any other surgery performed today, LASIK does come with some risks and side effects. For example, many patients experience dry eyes and glares for a few weeks up to a few months post-surgery. You can also experience regression, flap problems, and more.
How many follow-up visits are required with LASIK?
Most surgeons are going to want you back in the office the following day for a brief follow-up. Over the next couple of months, you’ll likely have several more follow-ups as the eye doctor monitors the healing and recovery process. After that, your annual exam will likely be enough.
What are the other popular types of laser eye surgery?
If you’re not a good candidate for LASIK or you’re searching for an alternative, you have plenty of options — including photorefractive keratectomy, radial keratotomy, astigmatic keratotomy, automated lamellar keratoplasty, laser thermal keratoplasty, and conductive keratoplasty.
Will I need to wear glasses or contact lenses after LASIK?
One of the beautiful things about the LASIK procedure is most patients won’t be required to wear glasses or contact lenses again. The need for reading glasses might arise in the future due to presbyopia (caused by normal aging of eyes), but other than that you’re free from a prescription.
If You Have More Questions to Ask, Contact Us Today!
The LASIK eye surgery procedure can be a scary process if you’re left to do it alone. Luckily, you don’t have to when you have Milwaukee Eye Surgeons by your side. Whether you think you’re a good candidate or want to learn more, don’t hesitate to contact us right away!
Together, we’ll ensure you have all the information and resources you need to make a smart and healthy decision for your eyes. With Milwaukee Eye Surgeons, your eyes are in the best hands.
