Save on LASIK Eye Surgery with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) in 2024
Did you know you can potentially save on LASIK eye surgery at The LASIK Vision Institute using pre-tax dollars? Here’s how a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) can help you achieve clearer vision without breaking the bank.
What is an FSA and How Can It Help with LASIK?
An FSA is a workplace benefit account that allows you to set aside pre-tax money for qualified medical expenses, including LASIK surgery. This reduces your overall taxable income and saves you money on the procedure.
2024 FSA Contribution Limits:
The IRS sets annual contribution limits for FSAs. For 2024, the maximum contribution is $3,200 (up from $3,050 in 2023). Some employers may also contribute to your FSA, further increasing your savings.
Using Your FSA for LASIK:
Check Your Eligibility: Confirm with your employer if they offer an FSA and what the contribution limit is for 2024.
Plan Your Contribution: Estimate the cost of LASIK surgery and choose an FSA contribution amount that covers it (or a significant portion).
Schedule Your Consultation: Contact The LASIK Vision Institute to schedule a free consultation. Discuss financing options with the LASIK specialist, including how your FSA can be used.
Key Points to Remember:
FSA funds are typically available at the beginning of the plan year, allowing you to plan for LASIK early.
Some employers offer grace periods or carryover options, letting you use unused funds from the previous year.
If you have questions about your FSA, including grace periods or carryover rules, contact your employer’s HR department.
Ready to See Clearly with LASIK?
Schedule your free consultation at The LASIK Vision Institute today! We can help you determine if LASIK is right for you and explore how your FSA can be used to make it more affordable.
Sports Eye Safety for LASIK Patients: Unleash Your Active Side with Confidence
The Thrill of Sports, the Fear of Injury
As the warm weather beckons, the call to embrace outdoor sports and activities grows stronger. However, for those who have undergone LASIK surgery, the exhilaration of physical pursuits can be overshadowed by concerns about eye safety. Fear not, for with the right precautions and guidance, you can savor the joys of your favorite sports while protecting your precious vision.
Heeding the Wake-up Call: Sports Eye Safety Month
April marks Sports Eye Safety Month, a timely reminder of the importance of prioritizing eye protection during athletic endeavors. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, a staggering 90% of sports-related eye injuries can be prevented by taking the necessary precautions. This statistic serves as a rallying cry for all athletes, especially LASIK patients, to equip themselves with the knowledge and tools to safeguard their eyes.
The LASIK Patient’s Guide to Sports Eye Safety
For those who have undergone LASIK surgery, ensuring eye safety during sports is paramount. Here are essential tips to help you embrace an active lifestyle with confidence:
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Guidance
Before engaging in any physical activity, it is crucial to consult with your LASIK surgeon. They will provide personalized recommendations on when it is safe to resume sports and what precautions you should take. Adhering to their guidance is the first step toward protecting your vision and ensuring a successful recovery.
2. Invest in Proper Protective Eyewear
Regular eyeglasses or sunglasses are not designed to withstand the impact and rigors of sports. Invest in sport-specific protective eyewear that meets the appropriate safety standards for your chosen activity. Look for eyewear that is shatter-resistant, well-ventilated, and offers adequate coverage for your eyes.
3. Know the Risks of Your Sport
Each sport carries its own set of risks when it comes to eye injuries. Sports that involve high-speed projectiles, such as baseball, hockey, or racquetball, pose a higher risk of eye trauma. Physical contact sports like basketball, soccer, or martial arts also increase the chances of accidental eye pokes or blows. By understanding the specific risks associated with your sport, you can better prepare and take appropriate precautions.
4. Go Beyond Minimum Requirements
While sports organizations may provide guidelines for protective equipment, it is essential to go above and beyond the minimum requirements. These guidelines may not always account for the unique needs of LASIK patients or the latest advancements in eye protection technology. Consult with your eye care professional to ensure you have the most effective and up-to-date protective gear.
5. Seek Expert Advice
Your LASIK surgeon and eye care professionals are invaluable resources when it comes to sports eye safety. Don’t hesitate to seek their advice on the best protective eyewear, risk assessment, and any concerns you may have about participating in specific sports or activities.
Embracing an Active Lifestyle with Confidence
By following these essential tips and prioritizing sports eye safety, LASIK patients can unleash their active side with confidence. Embrace the thrill of your favorite sports while safeguarding your vision, ensuring that your LASIK investment remains a lasting source of clarity and enjoyment for years to come.
