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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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Celebrate Earth Day by Choosing LASIK for a Greener Vision 

Posted on by Lisa Scheibenzuber

The Environmental Cost of Contact Lenses

As we celebrate Earth Day and renew our commitment to environmental sustainability, it’s essential to recognize the hidden ecological impact of our everyday choices, including vision correction methods. While contact lenses offer a convenient solution for many, their disposable nature contributes to a staggering amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and oceans.

contact lenses and LASIK

According to recent estimates, billions of contact lenses are discarded annually worldwide, with each lens contributing to the growing plastic pollution crisis. The majority of these lenses are made from non-biodegradable materials, such as silicon-based hydrogels and rigid gas-permeable plastics, which can take hundreds of years to decompose.

LASIK: A Vision for a Cleaner Planet

In the face of this environmental challenge, LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) emerges as a sustainable solution that aligns with the principles of Earth Day. By undergoing this advanced vision correction procedure, individuals can significantly reduce their reliance on disposable contact lenses, thereby minimizing their contribution to plastic waste.

LASIK is a bladeless, minimally invasive procedure that reshapes the cornea, allowing light to focus directly on the retina, correcting refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This permanent vision correction eliminates the need for disposable contact lenses, offering a long-term, eco-friendly alternative.

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The Compounding Impact of LASIK and Earth

The environmental benefits of LASIK extend far beyond the immediate reduction in plastic waste. By embracing this vision correction method, individuals can contribute to a ripple effect of positive change:

  • Reduced Manufacturing Footprint: The production of contact lenses requires significant energy and resources, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. By choosing LASIK, individuals can help decrease the demand for these products, indirectly reducing the associated environmental impact.
  • Preservation of Marine Life: Plastic pollution poses a severe threat to marine ecosystems, with contact lenses being a part of the problem. By eliminating the need for disposable lenses, individuals can play a role in protecting aquatic life from the dangers of plastic contamination.
  • Inspiration for Sustainable Choices: Choosing LASIK as a vision correction solution can inspire others to explore eco-friendly alternatives in various aspects of their lives, fostering a ripple effect of environmental consciousness.
LASIK can save the amount of plastic from being thrown away

Making a Lasting Impact

While LASIK may seem like a small step in the grand scheme of environmental conservation, its impact should not be underestimated. Every individual action, no matter how modest, contributes to shaping a more sustainable future for our planet.

This Earth Day, consider LASIK as a transformative decision that not only enhances your visual freedom but also aligns with your commitment to preserving the natural world for generations to come. By making this choice, you can celebrate the spirit of Earth Day while enjoying the convenience and clarity of vision that LASIK provides. Join the growing movement of individuals embracing LASIK as an eco-friendly solution, and together, we can create a future where vision correction and environmental sustainability go hand in hand.

Source:

Contact Lens Fast Facts. (2021, December 30). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/contactlenses/fast-facts.html

Does LASIK Eye Surgery Hurt?

Posted on by Lisa Scheibenzuber

LASIK eye surgery, a revolutionary procedure correcting refractive errors, has transformed countless lives by eliminating dependence on glasses and contacts. Yet, a lingering concern for many considering LASIK is, does LASIK hurt?

We understand this apprehension. The thought of any intervention on the eye can be daunting. However, we can assure you that LASIK prioritizes patient comfort with advancements minimizing discomfort significantly.

Understanding the LASIK Procedure

LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis uses a highly precise laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front portion of the eye, to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

The LASIK procedure: A Step-by-Step Look

  1. Anesthetic Eye Drops: To minimize discomfort, anesthetic eye drops are administered to numb the eye’s surface.
  2. Corneal Flap Creation: A specialized instrument called a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser is used to create a thin, hinged flap in the cornea.
  3. Corneal Reshaping: With the flap folded back, the excimer laser carefully reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to correct the refractive error.
  4. Flap Replacement: The corneal flap is then repositioned, allowing it to heal naturally and seal without the need for stitches. The entire LASIK procedure typically takes less than 15 minutes per eye. Discomfort is minimal and transient, easily managed with the numbing drops and relaxation techniques.

