Frequently Asked Questions About LASIK

Just the thought of a laser pointed at your eye can seem a bit scary! Although all surgery – even LASIK – has risks, but most people who undergo LASIK treatment do not suffer from serious side effects. The most common risks of LASIK surgery include dry eye syndrome; the possible need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery; visual symptoms including halos, glare, starbursts, and double vision; and loss of vision. Be sure to talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of LASIK surgery before you decide whether it is the right option for you.

LASIK is an acronym for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. LASIK is a type of laser vision correction in which a laser reshapes the cornea to improve vision.

A thin, hinged flap is created on the surface of the eye using either a blade or a laser beam. This flap is gently lifted to expose the cornea. A laser beam is then used to gently reshape the cornea. The flap is brought back into place and serves as a natural bandage.

Only a qualified eye care professional can determine if LASIK is right for you. They will perform a comprehensive preoperative examination, which includes tests, measurements and a review of your medical history to decide if you are a good candidate for LASIK.

Because each doctor’s method will vary slightly, you should talk with your doctor about what exactly to expect. For a general idea of what happens, visit My LASIK Surgery.

Some people feel slight pressure or mild discomfort, but because anesthetic drops are administered to your eye before the procedure, the surgery tends to be painless.

Immediately after your procedure, while your cornea is still healing, you may be sensitive to bright light. Your vision may also be slightly blurry. However, most LASIK patients say their eyes feel normal the day following their procedure and are very pleased with their vision. Your vision will continue to improve in the months following the procedure.