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8 Criteria for a Good LASIK Candidate

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

If you rely on glasses or contacts, you’ve probably wondered what life would be like with clearer vision—no more fogged lenses or misplaced contacts. LASIK is a popular option for many, but not everyone is eligible for the procedure.

Understanding the typical criteria for LASIK can help you know what to expect when you talk with your eye doctor. While only a LASIK specialist can say for sure if it’s right for you, being familiar with these common guidelines can make your consultation more productive and help you prepare the right questions.

Let’s take a closer look at what eye doctors consider when evaluating LASIK candidates.

Key LASIK Candidate Criteria

1. Healthy Eyes Are a Must

  • Your eyes should be free from active infections, severe dry eye, or conjunctivitis.
  • Chronic dry eye? Discuss treatment options with your eye doctor or LASIK specialist before proceeding.
  • Any recent eye injuries or surgeries may require additional evaluation.

2. Your Prescription Should Be Within Range

  • LASIK is FDA-approved for:
    • Up to +6.00 diopters (farsightedness)
    • Up to -12.00 diopters (nearsightedness)
    • Up to 6.00 diopters (astigmatism)
  • Suitability depends on your unique eye profile and the technology used. A comprehensive evaluation is essential.
eye test

3. You Must Be at Least 18 Years Old

  • Most patients are in their 20s or older, as younger eyes may still be changing.
  • There’s no strict upper age limit, but older adults may still need reading glasses after LASIK.

4. Stable Prescription for At Least One Year

  • Your vision prescription should not have changed significantly in the past year.
  • Fluctuating vision may indicate it’s best to wait until your prescription stabilizes.

5. Good General Health

  • Certain health conditions can affect healing and eligibility:
    • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
    • Uncontrolled diabetes
    • Chronic pain syndromes or depression
  • Always disclose your full medical history to your LASIK specialist.

6. Not Pregnant or Recently Postpartum

  • Hormonal changes during pregnancy can alter vision.
  • It’s best to wait until after pregnancy and, if nursing, consult your specialist for personalized advice.

7. Corneal Thickness Within Safe Limits

  • LASIK reshapes the cornea, so adequate corneal thickness is vital.
  • Most patients’ corneas are 540–550 microns thick, but advanced lasers can sometimes accommodate thinner corneas.

8. Informed and Prepared

  • Research LASIK thoroughly and prepare questions for your consultation.
  • Understanding the LASIK procedure, risks, and benefits helps ensure the best outcome.

LASIK Candidate Criteria at a Glance

CriteriaWhy It MattersWhat to Do Next
Healthy eyesReduces risk of complicationsTreat any active conditions
Prescription in rangeEnsures best possible resultsGet a comprehensive eye exam
Age 18+Eyes should be fully developedWait if under 18
Stable prescription (1+ year)Prevents need for repeat proceduresMonitor changes with your doctor
Good overall healthPromotes proper healingShare full medical history
Not pregnant/nursingPrevents temporary vision changesSchedule post-pregnancy consult
Adequate corneal thicknessEnsures safety and effectivenessGet measured by a specialist
Well-informedSets realistic expectationsPrepare questions for consult

Why Choose TLC Laser Eye Centers?

Ready to See If You’re a LASIK Candidate?

Schedule a free consultation with TLC Laser Eye Centers. Our experts will provide a personalized assessment and answer all your questions—so you can make the best decision for your vision.

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[i] FDA. (2016). Summary of safety and effectiveness data. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf2/P020050S023B.pdf

iii Mayo Clinic. (2019). Lasik surgery: Is it right for you? Mayoclinic.org. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/in-depth/lasik-surgery/art-20045751

LASIK Eye Surgery Boasts an Impressive 96-98% Patient Satisfaction Rate

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) has revolutionized vision correction, providing a minimally invasive alternative to glasses and contact lenses. It’s estimated that between 20 to 25 million laser vision correction procedures, including LASIK, have been performed in the United States since the FDA first approved the technology in the 1990s, largely due to its proven safety, high success rates, and patient satisfaction.

In fact, one study reports that LASIK has an impressive patient success rate between 96-98%! Research indicates LASIK enables:

  • 99% of patients to achieve 20/40 vision or better
  • 90% of patients to achieve ideal 20/20 vision
  • 50% of patients to gain better than 20/20 vision
LASIK success rate

Driving Factors Behind LASIK’s High Success Rates

Several factors account for why LASIK is so successful, including:

  • Advanced laser systems
  • Precision techniques
  • Experienced surgeons.