Millions have ditched their glasses and contacts thanks to LASIK surgery, the leading laser vision correction procedure. But how does it work? Here’s a simple breakdown in 4 steps:
LASIK Eye Surgery – 4 Easy Steps
First Step: Schedule Your Free LASIK Consultation
It all starts with a free consultation! Book yours easily online or call The LASIK Vision Institute (LVI). Our nationwide network of LVI Centers offers flexible scheduling to fit your busy life.
Second Step: Free Consultation & Evaluation
During your free consultation, our LVI team will explain everything you need to know about LASIK, our advanced technology, and answer any questions you might have. We’ll also perform a comprehensive eye exam using state-of-the-art scanning technology to determine if LASIK is the perfect solution for your vision.
Third Step: Your LASIK Procedure (Faster Than You Think!)
The LASIK procedure itself is a breeze, typically taking only 15 minutes. At your appointment, your surgeon will use numbing drops and create a thin, hinged flap in your cornea using specialized equipment. Then, with the aid of a computer, they’ll precisely reshape your cornea with the LASIK laser, correcting your vision. The flap is then gently placed back in position – no stitches needed! You’ll likely notice an improvement in your vision almost immediately.
Fourth Step: Recovery & Enjoying Clear Vision!
The final step is a short recovery period. After your procedure, wear sunglasses and have a friend drive you home. Get some rest for about 24 hours and avoid straining your eyes by skipping TV, computer use, or reading for a while. Your surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments, but most patients can return to work the next day. You’ll also need to avoid eye makeup and certain products for a few weeks.
Ready to ditch your glasses and see the world clearly? Schedule your free LASIK consultation with The LASIK Vision Institute today!
You’ve heard the hype about carrots and beta carotene, but plenty of other supermarket staples have been shown to offer significant eye health benefits. Next time you’re in the meat and veggie aisles, look for these ingredients to make a meal that’s more than eye candy.
1. Spinach Omelet
Eggs and spinach are packed with lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that may guard against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Make this savory omelet for breakfast, lunch or dinner to invest in your eye health.
Ingredients:
3 eggs (or 1 egg, 3 egg whites)
1 tablespoon parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon mozzarella cheese
¼ teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon olive oil or canola oil
1 cup fresh spinach, torn
½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
½ cup diced tomato (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped onion
a. Beat egg (and/or egg whites).
b. Mix in cheeses and spices.
c. Heat oil in skillet over medium heat.
d. Add spinach to skillet, cook till wilted.
e. Add remaining veggies to skillet along with egg mixture.
f. Cook till eggs set (about 10-15 minutes). Serve.
2. Salmon and Collard Greens
It’s no secret salmon comes with an abundance of Omega-3 fatty acids. This type of fat is infamously healthy and often comes in pill supplements—but did you know it might also support visual development, retinal function and reduced dry eye? Sear yourself some of this fish (or substitute mackerel) and combine with down-home collard greens (or another leafy green) for an extra boost of lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that may guard against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
4 6-ounce salmon fillets
2 teaspoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges (garnish)
For the Greens:
2 pounds collard greens (stems removed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves minced garlic
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 cup vegetable stock (water OK)
½ red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
a. Add oil to nonstick pan on high heat.
b. Season salmon with salt and pepper.
c. Place salmon (skin-side down) on pan. Reduce heat to medium.
d. Cook salmon at least 5 minutes on one side. (If you lift the fish too soon it won’t sear, and it will stick to the pan.)
e. Turn fillets and cook 3-5 minutes more until barely pink in the center.
f. Meanwhile in a large pot heat olive oil on medium heat.
g. Add garlic and crushed red pepper.
h. When garlic is softened add stock (or water). Bring to a simmer.
i. Add onion, collard greens, and vinegar to pot. Cook 10-15 minutes till collard greens are tender.
j. Divide collard greens on four plates.
k. Bed one salmon fillet on each plate of greens and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve immediately.
