FAQs About LASIK

Naturally, many patients interested in LASIK surgery still have many questions about the procedure. At Stars In Your Eyes Optometry, we have prepared the following set of Frequently Asked Questions to address the most common concerns you might have.

Why should I have LASIK through Stars In Your Eyes Optometry?

LASIK, or Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a very important, rewarding decision for many patients. Our overall mission at Stars In Your Eyes Optometry is to provide state-of-the-art care, education and options for our patients, whom we consider friends.

We extend this philosophy to our LASIK patients to include the newest generation of all-laser (more safe, comfortable and predictable) treatments and an experienced optometrist/surgeon team. Our lifetime commitment to our patients means that you will benefit from thorough and accurate education and counseling before, during and after your procedure.

Our doctor even goes with you to the procedure and holds your hand (literally) through the whole process. Patients find these immensely reassuring.

"I didn't get a chance to say thanks for being there [yesterday].  You helped keep me calm.  I'm seeing really well today and am so glad I did this.  Thanks for being a good doctor who is willing to take the time to make sure folks feel okay about what they're doing." DWD, Downtown Austin Attorney and Happy LASIK patient 2008

How is LASIK an improvement upon previous surgical methods?

LASIK is able to treat mild to severe amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism with greater accuracy, predictability and shorter recovery time. With minimal disruption to the overall integrity of corneal layers (compared to previous procedures), this quick and painless procedure has most patients noticing visual improvement in one to seven days.

While LASIK may be a new decision for you, the procedure itself is based upon refractive surgeries that have been around for over 40 years.

What are the side effects of LASIK surgery?

Like any surgery, LASIK involves risk. There are possible complications that can occur, which your doctor will discuss with you. The most reported side effects are increased dry eye symptoms- treated with artificial tears, slight under or over corrections-requiring a spectacle correction for certain tasks (i.e., driving at night) and an increased need for reading glasses in patients over 40 years of age (see below).

Will I ever need glasses again after LASIK?

Many patients in their 40s and 50s notice a change to their up-close vision as they get older. This focusing change to your vision is known as presbyopia and occurs no matter whether you choose to have LASIK or not.

Presbyopia involves the lens inside your eye, which is not involved in the LASIK procedure. Reading glasses and bifocal contact lenses can be successfully used by post-LASIK patients at the computer and for reading.

How much should I pay for LASIK?

It depends on which laser and what outcome you had in mind. Many patients are good candidates and many clinics will gladly promise a low initial price to get you in the door but there is a HUGE difference between a good outcome and an excellent one. You certainly want to spend your money wisely and not bargain your precious vision.

Your price should include all pre- and post-operative care for one year, a lifetime commitment for results (i.e., no-cost enhancements), the utilization of a FDA-approved laser, and an experienced optometrist/surgeon team to give you the peace of mind you deserve in your important decision.  

Is LASIK painful?

The procedure is quick and painless. Because the flap is lifted and the outer layer of the eye is undisturbed, there is little discomfort involved. A clear plastic shield is placed over the eye(s) and is worn until the next day for protection. Some patients experience some discomfort or dryness in the days following surgery.

When can I go back to work and when can I drive?

Everyone heals at a different rate. Many of our patients have surgery on a Thursday and return to work on Friday, while others take the weekend off. 

Will my vision be 20/20 after surgery?

As with any surgery, we cannot guarantee patients that their eyesight will be 20/20 after the procedure. The great majority receive legal driving vision or better. Some people with high levels of nearsightedness are happy to lower their lens prescription, some find that they only need their glasses for certain activities, and others have eliminated their glasses altogether.