Additionally, the vast majority of procedures are performed by specially trained ophthalmologists and optometrists with years of surgical experience. Their expertise contributes greatly to LASIK’s impressive outcomes.

Understanding LASIK’s Low Complication Rates

In addition to excellent success rates, LASIK eye surgery has been determined to have minimal risks or side effects. Current estimates place the complication rate at less than 1%.

While the first days may involve mild irritation and light sensitivity, long-term issues like dry eye or halos are uncommon. When they do occur, symptoms often resolve within 3-6 months.

The most serious complications involve the corneal flap created during surgery. However, with precise laser tools and skilled surgeons, flap issues and related optical problems are very rare.

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Affordability May Be the Only Barrier for Some Patients

Given the outstanding safety and success of modern LASIK techniques, affordability remains one of the biggest barriers limiting access for patients. While prices vary, custom options with advanced technology may cost more than standard treatment.

For those concerned about cost, flexible spending accounts, health savings account, insurance and financing options can make LASIK more affordable. The proven results and life-changing conveniences make it well worth the investment for most people. Check out the ongoing expense of glasses and contacts.

Affordable LASIK Options

Like any surgery, LASIK has risks and potential complications that are discussed during a surgical consultation prior to the procedure.

Sources:

DataM Intelligence, https://www.datamintelligence.com/. (2025, April 14). Lasik Eye Surgery Market – Market Analysis, Sustainable Growth Insights 2025-2033. DataMIntelligence. https://www.datamintelligence.com/research-report/lasik-eye-surgery-market

Refractive Surgery Council. “Is LASIK Safe? What You Need to Know,” October 13, 2022. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/is-lasik-safe/.

Refractive Surgery Council. “What Is the LASIK Success Rate?,” January 23, 2025. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/laser-eye-surgery-lasik-success-rate/.

Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, Vol. 42, Issue 8, August 2016, Pages 1224-1234

Sugar A, Hood C, Mian S. Patient-reported outcomes following LASIK: quality of Life in the PROWL Studies. JAMA. 2017;317(2):204–205. doi: 10.1001/jama.2016.19323

Hays RD, Tarver ME, Spritzer KL, et al. Assessment of the Psychometric Properties of a Questionnaire Assessing Patient-Reported Outcomes With Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (PROWL). JAMA Ophthalmol. 2017;135(1):3–12. doi: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2016.4597

Joffe, S. N. (2021). The 25th anniversary of laser vision correction in the United States. Clinical Ophthalmology, Volume 15, 1163–1172. https://doi.org/10.2147/opth.s299752

PROWL-1 provides new insights on LASIK outcomes. (2020, November 15). Ophthalmology Times. https://www.ophthalmologytimes.com/view/prowl-1-provides-new-insights-lasik-outcomes

Center for Devices and Radiological Health. (2021, June 17). LASIK Quality of Life Collaboration Project. U.S. Food And Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/lasik/lasik-quality-life-collaboration-project

Chua, D., Htoon, H. M., Lim, L., Chan, C. M., Mehta, J. S., Tan, D. T. H., & Rosman, M. (2018). Eighteen-year prospective audit of LASIK outcomes for myopia in 53 731 eyes. British Journal of Ophthalmology, 103(9), 1228–1234. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjophthalmol-2018-312587

LASIK vs. Ortho-K: A Comprehensive Comparison

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Deciding between LASIK and Ortho-K for vision correction can feel overwhelming. Both options offer clearer vision without glasses or daytime contacts, but they differ in approach, suitability, and outcomes. We’ll explore LASIK vs. Ortho-K to help you make an informed choice based on your lifestyle and eye health needs.

Key Takeaway: LASIK provides permanent correction with quick recovery, while Ortho-K offers a non-surgical, reversible solution ideal for myopia control.

Key Differences Between LASIK and Ortho-K

LASIK is a permanent laser surgery, while Ortho-K uses overnight lenses for temporary corneal reshaping. Here’s a quick overview:

FeatureLASIKOrtho-K
MethodLaser surgeryOvernight contact lenses
PermanencePermanentTemporary, reversible
Recovery1–2 days for initial results1–2 weeks for full effect
SuitabilityMyopia, hyperopia, astigmatismMyopia, mild astigmatism

What is LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)?

