LASIK (Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a 15-minute laser vision correction procedure, which reduces dependence on corrective lenses or eliminates the need for corrective lenses altogether—depending on patient-specific variables. In the procedure, the surgeon lifts a tiny flap of tissue on the surface of the eye in order to reshape the underlying cornea through use of a computer-guided excimer laser. The surgeon then repositions the flap of tissue over the reshaped cornea. LASIK is a surgical procedure that is capable of correcting a wide range of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.

The goal of any refractive surgical procedure is to reduce or eliminate your dependence on corrective lenses-so that you may freely enjoy activities without the encumbrance of glasses or contacts. Our commitment to you is that we will not perform laser vision correction on you or anyone we feel does not have a good possibility of achieving independence from glasses and contacts. There are three main variables that will influence vision results: a thorough pre-operative evaluation to determine whether you are a good candidate for LASIK, the experience of your LASIK surgeon/team, and the equipment utilized. To ensure the best outcome, it is critical that you select your surgical team wisely. Honest evaluation, surgical experience, and state-of-the-art technology are crucial to the end result.

As with any surgery, there are risks. Fortunately, however, the risks are low and the patient satisfaction rate is high. The informed consent will outline the risks more thoroughly before you decide to have the procedure. Potential risks may include the following: Halos – Some patients will notice glare, halos, or starburst around objects in low-light conditions. For the vast majority, these symptoms are temporary. However, others will continue to experience them for several months or longer. During your preoperative evaluation, we will determine whether or not you are at high risk for seeing long-term halos. Dry eyes – There is increased dryness of the eyes typically for several months following LASIK, though some patients may experience dryness for a longer period of time. It is important to use lubricating drops frequently. If the eyes remain dry for a prolonged period, there are other drops or techniques that can help. Again, your preoperative evaluation will help determine whether or not you are a candidate for experiencing dry eyes. Infection – This is an extremely rare occurrence, with a 1 in 2000-3000 chance (similar to any eye surgery). Fortunately, as the LASIK technique has developed over the years and proven to be of great benefit to millions of patients nationwide, firmly established protocols now exist that minimize the risk of infection dramatically.

We perform LASIK eye surgery on both eyes during the same day in the overwhelming majority of our patients. There are pros and cons to this approach, but most people would prefer to minimize any postoperative discomfort and time off from work.

The procedure is painless. Your eye is anesthetized with numbing eye drops. You will be awake and comfortable throughout the procedure. Most people experience four to six hours of mild irritation after their LASIK procedure and can return to work the next day.

The cost of vision correction varies among practices, based on surgeon experience, technology, and what the center includes in the fee. We are not the least expensive provider. We have invested heavily in staff training and technology. Our advanced laser and diagnostic technology are second to none. This investment is extremely important to surgical results and our patients tell us they can see the difference. We encourage you to visit other laser centers and compare. It’s only natural to want to get the best price, but remember: Quality, personal service, attention to detail, and results are extremely important when it comes to your eyes. Your vision is one of your most important assets.

LASIK is an elective procedure, which means that the surgery is optional. As a result, only a few insurance companies pay for all or part of vision correction procedures. You can check with your plan administrator, or we will be happy to make a copy of your insurance card and check coverage for you. In some cases, the fees can be covered by medical flex/cafeteria plans that allow pretax dollars to be set aside. Please ask your employer if they offer this type of benefit. Vision correction may also be tax deductible as a medical expense (check with your financial advisor). If you do not have insurance coverage, we do offer affordable payment plans. It is easy to apply online and receive credit approval before you schedule an appointment.