3. Turkey Sandwich with Roasted Bell Pepper
Turkey is a major carrier of niacin, a B vitamin. Studies have shown niacin may have cataract-prevention benefits. Pile this Thanksgiving staple into a hefty sandwich and slip in some bell pepper, providing not only a crunch but also Vitamin C, which may help prevent age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Ingredients:
1 large bell pepper (any color)
4 slices rye or sunflower-seed bread (bread you have lying around OK)
Spinach or lettuce
¼ pound turkey
4 fresh basil leaves (optional)
Mayonnaise (optional)
a. Deseed, slice and roast bell pepper in the oven or on a grill.
b. Spread bread with mayonnaise (optional) and top with spinach, onion, turkey, peppers and basil.
c. Top with remaining bread slice. Makes 2 sandwiches.
4. Peanut Butter Sandwich with Carrot Snack
Nuts, including peanut butter, are filled with Vitamin E. Vitamin E protects eye cells from free radicals. Spread a few tablespoons of peanut butter onto sandwich bread (make it sunflower-seed bread or rye bread for extra Vitamin E) and scoop a helping of carrots onto your plate. The carrots add beta carotene, a type of Vitamin A that may promote healthy night vision.
Ingredients:
2 slices bread (rye or sunflower-seed preferred)
2 tablespoons peanut butter
Handful carrot sticks
1 tablespoon applesauce (optional)
1 banana (optional)
2 tablespoons Nutella (optional)
2 tablespoons marshmallow fluff (optional)
a. Spread bread with peanut butter.
b. Spread on any optional additional ingredient (applesauce, banana, Nutella, marshmallow fluff).
c. Toast if desired.
d. Plate with carrot sticks and serve.
5. Liver and Onion (and Carrots)
Rich in zinc, which may aid night vision and may help prevent cataracts, liver combines naturally with onions. Add some carrots to your cooking pot for a soft bite of beta-carotene, known also as a possible health aid for night vision. And what’s not to love about this recipe, which includes bacon?
Ingredients:
2 lbs beef liver
8 slices cooked bacon (halved to 16 pieces)
½ cup carrot slices
½ cup celery pieces
1 onion, sliced
1 lb stewed tomatoes
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
1 bay leaf
a. Place liver in crock pot and lay bacon pieces on top.
b. Mix together remaining ingredients and pour over liver.
c. Cover and cook 6-8 hours in crock pot on low heat.
6. Ahi Tuna and Steamed Broccoli
Tuna is a major carrier of fatty acids, specifically omega-3 acids. These have been shown to help visual development, retinal function and treatment of dry eye. Sear yourself some tuna steaks and add a side of steamed broccoli or spinach for a fix of lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that may guard against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Ingredients:
2 5-ounce tuna steaks
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
1 or 2 bunches broccoli
a. Season tuna steaks with salt and cayenne.
b. Add butter and olive oil to nonstick skillet on medium-high.
c. Cook peppercorns till soft (about 5 minutes and they will pop).
d. Gently place tuna steaks in skillet. Cook at least 2 minutes per side.
e. Rinse broccoli and break into bite-size florets. Remove stem.
f. Boil 1 inch water in pot. Add broccoli to steamer or, if no steamer, directly to water. Cook 5 minutes or till soft.
g. Plate broccoli and tuna steaks. Serve immediately.
7. Pizza with Anchovies, Bell Pepper, Spinach
Pizza can provide a lot of nutrients, from carbs to protein to healthy fat and beyond, to vitamins and minerals, depending on your topping. Try this recipe for a dose of omega-3 fatty acids (may help retinal function and to treat dry eyes), of Vitamin C (which might protect against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts) and of lutein and zeaxanthin, which offer similar benefits as Vitamin C.
Ingredients:
1 pizza crust
1 can tomato sauce
10 oz cheese (mozzarella, Italian, asiago, etc.)
2 anchovy fillets
3 cups baby spinach
1 bell pepper, sliced or diced
3 cloves minced garlic
1 cup diced onion
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
Additional toppings to taste
a. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
b. Spread tomato sauce on pizza crust and sprinkle with cheese.
c. Top with additional toppings and season to taste.
d. Sprinkle a final layer of cheese.
e. Bake 10-15 minutes.
8. Kale Chips
We know what you’re thinking. But give these a try. Kale is packed with lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that may guard against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. They are also easier than pie to make! Grab some kale at the store, and get ready to make these chips with cupboard items and a few spare minutes that you already have lying around.
Ingredients:
4 cups kale
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
a. Tear kale into chip-sized pieces and rinse.
b. Dry kale and toss with olive oil. (You can use your hands.)
c. Cover pan with parchment paper and lay kale in single layer.
d. Bake at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes or until dry.
e. Salt to taste and enjoy!
