What is LASIK?
LASIK surgery is a type of refractive surgery that corrects common refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Using a computer-controlled laser, the procedure creates a thin corneal flap with a femtosecond laser, lifts it, and then uses an excimer laser to reshape the corneal stroma.
The flap is then repositioned to heal naturally without the need for stitches. As a form of laser refractive surgery, LASIK enables patients to achieve their best corrected vision without the need for corrective lenses.
Ideal Candidates for LASIK
LASIK patients should have realistic expectations and understand that while the procedure dramatically improves vision, it may not eliminate the need for reading glasses later in life. You may be a good candidate for LASIK if you:
- Are 18 years or older with a stable vision prescription
- Have healthy eyes free of corneal infection, diffuse lamellar keratitis, or corneal ectasia
- Have sufficient corneal thickness
- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have no history of rheumatoid arthritis, optic nerve disease, or other autoimmune conditions
- Are not experiencing active vision changes
Pre-LASIK Surgery Recommendations
Before undergoing LASIK, your eye surgeon will perform a comprehensive preoperative evaluation to assess your visual acuity, corneal thickness, and overall eye health. You may be asked to stop wearing contact lenses for several days to weeks, depending on lens type, as they can affect the natural shape of the cornea. A detailed eye map is created to guide the laser beam during surgery for precise corneal reshaping.
The LASIK Procedure
The LASIK procedure itself typically takes less than 15 minutes per eye and is relatively painless. A suction ring is placed on the eye to hold it steady while the femtosecond laser creates a flap in the cornea. You may feel a light pressure sensation during this step. Next, the excimer laser is used to reshape the corneal tissue, correcting the curvature to focus light rays properly. The corneal flap is gently laid back into place, where it heals on its own without the need for sutures.
Results and Recovery
Most patients notice improved vision within a few hours of surgery, with clear distance vision achieved by the next day; full stabilization can take a few weeks. You’ll be prescribed eye drops to prevent dryness and infection, and we’ll provide aftercare instructions to support healing. Temporary side effects, such as double vision, dry eyes, halos, or glare in dim light, are common and usually subside as the eyes heal.
Specialized Services
Blade Free Lasik Eye Surgery
CarlinVision offers blade-free LASIK using all-laser, laser-assisted technology for enhanced precision and safety. This approved LASIK method eliminates the use of blades to create the corneal flap, instead using a femtosecond laser. Blade-free LASIK is especially beneficial for patients with thin corneas or concerns about flap complications.
Learn MoreRefractive Lens Exchange
For patients who may not qualify for LASIK, Refractive Lens Exchange offers an excellent alternative. This procedure is similar to cataract surgery, in which the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial one to correct refractive errors. RLE is ideal for patients over 40 experiencing presbyopia or those seeking permanent freedom from glasses.
Learn MorePhakic ICLs
For patients with thin corneas or severe refractive errors who are not suitable candidates for LASIK, Phakic Intraocular Lenses (ICLs) provide an alternative option. These lenses are implanted inside the eye without removing the natural lens, providing sharp, corrected vision without reshaping the corneal tissue.
Learn MoreSchedule an Appointment
When you’re ready to take the next step toward visual freedom, contact CarlinVision to schedule your personalized LASIK consultation. We’ll evaluate your eye health and recommend the best form of laser vision correction to meet your goals.
Schedule TodayFAQs
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How long does LASIK last?
For many patients, the results of LASIK are long-lasting and permanent. However, vision changes related to aging may still occur, and some people may eventually need reading glasses.
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Can LASIK correct all vision problems?
LASIK is highly effective for refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but may not be suitable for conditions like a cone-shaped cornea or optic nerve damage.
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What if I’m not a LASIK candidate?
If you’re not eligible to undergo LASIK, options like Refractive Lens Exchange or Phakic ICLs may be more appropriate for your vision correction needs. We’ll guide you toward the right solution.
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How long is the LASIK procedure?
LASIK surgery is a relatively quick procedure. Typically, the laser portion takes approximately 5–10 minutes per eye. However, you should plan to be at our office for approximately 1-2 hours to allow time for preparation, the procedure itself, and post-procedure instructions.
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Does LASIK surgery hurt?
No, LASIK surgery is generally not painful. Prior to the procedure, numbing eye drops are applied to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the treatment. You may feel mild pressure during the procedure, but significant discomfort is uncommon.
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What should I avoid after LASIK?
After LASIK surgery, it is important to avoid rubbing your eyes for at least 1 week to prevent displacement of the corneal flap. You should also avoid wearing eye makeup and avoid dirty environments for 4 days following the procedure. In addition, we recommend limiting screen use for at least 24 hours and avoiding strenuous or sweaty exercise for approximately 1–2 weeks to allow proper healing.
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When will I see an improvement in my vision after LASIK?
Most patients notice an improvement in their vision within 24–48 hours following LASIK surgery. However, it may take several weeks for the eyes to fully stabilize. Final visual results may continue to improve for up to six months.
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What is the recovery time with LASIK?
Recovery following LASIK is typically rapid. Most patients experience significantly improved vision within 24 hours and can return to normal daily activities within 1–2 days. While initial healing occurs within 24–48 hours, complete visual stabilization may take 3–6 months.
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Does insurance cover LASIK?
Because LASIK is generally considered an elective procedure rather than a medically necessary one, it is typically not covered by insurance. However, we do accept CareCredit, which offers up to 24 months of interest-free financing options for qualified patients.
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Are there any side effects with LASIK?
As with any surgical procedure, LASIK may involve some side effects, although most are temporary and improve during the healing process. The most common side effects include dryness, halos, glare, light sensitivity, and mild gritty sensation in the eyes.
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Can I drive home after LASIK surgery?
No, patients should not drive themselves home after LASIK surgery. You will need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home following the procedure.
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What vision issues does LASIK address?
LASIK surgery corrects common refractive errors, including nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea, LASIK improves how light focuses on the retina, allowing many patients to achieve clearer vision without glasses or contact lenses.
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Will I still need glasses after LASIK surgery?
For many patients, LASIK significantly reduces or eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, some individuals may still require glasses for certain activities, such as night driving, or may need reading glasses later in life due to natural age-related vision changes.
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