LASIK
LASIK Eye Surgery in the San Francisco Bay Area
LASIK Eye Surgery
The Safest, Most Popular Elective Surgery with Patient Satisfaction Rate Above 98%
We know how overwhelming it can be to find the right LASIK provider. Choosing a qualified surgeon you feel simultaneously comfortable and confident with can be challenging.
At LaserVue Eye Center, we make it our first priority to give you peace of mind about every part of your experience and your results. Our surgeons’ expertise and skill in using the latest FDA-approved technology in laser eye care allow us to provide a safe treatment designed to your vision needs. Overall, we strive to continuously give our patients the best possible vision safely, quickly and effectively.
What is All-Laser LASIK?
LASIK – the acronym for Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis, refers to a procedure in which a laser reshapes the the cornea to enhance vision. During this eye surgery, a femtosecond laser creates a thin flap from the cornea’s surface. Significantly, this newer laser takes the place of the earlier microkeratome blade that is used in traditional LASIK for the purpose of creating the corneal flap.
Afterwards, this flap is lifted and an excimer laser then reshapes the underlying corneal tissue in order to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or astigmatism. The corneal flap is then set back into place without sutures, and once the corneal tissue is corrected, the cornea will consequently focus light more precisely on the retina.
As a result of LASIK, images will be seen more sharply. Most patients notice a dramatic improvement immediately after their procedure. Your results should only improve during the following few weeks.
Our Patients Love their LASIK Vision Correction
We are proud to have helped thousands of patients significantly improve their lives, by improving their vision both through LASIK eye surgery and other vision correction services. However, don’t take our word for it! Instead, hear what our patients have to say.
“I had Wavefront LASIK and I couldn’t be more pleased with the results! Dr. Bansal and his staff are wonderful – very professional and friendly. My vision is better now than it was with contact lenses and glasses. I wish I would have had LASIK sooner.”
— Jeffrey Kuhn MD, Anesthesiologist
Had Wavefront LASIK at LaserVue Eye Center
Travis & Sophia
Adam R.
Edward S.
Angela V.
Luke I.
Thanh H.
Doug McConnell
Susan Roesgen
May K.
Maria S.
Michelle S.
Meredith R.
Improved Vision
Self-Confidence
Immediate Results
What are the benefits of All-Laser LASIK?
- Life-changing and transformational
- Most people who wear glasses or contact lenses are candidates
- Virtually painless and usually a 15 minute procedure
- Fast recovery time overall
- In comparison, safer than contact lenses
- Treats nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism
Dr. Jay Bansal
Your Trusted LASIK Surgeon in Northern California
Jay Bansal, M.D. specializes in LASIK, SMILE, PRK, Cataract Surgery, Lens Implants & other vision correction options. Dr. Bansal is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.
Dr. Bansal was among the first surgeons in California to perform both the LASIK & SMILE procedures. Additionally, Dr. Bansal is a Certified Surgeon Trainer on both the VISX excimer & Intralase® femtosecond laser systems.
Dr. Bansal is dedicated to helping you achieve excellent vision correction results. As LASIK specialists, LaserVue surgeons and staff work hard to ensure your safety, comfort, and amazing outcome.
LASIK Safety
Above all, we are committed to your safety. With this in mind, our dedicated eye surgeons and highly-trained staff work with you personally to ensure you receive the procedure that is ideal for you. When it comes to your eyes, we don’t make compromises.
To read more about LaserVue’s safety standards, see our safety information.
Advanced LASIK Technology
We use the most advanced platforms, including TENEO, Wavefront, Pupil-tracking, and All-Laser technologies, in order to ensure your best possible vision.
Experienced LASIK Surgeons
To illustrate our years of experience, our fellowship-trained and board-certified ophthalmologists have performed tens of thousands of procedures.
Proven Results
Thousands of satisfied patients improved their vision at LaserVue Eye Center with LASIK eye surgery. As a result, we have an undoubtedly outstanding track record.
Now Offering the Newest Excimer Laser Approved for LASIK Surgery in 17 Years
LaserVue Eye Center is proud to be the first facility in Northern California to offer the latest FDA-approved excimer laser: Bausch + Lomb TENEO™!
2 Year Financing
The cost of LASIK should be affordable for everyone. With up to 24-month financing, you can make payments that work for you.
Flex Spending
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) through your employer, you can save on LASIK.