Whether or not you’ve had LASIK surgery, eye and vision care are essential. In addition to eating for good eye health, be sure to get annual eye exams. Annual eye exams are crucial for eye and overall health.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a revolutionary laser vision correction procedure that has transformed the lives of millions by eliminating dependence on glasses and contact lenses. This highly sought-after surgery boasts a remarkable success rate, but navigating the LASIK landscape can be daunting for potential patients. To ensure an informed decision, here’s a comprehensive guide that delves deeper than the basics, empowering you to ask insightful questions and embark on your journey to clear vision with confidence.
What are the steps involved in LASIK?
Numbing Comfort: Your ophthalmologist (a surgeon specializing in the eye) will administer anesthetic eye drops to ensure pain-free comfort throughout the procedure.
Creating a Corneal Flap: Using a femtosecond laser (a highly precise laser technology), a thin, hinged flap is created within your cornea, the transparent dome at the front of your eye. This flap acts as a temporary cover during the reshaping process.
Reshaping the Cornea: A second laser, the excimer laser, precisely reshapes the underlying corneal tissue. This customized ablation (removal) corrects the specific refractive errors causing your vision problems.
Flap Repositioning: The meticulously crafted corneal flap is then gently repositioned onto its original bed. The inherent adhesive properties of the corneal tissue allow the flap to naturally adhere without sutures.
Bilateral Completion: The entire procedure is then meticulously repeated on your other eye. Remarkably, LASIK surgery typically takes only around 15 minutes to complete for both eyes.
What does laser eye surgery correct?
LASIK can correct nearsightedness (Myopia) which is difficulty in seeing distant objects clearly, farsightedness (Hyperopia) the inability to clearly see near objects and astigmatism or blurred vision at all distances due to an irregularly shaped cornea. By reshaping the corneal tissue with the excimer laser, LASIK corrects the way light enters your eye, enabling you to achieve clear vision without corrective lenses.
Am I a candidate for LASIK?
Determining your suitability for LASIK is a crucial step. Several factors influence candidacy, which your ophthalmologist will thoroughly evaluate during a comprehensive pre-operative consultation. Here are some key considerations:
Age: Generally, LASIK is recommended for individuals above 18 whose vision prescription has remained stable for at least a year.
Overall Health: Good general health is crucial for optimal healing and successful outcomes.
Corneal Thickness: The cornea must possess adequate thickness to undergo LASIK safely.
Eye Conditions: Certain pre-existing eye conditions, such as dry eye or uncontrolled eye diseases, may require alternative vision correction solutions.
An in-depth discussion with your ophthalmologist is vital to determine if LASIK aligns with your unique needs and expectations.
What are the surgeon’s qualifications?
LASIK is a delicate surgical procedure, and selecting a highly skilled and experienced ophthalmologist is paramount. Your ophthalmologist should be board-certified. Additionally, you should inquire about the surgeon’s experience in performing LASIK procedures. More experienced surgeons offer greater proficiency and abilities to navigate potential challenges. Investigate the technology employed by the LASIK center and opt for centers equipped with advanced laser technologies like femtosecond lasers for enhanced precision and safety. Finally read patient reviews to gain insight into the overall patient experience.
What should I expect after LASIK?
While healing timelines can vary slightly, most individuals experience minimal discomfort following LASIK. Here’s a general overview of the recovery process:
Initial Hours: You might experience mild light sensitivity, tearing, and a sensation of something in your eye. These are temporary side effects that typically subside within a few hours.
Rest and Recuperation: Following LASIK, prioritizing rest is crucial. Your ophthalmologist will likely recommend avoiding strenuous activities or rubbing your eyes for a specific timeframe.
Medication: Your doctor may prescribe medicated eye drops to promote healing and prevent infection. Diligent application of these drops is essential for optimal recovery.
Follow-Up Appointments: Scheduled follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist are vital to monitor progress and ensure proper healing. These appointments typically occur within 24-48 hours after surgery and continue at designated intervals.
Returning to Normal Activities: The timeframe for resuming normal activities varies depending on your individual healing process and your ophthalmologist’s recommendations. Generally, most people can return to work and light duties within 1-3 days after LASIK.
Long-Term Vision: While some patients experience immediate improvement in vision, for others, it may take a few days or even weeks for vision to stabilize and reach its full potential. LASIK results are typically long-lasting, but age-related vision changes can occur over time.
