LASIK Surgery - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the LASIK procedure like? Is it likely to be a success? How much does it cost? These are some of the questions people commonly ask when they’re considering having the surgery done. To help you with your decision, we’ve gathered the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the LASIK procedure.
Does LASIK have a high success rate?
Yes, LASIK laser eye surgery is a highly successful procedure. LASIK has been studied by the FDA as well as the American Association of Professional Eye Care Specialists (AAPECS). Their data shows that more than ninety percent of LASIK surgeries restore the patient’s vision to 20/40 or better. In fact, more than half of all LASIK surgeries result in 20/20 vision.
How is LASIK performed?
LASIK is performed by skilled LASIK eye surgeons and doctors with the assistance of computer imaging and a laser. Your eyes will be numbed, then suction rings will be applied to hold them in place. The surgeon will score the outermost layer of your cornea to create a flap in the tissue. Then the flap will be folded back, and the doctor will use a laser to sculpt the deeper corneal layers beneath. Some patients experience mild discomfort. You might also hear the laser’s pulses or smell a slight burning odor. After just a few minutes, you will be given protective shells to place over your eyes when you sleep. The doctor will also give you post-surgical instructions, and might prescribe pain medicine or an antibiotic.
Are there risks associated with LASIK?
Yes, but they are rare. Fewer than 5 percent of all patients experience complications stemming from LASIK. These include injuries to the eye, infection of the eye, and markedly worsened vision. These complications are usually reversible through medication or revision surgery. A very small percentage of patients experience permanent visual anomalies, such as haloes and glares, when looking at bright light sources.
What can I expect during my recovery from LASIK?
Immediately following LASIK, you will head home to rest and recuperate in comfort. If you can fall asleep, you should do so; having a long nap following the procedure lets you avoid the most uncomfortable part of recovery. After a full night’s rest, you will likely notice an improvement in your vision. Dry eyes and sensitivity to light are some of the common side-effects of LASIK. These symptoms typically resolve themselves in a few days to a few weeks. Be sure to attend your post-LASIK follow-up appointment and share any concerns with your doctor.
How much does LASIK cost?
The cost of LASIK is decreasing, but you should never settle for a “cheap” laser eye surgery. Very low prices can spell trouble or be the sign of an inexperienced surgeon. Stick with trusted doctors who have done hundreds of procedures.
To learn more about LASIK eye surgery as well as treatments for cataracts and dry eye and implantable contact lenses, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at our LASIK office in St. Louis, Missouri.