LASIK is a surgical procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct vision. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a permanent solution.

LASIK Procedure

  • Flap Creation: A thin corneal flap is created using a laser or microkeratome.
  • Corneal Reshaping: An excimer laser reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors.
  • Flap Replacement: The flap is repositioned, healing naturally without stitches.

Benefits of LASIK

  • Rapid vision improvement, often within 24 hours.
  • Minimal discomfort during and after surgery.
  • Long-lasting results for most patients.

Risks of LASIK

  • Temporary dry eyes or light sensitivity.
  • Rare flap-related complications.
  • Not suitable for thin corneas or severe prescriptions.

What is Ortho-K (Orthokeratology)?

Ortho-K uses specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, providing clear vision during the day without lenses or glasses.

Ortho-K Procedure

  • Overnight Wear: Lenses are worn while sleeping to gently reshape the cornea.
  • Daytime Freedom: Remove lenses in the morning for clear vision all day.
  • Consistent Use: Nightly wear maintains results.

Benefits of Ortho-K

  • Non-surgical and reversible.
  • Ideal for children or those avoiding surgery.
  • Slows myopia progression in younger patients.

Risks of Ortho-K

  • Mild discomfort during lens adaptation.
  • Risk of infection if lenses aren’t cleaned properly.
  • Vision may fluctuate if lenses aren’t worn consistently.

LASIK vs. Ortho-K: Which is Right for You?

Choosing between LASIK and Ortho-K depends on your preferences, eye health, and lifestyle. Consider these factors:

  • Surgical Preference: Prefer non-surgical? Ortho-K is reversible and non-invasive.
  • Corneal Thickness: Thin corneas may favor Ortho-K over LASIK.
  • Lifestyle: LASIK suits those seeking permanent results; Ortho-K fits active individuals or kids.
  • Budget: Ortho-K requires ongoing lens costs; LASIK is a one-time expense.

Frequently Asked Questions About LASIK vs. Ortho-K

Is LASIK or Ortho-K better for myopia control?

Ortho-K is often preferred for myopia control, especially in children, as it can slow progression. LASIK corrects myopia but doesn’t address progression.

How long do LASIK and Ortho-K results last?

LASIK offers permanent results for most, while Ortho-K requires nightly lens wear to maintain effects.

Can I switch from Ortho-K to LASIK later?

Yes, Ortho-K is reversible, allowing you to pursue LASIK after consulting an eye care profession

LASIK OD

Next Steps for Vision Correction

Both LASIK and Ortho-K offer effective vision correction, but the best choice depends on your unique needs. Schedule a consultation with an eye care specialist to assess your eyes and discuss which option aligns with your goals.

Schedule a FREE LASIK Consultation Today

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Reference

What is orthokeratology? (2023, April 23). American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/what-is-orthokeratology

LASIK vs SMILE: What’s the Difference?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

LASIK and SMILE are both laser vision correction procedures that can correct refractive errors reducing your dependence on glasses or contact lenses. They are both safe and effective procedures, but there are some key differences between them.

What is LASIK?

LASIK stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. In LASIK, a thin flap is created in the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. A laser is then used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue, correcting refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The flap is then repositioned, and the eye heals naturally.

What is SMILE?

SMILE stands for small incision lenticule extraction. In SMILE, a small lenticule is removed from the cornea using a femtosecond laser. The lenticule is a disc of tissue that is removed from the cornea to reshape it.

Key Differences

  • Incision Size: LASIK involves a larger incision to create the corneal flap, while SMILE uses a much smaller incision.
  • Tissue Removal: LASIK removes tissue from the surface of the cornea, while SMILE removes tissue from beneath the surface.
  • Recovery Time: SMILE generally has a faster recovery time with less discomfort and dry eye symptoms compared to LASIK.

Which is right for you?

The best way to decide which procedure is right for you is to talk to your eye doctor. They can assess your individual needs and help you choose the best option for you.

Our Commitment to Patient Care

At TLC Vision, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care. That’s why we take a conservative approach to new technology. We want to make sure that any new laser technology we offer is safe and effective, and that it provides our patients with the best possible outcomes.

While SMILE is a less invasive procedure than LASIK, it’s relatively new, and long-term data on its safety and effectiveness is limited. As such, we have opted to continue offering LASIK at this time, as it has a longer track record of success.