How much does LASIK cost?
The cost of LASIK surgery can vary depending on several factors, including where you are geographically located. The overall experience of the surgeon can influence the overall cost as well as the type of laser technology used during the procedure.
LASIK: A Gateway to Freedom from Glasses and Contacts
LASIK surgery empowers you to shed the limitations of glasses and contact lenses. By choosing a qualified ophthalmologist, diligently following pre- and post-operative instructions, and managing expectations, LASIK can pave the way for a life of clear, unencumbered vision. Schedule a consultation with a LASIK specialist today to explore if LASIK is the key to unlocking your visual freedom
LASIK Eye Surgery: Achieving Freedom from Glasses Without Breaking the Bank
LASIK eye surgery has become a revolutionary vision correction procedure, offering the gift of clear, sharp vision without the hassle of glasses or contacts. But let’s face it, cost can be a significant concern. At our LASIK center, we understand that, and we’re committed to making this life-changing procedure accessible to everyone.
LASIK Cost vs. Glasses (and/or Contact Lenses)
The cost of new glasses includes frames, lenses, and an eye exam, which can add up to hundreds of dollars. Vision insurance will cover some of that, but, most times, there are still out-of-pocket costs. That cycle repeats if your prescription — or fashion — changes. Broken glasses? Need a pair of prescription sunglasses? With most insurance plans, you’ll be paying for those on your own.
Depending on your prescription and type of lenses, contact lens wearers can pay roughly anywhere from $250 to $700 annually. In addition, be sure to factor in the cost of the solutions needed for contact lens. Over time, that adds up, too. And, for people who prefer to have both contacts and glasses, the costs are even greater as many insurance programs will not cover both.
Depending on how long you have been wearing glasses or contacts, LASIK might cost less than what you have already paid to improve your eyesight.
The Affordability of Modern LASIK
Gone are the days of LASIK being an out-of-reach luxury. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of how you can make LASIK a reality for your budget:
Financing Options Tailored to You: We offer a multitude of financing options to seamlessly integrate LASIK into your financial plan. Our team walks you through the process, securing financing with terms that fit your comfort level. Imagine spreading the cost over manageable monthly payments, often comparable to your utility bill.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Many employers offer these tax-advantaged accounts, allowing you to set aside pre-tax dollars for qualified medical expenses. LASIK often falls under this category, enabling you to leverage these funds and significantly reduce the upfront cost.
Credit Card Rewards and Financing: Certain credit cards offer attractive rewards programs, allowing you to earn points or miles towards travel, merchandise, or even statement credits when used for LASIK surgery. Explore these options to potentially offset some of the cost while enjoying the benefits of modern LASIK.
Discount Opportunities: We regularly offer special promotions and discounts on LASIK procedures. Be sure to inquire about current offers to potentially save even more. Additionally, some vision insurance plans may provide partial coverage for LASIK. We can help you navigate these possibilities and maximize any available discounts.
Beyond Affordability: The Unmatched Value of LASIK
While cost is an important factor, it’s crucial to consider the long-term value proposition of LASIK. Here’s what you gain by investing in your vision:
Freedom from Daily Hassles: Imagine a life free from constantly searching for misplaced glasses or dealing with uncomfortable contacts. LASIK offers unparalleled convenience and peace of mind.
Enhanced Confidence: Clear vision can significantly boost your confidence in social and professional settings. LASIK empowers you to see the world clearly and confidently.
Cost Savings Over Time: Consider the ongoing expenses associated with glasses and contacts – replacement lenses, cleaning solutions, eye doctor appointments. LASIK eliminates these recurring costs, making it a cost-effective investment in the long run.
Scheduling Your Consultation: The First Step to Clear Vision
We understand the importance of a thorough consultation before embarking on LASIK. Our team of experienced professionals will address your questions, conduct a comprehensive eye exam, and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for LASIK. Additionally, we’ll provide a personalized cost breakdown based on your specific needs and chosen financing option.
Don’t let concerns about affordability prevent you from experiencing the life-changing benefits of LASIK. Contact our LASIK center today to schedule a consultation and explore the path towards clear vision and a brighter future.
The ability to see clearly without corrective lenses significantly enhances your daily life. From enjoying hobbies and sports to simply appreciating the beauty of the world around you, LASIK unlocks a whole new level of visual freedom.
