WHAT IS LASIK?
LASIK is short for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. It is the most popular refractive or light-based surgical procedure in the field of ophthalmology. Millions of men and women across the world have chosen this remarkable surgery and have been thrilled with its outcomes. Laser vision correction surgery can improve or completely resolve myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism by strategically changing the curvature of the cornea, allowing light to center correctly on the retina. Some of the best things about LASIK are its remarkable quickness and virtually pain-free delivery, and that it offers long-term clear vision while eliminating the need for corrective lenses, like glasses and contacts.
At The Eye Center of Southern Indiana, our mission is for everyone to have sharp vision and healthy eyes. We understand that blurry vision can often have a serious impact on quality of life with regard to schoolwork, professional life, or even recreational activities. Glasses and contacts can become expensive over time, and sometimes your eyes can react to contacts negatively, causing burning or itching. If you plan a visit to our Bloomington, IN office at your earliest convenience, you can receive a LASIK evaluation with a highly skilled specialist to learn if LASIK could be the best treatment for you. You might be days away from reducing or even eliminating your reliance on prescription lenses.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF LASIK?
There are many reasons patients in Bloomington, IN choose to undergo LASIK surgery at The Eye Center of Southern Indiana. Treatment is safe, minimally invasive, and does not require a long recovery period. Our eye care professionals make sure to provide the most cutting-edge technologies to produce results that exceed your expectations. Some key benefits of LASIK include:
- Significant improvement in refractive errors
- Reduced reliance on glasses and contact lenses
- High success rate for long-term clear vision
- Quick recovery times and minimal downtime after surgery
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR LASIK?
Ideal candidates for LASIK are over 18 years of age, in good general health, have had a stable eyeglass or contact lens prescription for at least one year, and have no eye conditions that could impact the success of the surgery. The Eye Center of Southern Indiana can perform a thorough LASIK evaluation to ensure your candidacy. Inform your eye doctor of any medications you are taking, as well as any vision conditions that may run in your family. We also need to take measurements of your corneas using state-of-the-art technology to map their curvature.
HOW DOES LASIK WORK?
At The Eye Center of Southern Indiana, LASIK is a very quick, effective treatment. For the most part, the procedure takes fewer than ten minutes total. Before beginning, the patient's eyes will be totally numbed with no-sting eye drops to ensure there is no discomfort. Then, an invisible suction ring will be put around each eye so that the patient is unable to blink. Once the eye is held in place, your doctor or an experienced team member will utilize the laser to introduce a microscopically thin incision in the cornea, creating a corneal flap. We will then carefully fold the flap back in order to use the laser to change the curvature of the lower layer of corneal tissue. When this is done, we will move the flap back into place. Remarkably, it will then heal itself back together without the need for sutures. Nearly all individuals who receive LASIK can see clearly within 1 – 2 days. Within a few hours after the surgery is done, patients can be released to return home from The Eye Center of Southern Indiana's outpatient surgical facility. It's important to rest following the procedure because as the numbness begins to wear off, patients usually start to feel a sensation similar to having dirt in their eyes, in addition to some burning. This is a natural part of the corneal flap repairing itself. These feelings can result in a severe desire to blink or touch the eyes, which can cause damage. It is vital not to rub them, even lightly, for about two weeks as they heal. Taking a nap is the best way to get through the first day of the recovery period.
LASIK FAQS
Is LASIK permanent?
While the results of LASIK eye surgery are long-lasting, this is not considered a permanent procedure. That's because LASIK cannot stop natural aging from changing your vision. If you have any new prescription changes in the future, call The Eye Center of Southern Indiana for a new assessment. We can help you see clearly for years!
Does LASIK protect me from other eye diseases?
LASIK does not stop the development of glaucoma, cataracts, or other eye conditions. Though safe and effective, LASIK is only designed to treat refractive errors like nearsightedness and farsightedness. If you have any new symptoms after getting a laser procedure, contact us so we can catch any issues before they develop into something serious.
How soon can I drive after LASIK?
Most patients can drive within 1 – 3 days, but it depends on the recovery timeline as directed by our team. During a follow-up appointment in Bloomington, IN, we will monitor your vision and make sure your eyes are healing properly. We then clear you to drive and perform other activities.
How much does LASIK cost?
The exact cost of the procedure will vary from patient to patient depending on their own unique needs relating to their vision. After a brief consultation, we'll be able to better assess your particular situation and offer an accurate estimate of the total cost of your LASIK procedure.
Who can't receive LASIK?
While LASIK is generally considered to be adaptable for many people, there are a few who may not be considered candidates for the procedure. For example, if you have scarring from a previous eye injury or surgery, you will not likely be considered for LASIK. In addition, there are a number of other factors, including corneal disease, eye infections, and more.
Can LASIK fix astigmatism?
Yes. LASIK's ultra-precise lasers allow our talented staff to reshape your cornea, eliminating complications caused by astigmatism. Better yet, in most cases, this can be done in just one single LASIK treatment.
LONG-TERM CLEAR VISION TODAY
Modern innovations in LASIK technology are enabling countless new people to have laser vision correction. Schedule an evaluation at The Eye Center of Southern Indiana to see if you're a good candidate for this procedure. Other patients may be better candidates for different vision correction options, including PRK. R. The Eye Center Of Southern Indiana team of doctors are eager to provide our Bloomington, IN patients an outstanding experience in their pursuit of better vision, from consultation to results.