Comfort Measures in LASIK

While the idea of having a laser reshape your cornea may seem daunting, the truth is that most patients experience little to no pain during the actual LASIK procedure. This is primarily due to the anesthetic eye drops used to numb the eye’s surface. However, it’s important to note that some patients may experience a pressure sensation during certain stages of the procedure, such as when the corneal flap is created or when the excimer laser is applied. This pressure is typically brief and well-tolerated.

LASIK numbing eye drops

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Post-Operative Recovery

After the LASIK procedure, some patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort or irritation in the treated eye(s). Common post-operative symptoms include:

  1. Dryness: The creation of the corneal flap can temporarily disrupt the eye’s tear production, leading to dry eye symptoms like burning, stinging, or foreign body sensation. Artificial tears prescribed by your ophthalmologist can alleviate this until your eyes can fully heal.
  2. Light Sensitivity: The treated eye may be more sensitive to bright lights for a few days after the procedure. Wearing sunglasses can help manage this.
  3. Eye Fatigue: Reading, using digital devices, or other visually demanding tasks may cause temporary eye strain or fatigue.

These symptoms are usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter eye drops, lubricating ointments, and proper rest. Most patients experience significant relief within a few days, and complete recovery typically occurs within a week or two.

Minimizing Discomfort

To minimize discomfort during and after LASIK, it’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully. This may include:

  1. Pre-Operative Medications: Taking prescribed anti-inflammatory or anti-anxiety medications as directed to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.
  2. Proper Eye Care: Adhering to the recommended post-operative eye care regimen, including the use of prescribed eye drops and ointments.
  3. Resting and Avoiding Stress: Allowing your eyes to rest and avoiding strenuous activities or eye strain during the initial recovery period.

Consult with an Experienced LASIK Professional

Considering LASIK? Consultation is Key. Consulting with an experienced and reputable LASIK professional, like the professionals at TLC Laser Eye Centers, is crucial.  Our specialization in LASIK procedures, with over 2.3 million performed, allows us to provide personalized guidance, address your concerns, and ensure realistic expectations for both potential discomfort and the recovery process.

By following your doctor’s instructions and taking proper precautions, the vast majority of patients find that any discomfort associated with LASIK is manageable and well worth the benefits of improved vision and reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

Like any surgery, LASIK has risks and potential complications that are discussed during a surgical consultation prior to the procedure.  If you have any further questions, please consult with your eye doctor.

Individual Experiences May Vary

It’s important to note that every individual’s experience with LASIK may vary. Some patients may experience more discomfort than others, depending on their unique physiology, pain tolerance, and adherence to post-operative instructions.

LASIK vs. PRK: Understanding the Key Differences

Posted on by Lisa Scheibenzuber

For individuals wanting to shed the constraints of eyeglasses or contact lenses, refractive surgery presents a transformative opportunity. LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) are two prominent procedures that reshape the cornea, the eye’s outermost layer, to attain clearer vision. But with both vying for your consideration, selecting the optimal solution can be perplexing. We will distinguish the differences between LASIK vs PRK, providing clarity and insight.

LASIK: A Minimally Invasive Approach

The LASIK Procedure

LASIK boasts an ingenious two-step approach. First, a femtosecond laser creates a precise thin, circular flap in the cornea’s outermost layer (epithelium). This flap is gently folded back, exposing the underlying corneal stroma.  Next, the excimer laser meticulously ablates (removes) targeted amounts of corneal tissue, reshaping it to rectify refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The corneal flap is then gently repositioned and naturally adheres without sutures, accelerating the healing process.

Advantages of LASIK Surgery

1. Quick Recovery

Many patients experience a significant improvement in vision within 24 hours, with optimal results manifesting over a few days.

2. Predictable Outcomes

LASIK delivers precise results, with the majority of patients achieving their desired vision correction.

3. Enhanced Comfort

The creation of a corneal flap preserves the surface epithelium, leading to reduced post-operative discomfort.

4. Minimal Maintenance

Following LASIK, most patients enjoy long-term vision stability, minimizing the need for additional procedures.