LASIK vision correction might seem like a big decision, but the benefits can be life-changing. Here are 3 reasons why LASIK can be more than just improved eyesight:
1. Boost Your Productivity at Work
Struggling to see your computer screen can be a major productivity drain. Studies show uncorrected vision issues can hinder workplace performance. Imagine tackling tasks with improved vision and impressing your colleagues! LASIK surgery, particularly custom procedures like Custom Wavefront LASIK, can help you see your work clearly and excel in your career.
2. Unleash Your Active Side
Love sports or outdoor adventures? Glasses and contacts can be a hassle during physical activities. LASIK offers freedom from these limitations. Picture yourself hitting the trails or playing your favorite sport without worrying about glasses slipping or contacts drying out. Reclaim your active lifestyle and enjoy your hobbies to the fullest.
3. Confidence Boost & Freedom to Live Life
Many LASIK patients report feeling a newfound confidence after experiencing clearer vision. It’s more than just seeing better; it’s about embracing life spontaneously. Enjoy the simple things – waking up and seeing clearly, swimming without worrying about losing contacts, or trying on sunglasses without wondering if they fit your prescription. LASIK can empower you to live life on your terms, with confidence and freedom.
Ready to see the difference LASIK can make? Schedule a free consultation today!
Many people wonder if LASIK eye surgery can be used to permanently change eye color. The answer is, quite simply, no; LASIK does not alter the color of the eye. However, there are a few situations where eye color can change that do not involve LASIK eye surgery.
Illness or Medication
The part of the eye structure that gives one’s eye color is called the “iris”. It can be found behind one’s cornea (the outermost clear covering of the eye) and the amount of pigment cells contained by the iris will determine the exact eye color seen by others.
Some medications can cause iris depigmentation (where the iris becomes lighter) or hyperpigmentation (where the iris becomes darker). One common medication linked to changing eye color is LATISSE®. LATTISE® is used to grow and lengthen eyelashes. In rare cases, it has caused a permanent increase in brown pigment in the iris.[i]
Some disorders of the eyes can also lead to permanent color changes in the iris via persistent inflammation or pathological cellular growth. Therefore, if you experience an unintended change in your eye color, it could indicate an eye health issue and you should make an appointment with your eye doctor to have a check-up.
Cosmetic Eye Color Change Surgery
Not to be confused with LASIK eye surgery, cosmetic laser eye surgery is a newer experimental procedure that uses a laser to induce permanent changes in one’s eye color. A laser is used to deteriorate the brown pigment cells in the iris, creating a lighter eye color. At this time, it is only possible to change eyes from brown to blue this way. However, this procedure has yet to undergo clinical trial testing in United States and is considered controversial due to potential risks such as glaucoma.[ii] More clinical data will be required to determine its safety and other long-term effects that it may have on treated eyes.
Colored Contact Lenses
As per the current recommendation of American Academy of Ophthalmology, the safest way to temporarily alter eye color is to use colored contact lenses prescribed by your eye doctor.ii[CC1] Colored contact lenses can range from subtle colors, meant to enhance your existing eye color, to dramatic colors, including intense hues and colors not found naturally (like violet). These colored contacts can be prescribed with your prescription (to both enhance vision and eye colors) or to be prescribed without optical power (serving only to change your eye color such as after your LASIK procedure). Keep in mind that, just like any other contact lenses, they must be fitted, cleaned, stored, and used appropriately. Leaving contacts in for too long or failing to clean or store them in the right solution can lead to eye health issues.[iii]
LASIK Eye Surgery vs Contact Lenses
Contact lenses may seem like a convenient solution at first, but the process is much more complicated than popping your contacts in at the start of the day. If contact lenses aren’t properly maintained each day, there could be more serious consequences to your eye health. This is true whether you’re wearing traditional contact lenses, or extended wear contacts.
Even if you’re meticulous about contact lens maintenance, there is the cost of the contacts themselves, the cost of solutions, the constant risk of losing a contact lens, and the time required to maintain your contacts each day. These inconveniences may have you searching for a better solution.
Ultimately, if you do choose to alter or enhance your eye color, you should do so safely. If you choose to explore LASIK eye surgery, you can experience improved vision while keeping your eye color perfectly intact!