Cost vs. Risk
As with every surgery, the cost and the risks of LASIK should be carefully considered beforehand.
How Much Does LASIK Cost?
We know that cost is important to your vision journey. When you visit LaserVue, we provide you with all the knowledge you need to make decisions about your eyesight.
By accessing our patient education resources, you can learn what affects your price, what to look out for when seeking a surgeon, and our financing and price-assurance policies. In order to learn more about your eye surgery and what it will cost, visit our LASIK cost page.
Don’t forget, you may save thousands of dollars by ditching your glasses and contacts, which come with costs every year!
Who Can Get LASIK?
Understanding Candidacy Requirements
LaserVue works with our patients individually to ensure LASIK is the right choice for them. For your best results, it is in your best interest to guarantee you’re a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery. Importantly, our general candidacy guidelines include:
Are you over 18 years of age?
In order to be a candidate for refractive vision surgery, you must be an adult aged 18 or older.
No history of eye disease?
Because eye disease can cause serious complications, please speak with one of our experienced surgeons to be sure LASIK is right for you.
Do you have a stable prescription?
Importantly, some volatile prescriptions can prevent you from being a candidate. If you are unsure, then speak with one of our experienced doctors to find out.
Are you in overall good health?
Your overall general health is important. Above all, your safety is our primary concern.
LASIK FAQs:
Everything You Need to Know About Laser Eye Surgery
What is LASIK Eye Surgery?
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.
What results can I expect from LASIK Eye Surgery?
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.
Is LASIK surgery right for me?
The best way to determine if you are a candidate for LASIK is by an individual evaluation by our doctors. At that time we will verify whether you are a good candidate for LASIK and answer any questions you may have. We will encourage you to understand the procedure, the risks and benefits, and to harbor realistic expectations.
In general, a good LASIK candidate is at least 18 years old, has healthy corneas, and has maintained a stable eye prescription for the last 12 months. People with certain medical conditions or women who are pregnant or nursing may not be good candidates.
We believe that not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery. When it comes to your eyes, being discriminating is appropriate. Only careful examination of your eyes and your individual case and needs will determine whether LASIK is right for you.
Isn’t all laser vision correction the same?
No. Many of the discount LASIK centers want you to believe that LASIK should be purchased like a commodity, and that surgeon experience, laser and diagnostic technology, and follow-up care do not matter. Laser vision correction will affect the way you see for the rest of your life. You should make your decision to have laser vision carefully, not quickly. We encourage you to visit other laser centers and compare them to us. Our website provides detailed information about our surgeons, our laser technology, our advanced diagnostic technology, and what you should expect for the money you spend.
Is LASIK painful?
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.
Will I need reading glasses after LASIK?
Most normally sighted patients require readers in their mid-forties. This is caused by the normal weakening of the focusing muscles of the eye, known as presbyopia, which usually starts around the age of 40—45. This condition occurs with or without LASIK. Those patients who currently have bifocals will still need reading glasses after the surgery unless they opt for a treatment plan called monovision, wherein one eye is corrected for distance and the other for near vision.
Will my vision remain stable long after the procedure?
The vision correction is permanent. However, your vision may change naturally with time and LASIK does not affect visual conditions that may develop with age. Also, LASIK does not prevent presbyopia and the eventual need for reading glasses. Depending on the cause, retreatment may be a viable solution to later vision changes, and other treatment options also exist.
How much should I pay for laser vision correction?
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.
Should I be nervous about the procedure?
Eyes and vision are very precious. It is perfectly natural to be nervous about having the procedure. Much of this comes from fear of the unknown. Dr. Bansal and our staff spend a great deal of time describing exactly what’s involved in the procedure and what sounds and sights you will experience. We will “walk you through the process” to make you as comfortable as possible.
It’s always wise not to rush into something, especially when it comes to something as precious as your vision. We encourage you to bring friends or family members with you to your laser vision evaluation so that we can educate them, as well as you, and answer any questions they might have. We are very proud of our surgical techniques and state-of-the-art technology.
Can I have cataract surgery after LASIK?
Yes. It is normal to develop cataracts as one gets older and the cataract surgery procedure does not change. However, your lens implant will be calculated using a different formula. LaserVue surgeons have performed cataract surgery on many patients with previous laser vision correction.
What is an excimer laser, and how does it work?
