Find expert answers to your questions about vision correction procedures, including LASIK, PRK, and more. At Specialty Vision, our dedicated refractive eye surgeons ensure you understand your options for clearer vision.
No, most patients report little to no pain during LASIK. Since anesthetic drops are applied, you will not feel pain during the procedure. Some patients mention a feeling of pressure when the corneal flap is created, but any discomfort tends to be mild and temporary.
Many patients worry about blinking or making small eye movements during LASIK. Here’s the thing: modern technology offers precise tracking systems that account for even the smallest movement. A special holder keeps your eyelids open while the laser adjusts automatically to any slight shifts. In rare instances, your procedure might briefly pause to ensure your comfort, so there’s no need to stress about this aspect.
The actual laser treatment for each eye takes only about 20 to 50 seconds, depending on your prescription and the correction required. Including the pre-operative preparations and post-operative examinations, you can expect to spend around 2.5 hours at our center on the day of surgery.
Yes, LASIK has been performed for nearly two decades, and it has an impressive safety record. Millions have enjoyed improved vision thanks to this procedure. Although any surgery carries some risks, complications are quite rare when performed by experienced surgeons using the latest technology. Our refractive eye surgeon takes every measure to minimize risks by conducting thorough pre-operative evaluations and following strict post-operative care protocols.
Like any surgical treatment, LASIK can come with temporary side effects. Here’s a list of the most common ones:
These effects typically resolve with proper lubrication and follow-up care. If you ever have concerns during recovery, our refractive eye surgeon is available to make sure your healing continues smoothly.
The precision of modern vision correction procedures is truly remarkable. With advanced laser systems and comprehensive evaluations, most patients achieve excellent vision outcomes. In a small number of cases, a minor enhancement or retreatment might be advised if your eyes do not fully reach the desired correction on the first pass. Such adjustments are discussed thoroughly with you during follow-up visits.
If your vision changes over time or if an initial procedure does not entirely meet your visual needs, many vision correction procedures, including PRK and LASIK, can be safely repeated or enhanced. A follow-up assessment by our refractive eye surgeon will help determine if a touch-up procedure is appropriate for your situation.
Understanding whether you are a good candidate for vision correction is the first important step toward clearer sight. Generally, ideal candidates are over 18 years old, have a stable eyeglass prescription for at least one year (or two years in some evaluations), and are in good overall health. Our refractive eye surgeon conducts a thorough evaluation that includes examining your prescription details, corneal health, and visual goals to ensure the chosen procedure is right for you.
Specific criteria for the most common procedures include:
Most procedures are performed on adults, ensuring that your eyes have reached maturity.
A stable vision prescription is essential for lasting results.
Clear corneas with no active infections or diseases make for ideal surgical conditions.
If you experience conditions such as dry eyes, thin corneas, or have an unstable prescription, our refractive eye surgeon will carefully discuss alternative strategies tailored to your unique needs.
After your vision correction procedure, most patients experience rapid improvements and a swift return to their daily activities. However, the recovery course can vary from person to person. Our refractive eye surgeon provides clear, personalized instructions to help you feel at ease during your post-surgery healing.
Many patients notice clearer vision by the next day, though complete stabilization might take a few days to several weeks.
You will need assistance (a ride home) on the day of surgery. Most patients are allowed to drive on the day following the surgery, provided your vision is confirmed as safe by our refractive eye surgeon.
You are advised to avoid rubbing your eyes, wearing eye makeup, and engaging in strenuous activities such as swimming or heavy lifting for a specified period. Using artificial tears helps keep your eyes moist and comfortable.
Contact our experienced team today to schedule your consultation with our skilled refractive eye surgeon. Discover the best vision correction options tailored just for you!
Regular check-ups are essential. Typically, you will be seen the day after surgery, then at one week, one month, and sometimes longer intervals to track healing and ensure the best possible results.
One common question we receive is whether your vision can change after a vision correction procedure. Although LASIK and similar surgeries have made it possible for many to enjoy stable, clear vision for years, factors such as natural aging, presbyopia, or conditions like cataracts can influence vision later in life. It’s important to remember that while the surgical correction of the cornea itself is long-lasting, regular eye exams remain a key part of maintaining overall eye health.
Our refractive eye surgeon suggests monitoring changes with regular evaluations. If your vision changes, a minor touch-up treatment or additional corrective measures may be recommended to keep your eyes performing at their best.
While LASIK is widely known, there are several vision correction procedures available to match your specific needs and eye conditions. Each technique holds its own benefits, and our refractive eye surgeon will help determine which option is best for you.
This procedure creates a thin corneal flap and then reshapes the underlying tissue. It is a popular choice due to its fast recovery and minimal discomfort.
Instead of creating a flap, PRK removes the outer epithelial layer of the cornea before reshaping. PRK is often recommended for patients with chronic dry eyes or those with thinner corneas.
This newer procedure involves removing a small piece of tissue from the cornea through a small incision, offering an alternative with potentially fewer side effects in some cases.
For patients who may not be ideal candidates for laser surgery, advanced implantable lenses provide another option for vision correction without reshaping the cornea.
If you have questions about which approach might best suit your lifestyle and visual requirements, please reach out to our office for a personalized consultation. Our refractive eye surgeon is committed to guiding you every step of the way.
Cost is naturally an important consideration when exploring vision correction procedures. The total expense of a procedure like LASIK or PRK can vary based on several factors, including the specifics of your prescription, eye health, and the technology used. Our refractive eye surgeon outlines all the details during your consultation to provide you with a clear understanding of the investment required.
Insurance coverage for vision correction procedures also varies depending on your plan. While many insurance providers do not cover elective refractive surgery, some plans may offer partial coverage or financing options. Many centers now provide flexible payment plans, including no-interest or extended payment options, to help make these procedures more accessible. If you have questions about cost or financing, do not hesitate to call our office for personalized guidance.
Contact our experienced team today to schedule your consultation with our skilled refractive eye surgeon. Discover the best vision correction options tailored just for you!
Get answers to your questions on LASIK, PRK, and other vision correction procedures. Contact Specialty Vision to find skilled eye surgeons near you.