In conclusion, does LASIK change your eye color? The short answer is a resounding “no.” LASIK is focused on correcting vision, not altering eye color. LASIK surgery is intricately designed with the sole purpose of rectifying vision imperfections—be it nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism—thereby enhancing your overall vision. LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct how light rays enter and are focused onto the retina. This meticulous process is miles away from influencing the iris, which is the part of the eye responsible for its color. Hence, the notion of LASIK affecting eye color is a misconception that deviates from the procedure’s true intent and capabilities. The technology and methodology behind LASIK are honed for vision correction, steering entirely clear from the domain of altering the aesthetic aspects of the eye, such as its color.
FAQs On Eye Color Change:
Is it possible for eye color to change naturally over time?
Yes, it’s possible, especially in children. Eye color can change in the first few years of life due to the development of melanin.
Can eye color vary with mood or lighting?
While it might seem like your eyes change color with mood or lighting, what’s actually changing is how the light is absorbed and reflected by the iris.
How common is it for adults to experience a change in eye color?
It’s quite rare for adults to see a significant change in eye color. Minor variations might occur, but a complete color change is highly uncommon without intervention.
Can diet or health changes affect eye color?
There’s no scientific evidence to suggest that diet or general health changes can alter eye color significantly.
What is the most unusual eye color?
Green is the rarest eye color, found in only about 2% of the world’s population. It’s the result of a low level of melanin combined with the Rayleigh scattering of light.
[i] Can Latisse cause my eyes to change color. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://care.getroman.com/hc/en-us/articles/360025255852-Can-Latisse-Cause-My-Eyes-to-Change-Color-
[ii] Dang, S. (2015). Laser surgery to change eye color untested for safety risks. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/news/laser-surgery-to-change-eye-color
[iii]American Optometric Association. (2019). Healthy vision and contact lenses. Retrieved from https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/contact-lenses
Have you ever misplaced your eye glasses? Or, have you had a contact lens fall out? LASIK surgery may help you avoid these frustrating situations. Before going to your LASIK eye surgery consultation there are some eligibility requirements that can guide you in deciding if LASIK is the right procedure for you. LASIK laser eye surgery can correct common eye problems like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
Eligibility requirements for LASIK surgery candidates:
While most people are safe candidates for LASIK eye surgery, your safety is the #1 priority of our team of LASIK surgeons and eye care professionals. Some of the conditions and criteria they look at to ensure they can achieve the safest, best outcomes possible from your LASIK eye surgery include:
Your eye prescription should fall within certain prescription limits. Although with modern LASIK technology many prescriptions can now be safely treated (including some high degrees of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism), certain eye prescriptions are still outside of the range that LASIK physicians can safely treat.
Certain eye diseases and conditions, including keratoconus, severe cataracts and severe cases of amblyopia, current infections, and certain retinal and optic nerve diseases, may render you a medical non-candidate for LASIK today.
LASIK Candidates Should Have Overall Good Health
You must be at least 18 years old.
If you have diabetes or certain autoimmune diseases, they must be controlled to be a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery.
Certain health conditions may require medications that can slow or prevent healing. You should tell your surgeon about all the medications you are taking and have taken in the last year.
Because certain medications can slow healing, you should tell your LASIK physicians about medications you are taking or have recently taken, so they can help ensure your healing is safe and fast, as recovery from LASIK eye surgery should be.
While hormonal fluctuations caused by pregnancy can impact vision stability, please consult with your LASIK physicians and health care professionals about how soon after you welcome your new addition to the family you can enjoy your LASIK. We know fussing with your glasses or contact lenses in the middle of the night when you’re exhausted and want to crawl back into bed as quickly as possible is no fun!
Take Our Free LASIK Candidacy Quiz Below:
Finding A LASIK Surgeon Near You
We understand choosing the right LASIK eye surgeon is a huge part of the final decision making process. We take the time for you to get to know your doctor and to understand your specific eye needs to ensure successful results. Through our network oftrustedLASIK Eye Surgeons across the country, we offer patients reliable and affordable access to the benefits of exceptional eye care.
LASIK Eye Surgery Vision Centers Near You!
Find a Location
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
How often do we truly appreciate our eyes and what they do for us? Imagine your eyes as a biological camera, meticulously capturing snapshots of the world and transmitting them to your brain for processing and interpretation. According to Medical News & Life Sciences, humans have binocular vision, meaning that both the eyes create a single combined image. Optical components create an image, which further gets perceived and interpreted by the brain via connecting neurons. The entire machinery works in quite an intricate manner.
