LASIK Surgery FAQ
"LASIK" is an abbreviation for "laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis". LASIK is used to correct refractive errors of the eye using laser technology. It can greatly improve the vision of people with nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. The ideal candidate for this procedure has a nearsighted refractive error of -1 or greater, or a farsighted refractive error of +1 to +6. With either there must be a stable prescription.
Some of the most common questions asked are:
Does the procedure hurt?
LASIK is performed with anesthetic eye drops, which make the procedure relatively painless. There is no sensation of anything touching the eye. Some patients may feel a slight sensation of pressure on their lids, but they do not usually describe it as painful.
My eyes are very sensitive, and I have difficulty tolerating anything near my eye. How well will I tolerate LASIK?
Most people choose to take an oral sedative for relaxation. A gentle lid holder is used to prevent blinking. A light inside the laser provides a target to focus on during the entire procedure. Even the most sensitive patients are usually able to have LASIK.
Are both eyes done at once?
Yes, unless a patient specifically chooses to have one eye done at a time. Most patients want to have their vision corrected with minimum travel and healing time, and performing both eyes at once normally yields the most rapid visual recovery.
How long does the procedure take?
The entire procedure takes ten to fifteen minutes to complete for both eyes. The actual laser exposure time is typically less than 30 seconds per eye.
How soon will I be able to see after the procedure?
Typically, patients are able to see immediately after the procedure, however vision will be foggy for the first several hours. Vision will normally improve for the first 24 hours and most, but not all, patients are able to drive the first morning after their procedure.
How long will it take for my vision to gain maximum improvement?
Nearly all patients have recovered vision enough to work and resume all normal activities within 48 to 96 hours. The quality of your vision will usually continue to improve over a period of weeks and months.
Am I going to get 20/20 vision?
A high percentage of patients achieve 20/20 vision from LASIK, and nearly all patients achieve 20/40 vision; the level of vision needed to drive without correction. However, patients who expect to have 20/20 vision from the procedure and who would be unhappy with anything less are advised not to have LASIK. No one can guarantee a 20/20 result.
How much pain will there be after the procedure?
After the anesthetic drops wear off, patients usually describe approximately 6 to 12 hours of mild discomfort, scratchiness, watering, light sensitivity, and a sensation of something in their eyes. It is rare for a patient to need anything more than a mild over-the-counter pain reliever, and many patients need nothing at all. The outer layer of the eye heals very quickly with little discomfort.
Is the procedure permanent?
If your prescription is stable, it is believed that the results of your procedure will be permanent.
Are there possible complications?
As with any medical procedure, there are risks and complications which may occur in LASIK. Serious sight threatening complications are rare. Every patient should carefully read the informed consent document before they receive LASIK, and discuss any concerns with the doctor.
Will reading glasses be needed after the procedure?
If reading glasses are not required before the procedure, a full correction with LASIK will not cause you to wear them. However, as a result of the normal aging process of the eye, reading glasses are normally needed by age 45. If you currently wear bifocal glasses or reading glasses over your contacts, you may be a candidate for Monovision, which leaves one eye slightly nearsighted so that reading glasses may not be required.
What activity restrictions are there after the procedure?
Patients should not rub their eyes or swim for two weeks after the procedure. Normal activities may resume the first day after the procedure including golf, tennis, or other exercise.
When can I go back to work?
Depending on your occupation, most patients may return to work within 24 - 48 hours.
