Did you know that over 20 million people have had laser eye surgery since its FDA approval in 1999? This popular eye surgery has been healing vision-impaired adults for over 25 years now. If you wear contact lenses or glasses, you may have considered at some point having laser eye surgery to correct your vision. We’ve compiled a helpful guide with everything you need to know about LASIK eye surgery below. Keep reading to learn about your options.

What is LASIK eye surgery?

LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, which translates to “sculpting of the cornea.” With the help of an advanced laser, surgeons can precisely cut the dome-shaped tissue at the front of your eye (the cornea) to improve your vision. While glasses or contact lenses can help correct your vision, laser eye surgery permanently changes the shape of your cornea, so you can see clearly on your own.

What is LASIK eye surgery like?

The great news about LASIK eye surgery is that it’s painless and can be completed in under ten minutes. The part that uses the actual laser takes only about one minute per eye to complete. Most people have 20/20 vision the following day after using LASIK eye surgery.

Will LASIK eye surgery hurt?

As we mentioned above, LASIK eye surgery is a painless procedure. Anesthetic drops are inserted and a gentle lid holder is used to keep your eye open during the procedure. Most patients tolerate the quick procedure very well and are able to go home and rest easily for the rest of the day. 

What are the risks of LASIK eye surgery?

As with any elective surgery, there is always a small risk of complications. With refractive surgery, the most common complaint is dry eyes for a few months after the procedure. Your surgeon will recommend the right eye drops to use to keep you comfortable as your cornea heals. These symptoms typically clear up once your eyes are fully healed. Be sure to review any potential risks with your eye surgeon before undergoing the procedure.

How long does recovery take?

Most patients can resume normal activity the day after their procedure. During the first week, you are advised to avoid lifting heavy weights, strenuous exercise, or swimming. Your vision will continue to improve in the next few months, but most healing is done in one month. 

Who is eligible for LASIK eye surgery?

If you currently wear eyeglasses or contact lenses and are between the ages of 21-39 you are probably eligible to receive LASIK eye surgery. Up to 98% of individuals qualify for the procedure. Individuals with severe dry eye or Keratoconus are not eligible for the surgery. Ask your optometrist if you are a candidate for LASIK at your next eye exam. 

Visit Eye2Eye

If you are considering LASIK eye surgery, Eye2Eye is here to help. Eye2Eye is a trusted LASIK eye surgery provider. We handle your pre-screening evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate for laser eye surgery. We also handle post-surgery aftercare, follow-up exams, and annual follow-up care.