Let’s dive into the intricate workings of each part of the eye and reveal how they impact your vision:
Orbit: The eye is located in a bony socket within the skull, known as an orbit. Six extraocular muscles are located in the orbit, which attach to the eye to enable movement similar to looking side-to-side, up and down, and rotate the eye.
Sclera: The white, visible area of the eyeball is called the sclera. It is durable and acts as a protective layer, covering most of the surface of the eyeball. The extraocular muscles are attached to the sclera.
Conjunctiva: A thin layer of tissue covers most of the front surface of your eye and acts as a lining inside of your eyelid. When the eyes look red, it means that the blood vessels within the conjunctiva are larger than normal.
Cornea: The front of the eye holds the cornea, which is like a glass lens that moves light into the eye. This clear part of the eye focuses the light so the image can reach the back of the eye. When taking a closer look at an eye, the cornea is the clear, bulging surface that forms the shape in the front of the eye.
Lens: This part of the eye works in conjunction with the cornea to focus the light on the retina which is located in the back of the eye. The lens can change shape by getting thicker or thinner to adjust the clarity of what the person is seeing as it hits the retina.
Ciliary Muscles: Around the lens, a circle of small muscles works to change the shape of the lens. These muscles relax or squeeze depending on the distance of the object. For example, if you are looking at something up close, then the ciliary muscles enlarge the lens. The muscles relax to thin the lens when you are focusing on distant objects.
Retina: The retina is located in the back of the eye and contains rods and cones, helping you distinguish between a variety of colors (black and white both included). This area of the eye is actually a group of light-sensing cells, collectively referred to as the retina. When the image you are seeing is in the retina, it is turned into an electrical message that is sent to the brain.
Macula: Located within the retina and helps with central vision so you can see details in the various images.
Optic Nerve: When the electrical messages are received in the retina, they are sent along the optic nerve to reach the brain.
Vitreous Humor: In the space between the retina and lens, this area is filled with a transparent, jelly-like substance. It helps to maintain the shape of the eye and protect the structure of the eye.
Iris: Every person has a unique eye color that can be seen in the middle of the eye. This pigmented area is known as the iris, and the color is inherited genetically. The Iris also controls the amount of light that can enter into the eye.
Pupil: In the center of the iris is the pupil, which is where the light enters. When you are in a dark environment, the pupils get bigger to adjust your vision. In brighter environments, the pupils get smaller to manage the amount of light that comes in. The diameter of the pupil usually ranges between 3 and 7 mm, depending on the light conditions.
Eyelids: Eyelids block the light when you are sleeping and have an instinctual mechanism to blink, so the eyes stay moisturized.
Tear Glands: In the upper eyelid, small glands provide the tears that keep the surface of the eyes moist and clean. This moisture is important for protecting your eye from damage.
Eyelashes and Eyebrows: The lashes and brows around your eye work to block dust and sweat from getting in your eyes.
The different parts of the eye are all unique, but each is equally important to help you see. As changes occur in one or more parts of the eye, it can have an impact on your vision. For example, when the curve of the cornea changes, it affects the way the light is reflected in the retina, which in turn makes it difficult to focus on the things that you are seeing.
Other eye conditions can impact vision as well. Corrective lenses can be worn, such as glasses or contact lenses, which can adjust the way the light enters the eye and hits the retina. Or, some people choose LASIK eye surgery to improve their vision.
So, the next time you marvel at a breathtaking sunset or lose yourself in a captivating book, take a moment to appreciate the silent heroes – your eyes – that tirelessly work to paint the world around you in vivid detail.
However, if you are annoyed with having to wear itchy contacts or foggy glasses, we would like to share the benefits of LASIK eye surgery with you. Our team at LASIK experts are excited to meet you. Give us a call at 866.229.4570 or schedule a free consultation below!
Are You Curious About Your Eligibility For LASIK?
When considering LASIK, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced and qualified eye care professional who can assess individual needs and recommend the most suitable technology. Technological advancements and preferences among surgeons can vary, so discussing specific options with a knowledgeable eye care professional is essential for making informed decisions about vision correction surgery.
Your vision is very important to us and we want to make sure you have the information you need. Start your journey to better vision by scheduling a free LASIK consultation today! Find a Lasik Vision Institute location near you!
Find a Location Near You!
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