If you are interested in learning more about SMILE, we encourage you to talk to your eye doctor. They can help you understand the risks and benefits of this new procedure and determine if it is right for you.

Sources:

American Academy of Ophthalmology. “SMILE vs. LASIK: Which Offers Better Early Visual Recovery?,” October 17, 2018. https://www.aao.org/education/editors-choice/smile-vs-lasik-which-offers-better-early-visual-re.

American Academy of Ophthalmology. “Changes in Corneal Sensitivity and Dry Eye Symptoms After SMILE vs. LASIK Surgery,” October 5, 2022. https://www.aao.org/eyenet/academy-live/detail/corneal-sensitivity-dry-eye-symptoms-smile-lasik.

Refractive Surgery Council. “What Is the LASIK Success Rate?,” August 16, 2022. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/laser-eye-surgery-lasik-success-rate/#:~:text=The%20LASIK%20success%20rate%20%E2%80%93%20or,achieve%2020%2F20%20or%20better.

Is LASIK Eye Surgery Covered by Insurance?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Many who are considering LASIK eye surgery often ask one common question: Is LASIK covered by insurance? The short answer is that LASIK is an elective surgery and not typically covered by insurance plans, but there are options available to help cover the cost of LASIK laser eye surgery. Financing options are available for LASIK patients. Ahead, we’ll review some of the most popular options for covering the cost of LASIK surgery.

Understanding the Value of LASIK

Before diving into financing options, it’s important to recognize the long-term value of LASIK eye surgery. While the upfront cost may seem significant, the procedure often proves to be a cost-effective solution when compared to the ongoing expenses of glasses, contact lenses, and related eye care products over a lifetime.

Learn More about Cost of LASIK

Options for Financing Your Laser Eye Surgery

The decision to undergo LASIK surgery is a significant one, and financial considerations often play a pivotal role in the process. Fortunately, a variety of financing options are available to help individuals achieve their goal of improved vision.

Insurance Savings and Partial Coverage through Insurance

While LASIK insurance coverage is rare, it’s important to note that some insurance plans and employers do provide partial coverage for LASIK surgery. TLC Laser Eye Centers work with many major vision insurance providers to offer LASIK savings, and the savings apply on the day of the procedure so that you don’t have to wait for reimbursement. The TLC team will work with you to make sure you’re getting the most savings possible.

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LASIK Financing

TLC Laser Eye Centers offer financing options for laser eye surgery patients. We work with CareCredit, a credit card created specifically for healthcare needs which offers special financing options. If you have specific questions about the financing options available, you can learn more at your local TLC Laser Eye Center.

CareCredit: Healthcare-Specific Credit Card

CareCredit is a specialized credit card designed to cover healthcare expenses, including LASIK surgery. It offers flexible financing options that allow you to pay for your procedure over time, often with promotional financing offers that can make the cost more manageable. We are proud to partner with CareCredit that offers our patients:

  • Flexible payment plans
  • Special financing options with potentially lower interest rates
  • The ability to cover procedures not typically included in standard insurance plans

In-House Financing: Our Commitment to Your Vision

Understanding that each patient’s financial situation is unique, we have developed our own in-house financing program. This option ensures that regardless of your circumstances, you will have access to guaranteed financing. Our in-house plans feature:

  • Customized payment schedules
  • Competitive interest rates
  • No hidden fees or prepayment penalties

Health Savings Accounts (HSA)

A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-exempt account that allows individuals with a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) to save money for medical expenses, including LASIK surgery. Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, and funds can be withdrawn tax-free to pay for qualified medical expenses. At [Our Clinic Name], we support our patients in utilizing their HSA funds to cover LASIK costs, providing a convenient and tax-efficient way to invest in your vision health.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is another tax-advantaged financial tool that allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for eligible medical expenses, including LASIK surgery. FSAs are typically offered through employer-sponsored benefit plans and can be used for a wide range of medical needs. Planning ahead is crucial when using an FSA, as funds must be used within the plan year or forfeited.

Just as with an HSA, using an FSA to cover medical needs may be easier with good planning. You can use TLC’s free FSA savings calculator for an easy way to explore how it all works.

LASIK covered by insurance

Planning Your LASIK Financing Strategy

Whether you choose to finance LASIK through CareCredit, our in-house options, or utilize tax-advantaged accounts like HSAs and FSAs, careful planning is key to maximizing your benefits. Understanding the eligibility requirements and financial implications of each option will help you make informed decisions about your vision correction journey.