The excimer laser produces a high-energy, cold, ultraviolet light beam in pulses and delivers the pulses to a surface of the eye’s cornea. These pulses break the bond between molecules and tissue cells so that a controlled amount of tissue can literally be vaporized away to reshape the cornea—one microscopic layer at a time. The excimer laser is computer-controlled and programmed to custom treat each individual eye with a high degree of precision. For most cases, the thickness of the layer removed by the laser is less than the thickness of a human hair.
What are the risks associated with LASIK Eye Surgery?
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.
How important is the choice of surgeon?
In laser vision correction, complications rarely occur. But, when they do, they are usually related to the surgeon’s experience and technique. Complications appear to be greatly reduced by the surgeon’s experience, training, and meticulous attention to detail. Error rates that are less than one percent with a skilled LASIK surgeon can rise rapidly in less experienced hands. LaserVue surgeons have helped train many LASIK surgeons and co-managing doctors through proctoring, lectures, and seminars. Additionally, Dr. Jay Bansal at LaserVue has designed several innovative LASIK instruments and a popular LASIK surgical nomogram. Because of our vast experience, hundreds of doctors, surgeons, and other healthcare workers have trusted their eyes to Dr. Bansal and Dr. Singh. We are routinely asked to provide second opinions for LASIK complications experienced by patients from other providers.
It is crucial to select your surgeon wisely. Our goal at LaserVue is to communicate clearly to our patients what they can expect during their laser experience and what their results are likely to be. We pledge to you, always, our honest evaluation and complete dedication.
Can I have both eyes done at once?
We perform LASIK 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.
Will my eyes look different after LASIK?
No. Your eyes will look exactly the same.
What is Monovision?
If you are presbyopic, monovision is an option to help correct both your distance and near vision. The monovision procedure corrects the focus of one eye for distance vision and the other eye for near vision. Monovision is a compromise of both distance and near vision. Depth perception is also affected. For people with high visual demands, like sports or constant near work (i.e., reading), we recommend full distance correction with glasses for near vision. A trial period with contact lenses or glasses may help determine if monovision would be a good option for you.
Do I need to have my contacts out prior to my procedure?
Yes. We recommend you discontinue soft lens wear one week prior to your procedure, and a minimum of three to four weeks for soft toric/gas permeable lenses.
Will my insurance cover LASIK surgery?
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.
When can I drive after LASIK?
The majority of patients are able to drive themselves the next day after the procedure. The Department of Motor Vehicles usually grants unrestricted driving privileges to individuals who possess 20/40 or better vision. More than 90 percent of all patients who undergo LASIK surgery have this level of vision or better by the first day after their procedure. Please note, that one should not drive unless their vision is better than 20/40 and they are comfortable with their visual acuity.
What’s the next step?
Learn More About LASIK
LASIK Doctors
Jay Bansal, MD
Your LASIK & Cataract Surgeon in Northern California
Stephanie Wangyu, MD
Ophthalmologist
Hannah Walsh, OD, MSc
Doctor of Optometry
Francesca Sefton, OD
Doctor of Optometry
Ready to SEE a Change?
Helping you to achieve your personal best vision is our mission at LaserVue Eye Center. Wondering where to start?
Please complete the fields on the right to schedule a free consultation and discuss your options with our eye doctors! You can also Call 1-800-527-3745 to speak with our staff.
Related Eye Care Services at LaserVue
Not sure if LASIK is right for you? Our surgeons offer every leading vision correction option so we can match you with the ideal procedure:
- PRK Laser Vision Correction — The preferred alternative for patients with thin corneas, dry eyes, or active careers that put flap-based procedures at risk.
- SMILE Eye Surgery — A minimally invasive, flapless laser procedure with less post-op dry eye compared to LASIK.
- EVO ICL Implantable Lenses — Additive implantable lenses for patients with high prescriptions or thin corneas who are not LASIK candidates.
- Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) — Permanent lens replacement that eliminates glasses and eliminates future cataract risk.
- Cataract Surgery — Premium lens implants that restore clear vision and reduce dependence on glasses after cataract removal.
- Dry Eye Treatment — Addressing chronic dry eye before LASIK improves surgical outcomes and comfort.
LaserVue Eye Center performs LASIK and all vision correction procedures at our San Francisco and Santa Rosa locations. Schedule your free LASIK consultation.