Advantages of LASIK explained

LASIK Candidacy and Considerations

LASIK surgery is well-suited for individuals with moderate to severe refractive errors who desire rapid visual recovery. Candidates should meet certain criteria, including stable vision prescription, adequate corneal thickness, and absence of certain eye conditions such as keratoconus. While LASIK has revolutionized vision correction, it is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with thin corneas, severe dry eye conditions, or specific corneal irregularities may not be ideal candidates. Additionally, certain professions or activities that involve a high risk of eye injury may preclude the use of LASIK due to the potential for flap dislodgement.

PRK: The Resilient Alternative

The PRK Procedure

PRK adopts a more straightforward approach. The epithelium, the cornea’s outermost layer, is meticulously removed using an excimer laser or mechanical means. Similar to LASIK, the excimer laser meticulously ablates corneal tissue to rectify refractive errors. However, unlike LASIK, PRK doesn’t involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, a natural bandage (epithelial layer) regenerates over the treated area within a few days.

Advantages of PRK Surgery

PRK advantages explained
1. Corneal Preservation

PRK eliminates the risk of flap-related complications, making it a preferred choice for patients with thinner corneas or occupations that pose a higher risk of eye trauma.

2. Suitability for Thin Corneas

Since PRK does not require the creation of a corneal flap, it is often recommended for individuals with thinner corneas who may not be suitable candidates for LASIK.

3. Reduced Risk of Dry Eye

By avoiding the creation of a corneal flap, PRK reduces the risk of post-operative dry eye symptoms.

Candidate Suitability for PRK

PRK is often favored for individuals with thin corneas, certain corneal irregularities, or professions that pose a higher risk of eye trauma. The absence of a corneal flap eliminates the potential for flap-related complications, making PRK a suitable option for those who may not be ideal candidates for LASIK. Candidates should have realistic expectations regarding the recovery process, as visual recovery may be slower compared to LASIK.

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Unveiling the Key Distinctions: LASIK vs. PRK

While both LASIK and PRK culminate in improved vision, they diverge in their approaches and suitability for certain individuals. Here’s a closer overview of their core distinctions:

LASIK vs PRK

Candidate Selection: Who is Ideal for LASIK or PRK?

The suitability for LASIK or PRK hinges on several factors, including corneal thickness, the nature and severity of your refractive error, and your tolerance for discomfort. Here’s a glimpse into ideal candidates for each procedure:

LASIK: Well-suited for individuals with adequate corneal thickness and who prioritize a swifter recovery.

PRK: Ideal for those with corneas that are too thin for LASIK or individuals engaged in occupations or activities that could dislodge a LASIK flap (e. g., frequent contact sports).

The Ultimate Verdict: LASIK vs PRK?

Both LASIK and PRK surgeries offer effective solutions for correcting refractive errors and achieving clearer vision. While LASIK boasts rapid visual recovery and predictability, PRK provides a safer alternative for individuals with thinner corneas or occupations that predispose them to eye trauma. Ultimately, the optimal selection between LASIK and PRK hinges on a consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist. They will assess your corneal anatomy, refractive error, and overall eye health to determine the most suitable procedure for your unique needs and preferences. Don’t hesitate to voice any concerns or questions you may have throughout the consultation process.

By understanding the nuances of these procedures, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your unique needs and consulting with your ophthalmologist regarding their vision correction journey. Like any surgery, LASIK has risks and potential complications that are discussed during a surgical consultation prior to the procedure.  If you have any further questions, please consult with your eye doctor.

Sources:

LASIK — Laser Eye Surgery. (2023, December 11). American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik

What Is Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)? (2023, October 20). American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/photorefractive-keratectomy-prk

LASIK vs. Cataract Surgery: Can You Have Both?

Posted on by Lisa Scheibenzuber

Considering Cataract Surgery After LASIK?

Many people who have undergone LASIK eye surgery to correct their vision in their younger years wonder if they can still have cataract surgery later in life. The answer is YES!! What many people do not know is that you can have LASIK even after cataract surgery if you have a residual correction that needs refined.

Understanding the Difference:

  • LASIK Surgery: This procedure reshapes the cornea, the clear dome at the front of the eye, to improve your ability to focus light and achieve clearer vision.
  • Cataract Surgery: This procedure replaces the clouded natural lens of the eye, located behind the iris, with a clear artificial lens, restoring vision clarity.
LASIK and Cataracts

Cataract Surgery for Non-LASIK Patients:

For those who haven’t had LASIK, cataract surgery usually offers a straightforward and predictable outcome. The implanted lens can often replace the need for distance vision glasses, though reading glasses may still be required.

