LASIK (laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis) is a safe, reliable and painless way to improve vision and reduce or eliminate the need to wear glasses or contact lenses. LASIK changes the way light is bent, or refracted, as it passes through the cornea so that it focuses properly on the retina and objects can be seen clearly.

During the procedure, a thin flap is made in the cornea. Patients are given anesthesia so they can't feel the instruments. The corneal flap is lifted and an excimer laser beam adjusts curvature (steepened for far-sighted patients, flattened for near-sighted patients). The flap is then closed. The entire procedure takes only 15-30 minutes per eye, and patients are often ready to leave within an hour or two.

Click on CustomVue to view procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What happens before surgery?
You will be given a thorough eye exam to make sure your eyes are healthy and that you are a suitable candidate. Your cornea will be digitally photographed, and a computer will map your eyes. The surgeon will use this map to plan your surgery for the most precise results possible.

Does LASIK hurt?
You do not feel pain during the surgery. Your surgeon will place anesthetic drops in your eyes before your procedure. Patients report a feeling of pressure during the procedure, and mild discomfort for a day or so.

How long does the procedure take?
You can expect the entire procedure to take between 5-10 minutes/eye. The actual laser portion of the procedure usually takes less than a minute/eye. We ask that you arrive at the laser center about an hour and a half before to complete any last necessary testing and to be sure that all your questions are answered.

What happens after surgery?
Goggles will be placed over your eyes. You will leave the goggles in place until the next morning.  Post-operative instructions, including use of eye drops, will be reviewed with you. You will be sent home with instructions to rest with your eyes closed. You will probably notice improved vision, but it will still be blurry when you leave the center. Your vision will continue to improve as the hours go by. Many people return to work the next day, but a day or two of minimal use of your eyes is recommended.

How well will I see after the procedure?
Results vary with each individual. The large majority of people can expect vision similar to what they have with their glasses or contact lenses. In fact, 98% of our patients see well enough to pass a driver's test without corrective lenses. Vision may be slightly blurry in the days following the procedure and some patients experience small vision changes during the first several months, which is normal. The LASIK procedure often results in more rapid vision recovery than PRK.

For Additional Information:

LASIK Eye Surgery
American Academy of Ophthalmology
Medical Library: Vision Correction Surgery
Reality LASIK with Kristin Cavallari
Contact us for more information on LASIK

Insurance Information

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