At TLC Laser Eye Centers, we are committed to making LASIK surgery accessible and affordable for our patients. Through our comprehensive financing options and support for tax-advantaged accounts like HSAs and FSAs, we strive to ensure that cost is not a barrier to achieving clearer vision. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you finance your LASIK procedure and take the first step towards a life free from glasses and contact lenses.

If you have any questions about LASIK insurance coverage, financing, or payment options, the TLC team is here to help you learn more. Schedule your free LASIK consultation at your local TLC Laser Eye Center to learn more about financing for laser eye surgery, discuss the benefits of LASIK, and find the options that work for you.

How Does Bladeless LASIK Work?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Are you considering LASIK eye surgery and wondering which procedure is right for you? With various types of laser eye surgery available, each using different tools, technology, and techniques, it’s important to choose the one that best meets your needs. Bladeless LASIK, a popular alternative to traditional LASIK, shares many similarities with its traditional counterpart but also has a few key differences. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at how bladeless vision correction works and what you can expect from the procedure.

Bladeless Laser Eye Surgery: How Blade Free LASIK Works, and What to Expect

Learning about laser eye surgery options online is a great first step, but it’s important to note that only your laser eye surgeon can recommend the right procedure for your unique needs. So, if you haven’t scheduled your free laser eye surgery consultation yet, now is a great time to do so.

The first step toward learning more about bladeless LASIK is explaining some of the lingo:

 Also Known As…

During your research you may find that bladeless LASIK is referred to by a few different names, but each refers to the same procedure. Some of the common names for bladeless LASIK include blade free LASIK, and all-laser LASIK. You may also see a brand name integrated with one of those common terms for bladeless LASIK.

How Bladeless Laser Eye Surgery Works

If you’re learning about laser eye surgery, you may already be familiar with the concept of the LASIK flap, which is created at the start of the procedure and allows your LASIK eye surgeon to address vision problems at the correct level of the eye. During traditional LASIK procedures, the flap is created by an instrument called a microkeratome, which is an oscillating diamond blade.

  • Instead of using a microkeratome, bladeless laser eye surgery relies on the use of a specialized laser to create the LASIK flap. This is where the terms “bladeless” and “all-laser” LASIK come from, as well as the key difference between bladeless and traditional LASIK.
  • By using the most advanced LASIK technology, your laser eye surgeon is able to map the eye, based on the unique structure of each individual’s eye, to create a custom LASIK flap.
  • After the flap is created, the bladeless LASIK procedure works very similarly to traditional LASIK. Most importantly, bladeless surgery significantly reduces intra and post-operative complications making it a safer procedure.

What to Expect from Bladeless LASIK Surgery

While blade-free LASIK has a few key differences from traditional LASIK, the preparation, procedure, and healing process share many similarities. The process begins with a visit to your local TLC Laser Eye Center for a free consultation.

  • During your free consultation, your laser eye surgery specialist will review your vision correction needs, and discuss your laser eye surgery options.
  • Before the bladeless vision correction procedure, you’ll have a pre-operative visit, which makes specific measurements of your eye. This is when much of the “customization” is done for the procedure.
  • On the day of your procedure, your laser eye surgery team will prepare you for surgery, and after the procedure, there will be a brief recovery period. Bladeless LASIK is an outpatient procedure, which means that you get to go home the same day.
  • The recovery process begins with rest on the day of surgery and continues with follow-up visits to check on your progress. As healing progresses and vision stabilizes, there is a longer gap between each follow-up visit.
  • While every patient is unique, most patients see very well the next day. As with any surgery, it takes time to heal. Most patients are able to resume normal daily activities within a few days and the eye is completely healed in 3 months. You are seen for scheduled visits along the way. Overall, you may notice many similarities between bladeless and traditional LASIK, along with the differences that set each procedure apart.

Scheduling your free laser eye surgery consultation is the best way to learn more about bladeless vision correction, and the laser eye surgery options available.

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Am I Too Old for LASIK?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Many patients seek to eliminate their reliance on glasses and contact lenses but are unsure if LASIK is a viable option as they age. A common question about LASIK is whether it’s suitable for older individuals. Fortunately, the criteria for LASIK candidacy remain consistent regardless of age: stable vision prescription, healthy eyes, and good overall health are key factors. However, since our eyes and visual needs evolve over time, there are a few additional considerations for laser eye surgery later in life.

