Learn About LASIK Surgery

Here are the answers to some basic questions about LASIK surgery:

What eye conditions can LASIK correct?

In general, LASIK is able to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Your surgeon will screen your eyes carefully to determine how well LASIK may work to improve any of these conditions in your eyes.

How long does the treatment take?

The laser treatment itself takes about 30 seconds, based on the degree of correction necessary. Typically you will notice improved sight in a few days and can usually go back to work in two or three days.

Is the surgery painful?

The treatment itself is painless because it is performed using topical anesthetic (nothing more than eye drops) in the comfortable setting of our outpatient center. Medication is provided to relieve post-procedure discomfort.

What if I wear bifocals?

While LASIK doesn’t deter the natural aging process of the eye (which causes presbyopia), a procedure called monovision can be performed. Monovision is a method of distance vision correction to account for presbyopia. In monovision, the distance vision of the non-dominant eye is slightly under-corrected in order to assist near vision for tasks such as reading. For those requiring the best distance and/or unaided night vision possible, monovision is less desirable.

As a guideline, patients from their late 30s to 50 years old should strongly consider slight monovision, while those over 50 years old should strongly consider full monovision. Your doctor can advise you as to whether monovision may work for you, and discuss the risks and benefits of treating the eyes this way. Your surgeon may also suggest that you trial contact lenses with this type of vision before your surgery.

Can both eyes be treated on the same day?

Most patients do elect to have both eyes treated on the same day. The advantages include convenience, less total time away from work and balance in vision. Consult with your physician before you decide.

How long does the whole LASIK procedure take?

The laser operates, on average, less than one minute per eye. Time in the laser room is generally 15-30 minutes. Your ophthalmologist may opt to observe you for up to one hour after the surgery.

How long will it take to achieve stable vision?

Each patient’s healing response is different. While most patients achieve stable vision overnight, others may take a few days or in rare cases, a few weeks. Most patients, however, report that they return to their normal activity schedule in a few days.