Cataract Surgery After LASIK:

Even with LASIK history, modern technology allows for precise eye measurements to ensure you have a  successful cataract surgery. It can effectively address vision concerns even for individuals who have undergone LASIK previously. While complete LASIK records are ideal for optimal lens selection, alternative approaches are available to achieve a successful outcome.

Seeking Professional Advice:

If you have further questions about LASIK, cataracts, or your individual eligibility for either surgery, consult a qualified eye care professional. They can assess your specific situation and provide personalized guidance.

Source:

Bishop, S. (2023, August 18). Cataract Surgery is Possible for Most People Who’ve Had LASIK. Mayo Clinic News Network. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/cataract-surgery-is-possible-for-most-people-whove-had-lasik/

LASIK Recovery Time: What to Expect

Posted on by Lisa Scheibenzuber

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a popular vision correction procedure that uses lasers to reshape the cornea, improving vision for those with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. While LASIK offers the promise of clearer vision without glasses or contact lenses, understanding the LASIK recovery time and potential side effects is crucial for making informed decisions.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect after LASIK eye surgery:

First few hours after treatment:

  • Temporary eye discomfort: You may experience some initial eye discomfort, such as a tingly sensation or slight dryness.
  • Increased tear production: Your eyes might produce more tears initially to aid healing and lubrication.
  • Temporary light sensitivity: You may be temporarily more sensitive to light, similar to having an adjusted camera lens.

Your doctor will provide eye drops to manage discomfort and a protective shield for overnight wear. Best thing to do?  Try and get some rest right after treatment.

24-48 Hours:

Schedule a quick follow-up visit with your eye doctor to ensure your eyes stay healthy and comfortable. During the appointment, they’ll perform a routine vision assessment and discuss any adjustments to your eye care routine, like potentially prescribing new eye drops or recommending artificial tears for additional comfort. You’ll be able to resume your normal activities right away, but it’s best to avoid strenuous exercise for 1-3 days to allow your eyes to fully recover.

1-3 Weeks:

  • Temporary vision adjustments: You may experience some temporary changes in your vision, such as slight blurring or fluctuations, as your eyes heal.  This has been reported to be similar to an old glasses or contact lens prescription.
  • Light sensitivity: You might notice some initial light sensitivity, which is normal and usually subsides quickly.

Up to 3 to 6 Months:

Expect your vision to steadily improve over the next few months, with many people achieving clear and stable vision around 3 to 6 months. Regular check-ins with your eye doctor will help them track your progress and address any questions or concerns you may have along the way.

Factors Affecting LASIK Recovery Time:

  • Flap dislocation: A rare complication where the corneal flap created during LASIK moves from its position. It requires immediate medical attention and can prolong recovery.
  • Dry eye: The most common side effect, causing irritation and discomfort. Symptoms usually subside within a month, but can persist in some cases.
  • Infections: Extremely rare, but following post-operative care instructions strictly minimizes the risk.

Tips for a Smooth LASIK Recovery:

  • Follow your doctor’s instructions meticulously.
  • Avoid lotions, creams, and makeup around the eye for 2 weeks, or as directed by your doctor.
  • Continue eyelash hygiene as instructed.
  • Refrain from swimming, hot tubs, and strenuous activities for the recommended period.
  • Protect your eyes from getting hit or rubbed, especially in the first few weeks.
  • Use artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated.
LASIK recovery days

Remember, LASIK recovery is a process, not an event. While most people experience significant vision improvement quickly, complete healing and stabilization can take up to 3 to 6 months. Consulting a qualified LASIK care expert and adhering to post-operative care guidelines are crucial for a successful LASIK experience.

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. As of 2018, over 9.5 million Americans have undergone LASIK surgery due to its convenience, good results, and high success rate.

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:

Bayba, M. (2024, January 11). LASIK Statistics – Safety and Success Rates in 2024. Vision Center. https://www.visioncenter.org/resources/lasik-statistics/

Refractive Surgery Council. “Is LASIK Safe? What You Need to Know,” October 13, 2022. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/is-lasik-safe/#:~:text=LASIK%20is%20one%20of%20the,of%20patients%20suffer%20complications%20LASIK.