Why There’s No Upper Age Limit on LASIK

The only real age limit for a LASIK procedure, per the FDA, is that each surgical candidate should be at least 18 years of age. Our eyes and corresponding prescription requirements may change frequently at that age, and it’s important to wait until that tendency to change stabilizes before having laser eye surgery. There are a few other developmental milestones in life that often motivate people to consider laser eye surgery, beginning in early adulthood.

  • The most common range for LASIK patients is between 20 and 45 years old. Vision prescriptions often stabilize in the mid-twenties, so this is a natural time for people to consider LASIK eye surgery.
  • Next up is the 45 to 55-year age range, the time when many people begin to feel the early effects of presbyopia, which is related to the natural aging process and causes difficulty with near vision. While LASIK may be a treatment option for some presbyopia patients, we certainly have more vision correction technologies to offer our presbyopic patients, such as Monovision.
  • Beyond age 55, cataracts may start to develop even though they may not affect your vision at early stages. When cataract is determined to be the main reason for changes in your vision, cataract extraction surgery becomes the preferred method of treatment to improve your vision instead of LASIK eye surgery.

The basics for LASIK candidacy include a stable vision prescription for at least one year, no eye diseases, and good overall health. If you’ve got those things, then you’re off to an excellent start.

It’s important to note that good overall health doesn’t have to mean perfect health. Not every potential health issue for seniors impacts the eyes, and speaking with a LASIK specialist is the best way to learn how laser eye surgery fits in with various health needs.

Regardless of your age, are you curious whether LASIK eye surgery is the right fit for your vision health needs? The easiest way to find out is to schedule a free consultation with TLC LASIK specialist, where you can determine if you’re a candidate and learn more about what laser eye surgery can do for you.

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Can I Get LASIK Eye Surgery If I’m Pregnant?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Capture Every Precious Moment

Motherhood is a whirlwind of joy, filled with countless milestones that fly by in a blink. From first smiles to wobbly steps, these moments become cherished memories. But blurry vision can make it harder to fully experience the magic.

LASIK: A Gift for Future Adventures

LASIK eye surgery offers an effective way to achieve clear vision, but it’s important to wait until after pregnancy. Hormonal changes and medications used during LASIK can impact results. Nursing patients can consult with a LASIK specialist to assess their individual circumstances and determine whether the procedure is a suitable option.

The Wait is Worth It: Preparing for Post-Pregnancy LASIK

The good news? Recovery from LASIK is quick, so you won’t miss precious time with your little one. Here’s how to prepare for LASIK after pregnancy:

  • Find Your Perfect LASIK Provider: Research local surgeons and prioritize finding one who aligns with your needs.
  • Explore Financing Options: Many LASIK centers offer financing plans. Researching these options upfront empowers you to make informed decisions later.
  • Gather Your Questions: Make a list of questions for your consultation. This ensures you get all the information you need.
  • Seek First-Hand Experiences: Talk to friends or family who’ve had LASIK. Their insights can validate your research.

A New Mom’s Vision for a Brighter Future

With a 5-month-old baby at home, a patient was tired of the hassle of glasses and contacts. To fully enjoy every precious moment with her little one, she decided to undergo LASIK surgery.

Watch as Dr. Thomas from LasikPlus, our Family of LASIK brands, talk about LASIK with a new mom.

Schedule a FREE LASIK Consultation Today

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Embrace the Future with Clear Vision

Imagine seeing your child’s first laugh with perfect clarity. LASIK unlocks a world of vibrant details, making every milestone even more special.

The Gift of Seeing Clearly

Clear vision is a gift that keeps on giving. By researching LASIK now, you’ll be ready to embrace motherhood with perfect vision.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing moms!

Source:

How does pregnancy affect LASIK? (2018, February 12). American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/ask-ophthalmologist-q/how-does-pregnancy-affect-lasik

Cost Questions to Ask Your LASIK Provider

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

The cost of LASIK eye surgery depends on many factors and with so many factors to consider, it’s no surprise that questions about LASIK cost are quite common. Ahead, we’ll cover some of the most common questions about the cost of LASIK eye surgery, and suggest key topics to discuss with your LASIK provider.

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What is included in the LASIK cost?

