LASIK Surgery

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) eye surgery is the best known and most commonly performed laser refractive surgery to correct vision problems.

The goal of LASIK surgery is to permanently improve your vision.

What is LASIK surgery?

LASIK is an elective surgery performed by an ophthalmologist (an eye surgeon) on adults.

This corneal refractive surgery changes the shape of the cornea and the need to depend on glasses to see clearly. Over time and with lasers improving efficiency outcomes have improved and lessened complications. LASIK is a safe and effective surgery. This remarkable surgery improves your life and takes less than 30 minutes.

LASIK surgery is a two-step process. First, a thin flap is created on the cornea. An excimer laser—a type of laser that emits ultraviolet light at a specific wavelength—is utilized to remove corneal tissue and reshape your cornea. Second, once the excimer laser work is completed, the flap is put back into place, smoothed with no wrinkles or debris and allowed to dry in place.

LASIK consultation

LASIK is for qualifying individuals who have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. People who have a stable vision prescription, are in good general health, and have no other eye problems are likely to qualify for LASIK.

Factors that can disqualify you from LASIK include prescription instability, taking certain medications, pre-existing diseases and eye conditions.

To find out if you qualify for LASIK, you will have a consult with your eye doctor prior to scheduling of surgery. Your eye surgeon will go over any risks and current state of your vision, your health history, and vision goals will be reviewed in the consult to determine if LASIK is a good option for you.

Frequently asked questions about LASIK surgery

Is it going to be painful post-surgery?

The pressure on the eye from the first laser may leaving the eye feeling slightly aggravated initially post-surgery. However, overall pain is minimal.

How long does LASIK last?

LASIK surgery has been done since the mid-1990s and, thanks to the advancement of lasers, risk of complications is very low. Regressions are rare. A lot of data shows the procedure is one of the most successful and stable post-op.

Do you need to come in for eye exams after LASIK?

Yes. Post-op glaucoma could develop in anyone. Whether a LASIK patient or not, it's important to check for retinal tears, detachments or eye issues with all patients as they get older.

Will I need contacts/glasses after surgery?

Everyone wants LASIK to last forever or to have perfect vision after surgery. However, while the goal is to have perfect vision, eye surgeons say 20/40 vision is the ideal goal. You may still need contact lenses or glasses for select activities as you get older.

Is LASIK surgery safe and successful?

Overwhelmingly yes. Research indicates a patient satisfaction rate over 95 percent and 99 percent success rate in achieving 20/40 vision following LASIK surgery.