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.

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

See Clearly in 2024: Lasik Eye Surgery Market Booms (7.7% CAGR). (n.d.). DataMIntelligence. https://www.datamintelligence.com/research-report/lasik-eye-surgery-market

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.

Are Regular Eye Exams Important After LASIK?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Eye Exams after LASIK Surgery

Many LASIK eye surgery candidates question if they need to continue seeing an eye doctor after they have their procedure. After all, you could have 20/20 vision or better after surgery, which means there’s no point in getting regular eye exams, right? Wrong. Even after LASIK surgery it is important to get a comprehensive eye exam at least every one to two years. In these exams, eye doctors do more than just check your prescription and prescribe contacts or eyeglasses, so it is necessary to keep up with them even after your LASIK procedure.

Your doctor will also check your overall eye health and for a multitude of potential problems such as: early signs of eye disease, focusing issues, refractive errors associated with age, and eye teaming problems or making sure your eyes work together and are properly aligned.

Since most people take their vision and visual health for granted and usually don’t notice that something is wrong until there is a bigger problem, it is essential to keep up with routine eye exams after LASIK eye surgery. This way, your eye doctor can detect any eye problems early on so that they can be remedied as soon as possible. Some people will also experience dry eyes and discomfort from allergies, and an eye doctor can prescribe eye drops to relieve these symptoms so you can enjoy the benefits of your LASIK surgery to the fullest.

eye exam

LASIK Eye Surgery: A Lifetime Commitment

By choosing to have LASIK surgery, you’ve already decided to live life with better vision, and annual visits to your eye doctor will help you enjoy those benefits for years to come. At TLC Laser Eye Centers, the TLC Lifetime Commitment® helps patients maintain the best possible vision throughout their lives by offering LASIK enhancements to eligible candidates. One of the main conditions of this program is to complete an annual eye exam with your TLC-affiliated eye doctor, making it even more important to continue with regular eye exams after LASIK eye surgery.

It is always important to consult with your eye doctor for the best exam schedule after LASIK eye surgery based on your personal eye health. Attending these appointments is the best way to make sure you can benefit from a lifetime of better vision.

Understanding Presbyopia & LASIK Eye Surgery

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Presbyopia is different from other vision problems because it affects everyone, eventually. Our eyes change as we age, and those changes eventually make it more difficult to focus on close objects. Reading can be especially challenging, and presbyopia is the main reason that most people over 45 years of age require reading glasses for up-close vision. LASIK eye surgery centers offer a number of popular options for treating presbyopia, and taking the strain out of close vision.

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How Presbyopia Works

When you are a child and a young adult, the lenses in your eyes have great flexibility, which makes it easier to adjust your focus for viewing close objects. Over time, your lenses begin to become more rigid, making it more difficult to focus. Most people will begin to feel symptoms of presbyopia around age 40, though the severity varies from person to person.

  • One of the first signs of presbyopia is strain while reading. You may find that you have to hold objects farther away than you would have in the past, in order to achieve the same level of focus.
  • Headaches are a common symptom, especially if you do a lot of reading for work or leisure. This is true whether you are reading from a screen, or a sheet of paper.
  • The effects of presbyopia grow more severe over time, and most people will have lost significant lens flexibility by age 65.
  • Since presbyopia happens gradually over time, it’s not always as easy to notice as other vision problems.

LASIK Eye Surgery Options for Treating Presbyopia

Reading glasses are a common option for addressing presbyopia, but they’re not a fit for everyone. Your work may make glasses impractical, or you may simply want a solution that’s less cumbersome. A number of vision correction options have proven effective for the task, and there is even a special tool for the job.

Monovision LASIK

  • Monovision LASIK is a solution for people with presbyopia. With monovision, one eye is corrected for far sight, and one is corrected for close sight.
  • The result is similar to what you would get from wearing bifocal glasses. Your eye doctor or LASIK specialist can help you simulate the effects of monovision, to see if it’s the right choice for you.

Presbyopia may affect everyone, but it doesn’t have to mean wearing reading glasses for the rest of your life. Contact a TLC laser eye surgery specialist to discuss your options for vision correction surgery.

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