This is one of the most important questions you can ask about the cost of laser eye surgery. The answer depends in large part on your LASIK provider, and how they structure their services. Some LASIK cost quotes focus specifically on the laser eye surgery procedure, while others include aftercare and other extras. Ask your provider exactly what they include in the cost of LASIK, and don’t be afraid to request clarification if you’re unsure about anything.

Is the laser eye surgery cost different by eye?

The cost of laser eye surgery is typically listed per eye, so a laser eye surgery quote of $1,000 per eye would equal a total cost of $2,000 for both eyes. While most laser eye surgery patients have the procedure on both eyes, there are occasions in which people may opt for LASIK on one eye due to their specific vision correction needs.

Do different LASIK procedures have difference costs?

Different LASIK and laser eye surgery procedures do have different costs, often based on the laser technology used to perform the laser eye surgery procedure that is specific to your vision correction needs. Consider the benefits of each procedure and how they relate to your own needs in order to make an informed decision. The best way to understand if LASIK if right for you is to schedule a free consultation.

What if I want an assurance plan?

A LASIK assurance plan provides re-treatment when certain criteria apply, typically, for a set period after your laser eye surgery is complete. Ask your surgeon if a one-year assurance plan is included with your surgery, and request information on the cost of a lifetime assurance plan. An assurance plan will typically increase the cost of LASIK up front, but many LASIK patients enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that re-treatment is always covered if they have the need.

Does insurance cover LASIK surgery?

Laser eye surgery is generally considered to be an elective procedure by insurance companies, which means that it won’t normally be covered by a health insurance policy. However, you may be covered by insurance if certain conditions apply, so it is worth inquiring with your insurance company. The good news is that even if you aren’t covered by insurance, there are many affordable ways to cover the laser eye surgery cost.

When it comes to the cost of LASIK surgery, remember that you have many financing options available. Most LASIK providers offer financing that allows you to pay for the procedure over time, and tax-friendly savings options like health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts make it easier to save for medical costs.

In conclusion, the cost of LASIK surgery encompasses various factors, including the LASIK provider’s pricing structure, the specific procedure chosen, and the inclusion of additional services or assurances. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of these elements, individuals can make informed decisions regarding their vision correction journey. Whether exploring financing options or assessing the benefits of different LASIK procedures, proactive engagement and thorough research are key to achieving optimal visual outcomes.

Schedule a free LASIK consultation with TLC Laser Eye Centers to embark on your path to clearer vision today.

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Top 5 Questions to Ask Your LASIK Surgeon

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Preparing for your first LASIK visit, or thinking about scheduling a consultation? Before you head to your local LASIK center, it’s important to consider any questions you might have about laser vision correction. Ahead, we’ll cover five questions that everyone should ask when visiting their LASIK doctor.

LASIK notes

How many LASIK surgeries have you performed?

This is the perfect place to start when getting to know your LASIK surgeon. While a low number of surgeries don’t necessarily speak poorly of a provider, many people prefer to work with a more experienced surgeon. No matter your preference, it’s always a good idea to learn about your surgeon’s experience level.

What laser technology do you use?

LASIK technology is always evolving, including the lasers used to perform the procedure. In addition to standard laser vision correction, your provider may offer options like Bladeless LASIK, Custom LASIK, and Topography-Guided LASIK. Each comes with its own benefits, and your provider will help decide which is right for you.

What determines my LASIK candidacy?

The first thing to know is that if you’re healthy and over the age of 18, you’ve already checked two of the biggest boxes. However, each LASIK candidacy is evaluated individually, and it’s important to understand exactly how your candidacy is determined.

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What can I expect during my LASIK surgery?

LASIK is a quick procedure – just 15 minutes, total – and is performed on an outpatient basis at your LASIK center. You likely have more questions about the LASIK procedure and your LASIK doctor is the perfect person to ask for more information.

What can I expect after my LASIK surgery?

While LASIK is known to deliver consistent results, everyone heals individually. If you want to understand more about what the recovery period is like, how long it takes, and how soon you’ll notice improved vision, ask your LASIK surgeon for details. Online research may provide an outline, but only your surgeon can give an individualized answer based on your prescription and personalized laser eye surgery treatment plan.

These are some of the most common LASIK questions, but there are all sorts of small details that you may want to ask about during your visit. Remember that there is no such thing as a silly question! Before your visit, set aside some time to make a list of your key questions. Your LASIK surgeon will be happy to provide answers, tailored to your individual case.

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