Lasik Eye Surgery FAQs

Many people who have low to moderate vision problems can benefit from Lasik vision correction surgery. Although there are some risks and complications involved with the surgery, Lasik is a painless and quick procedure. As in any surgery, it is important to understand what happens before, during and after a Lasik procedure. This information will enable the patient to have a realistic expectation of the surgery procedure.

Like most patients, you will probably have many questions about the Lasik surgery and most good Lasik doctors will fully explain the procedure to you. Following is a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lasik eye surgery.

Am I A Good Candidate For Lasik?

Whether or not you are a good candidate for Lasik depends on many factors. Your eye care professional will ask you many questions and take a thorough health history during your initial appointment. For people with certain health problems, such as autoimmune diseases and diabetes, Lasik is generally not recommended. Those under the age of 18 are also not good candidates. Also, certain degenerative eye diseases might disqualify you from having Lasik. Your Lasik surgeon will make a decision based on all of these factors, as those who are not good candidates for the surgery can have poor outcomes.

Will Lasik Vision Correction Eliminate The Need For Corrective Lenses?

It is possible that even with the Lasik procedure, you will still need to wear some form of glasses or contacts. This is to be expected and is normal and doesn't mean that the surgery had a poor outcome. Lasik is designed to improve vision and is not a means to completely correct vision problems. Those who go into Lasik expecting perfect vision with an unrealistic expectation should not undergo treatment.

Are There Risks Of Having The Lasik Procedure?

As with any surgery or medical procedure, there are risks involved. Although most people don't have a problem with the surgery, there are some that do. Low light vision is the most commonly reported side effect of the Lasik procedure. This glowing or halo effect around lit objects at night will disappear over a period of time. However, although rare, there are some long-term complications that have been reported and some people could experience worse eyesight than they had before surgery.

Does The Procedure Hurt?

The Lasik procedure is painless and quick for most patients. Each eye only takes a minute or two after being numbed by drops and patients will stay awake the entire time. A mild sedative can be given to those patients who are uncomfortable with surgery. Most patients are able to walk out of the surgery center after the procedure is complete.

Will I Need To Take Time Off Of Work After The Procedure?

Most patients do need to take some time off of work after the procedure, although this can vary according to the work. Most of the time patients can start back to work in 2 to 3 days, especially for jobs that are sedentary. However, since it's necessary to rest the eyes after surgery, computer use may be limited for a brief period of time. Your Lasik doctor will advise you when to start back to work.

How Much Does The Procedure Cost?

The cost of the Lasik procedure depends on the condition of the eyes, what kind of technique is used, and also where you live. Those with more severe vision problems will cost a bit more. The Lasik procedure usually costs at least $2,000.

Does Insurance Cover Lasik?

Due to the fact that Lasik vision correction is considered elective, most insurance plans won't cover it, although some insurance plans do have extended eye care plans that may help defray the costs of Lasik. Sometimes Lasik can be paid for by using what is called a cafeteria plan. Be sure to check with your employer, as some companies offer their employees special rates for going to a certain clinic for Lasik.