3 ways LASIK vision correction can improve your life
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!
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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!
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In most cases, LASIK eye surgery leads to good results, with minimal complications. In some cases where quality of your vision decreases over time, or your results don’t match the original treatment expectations, a procedure called a LASIK enhancement may be required. After proper clinical examinations by our doctors, he or she can explain to you how a LASIK enhancement could help your experience. If needed, a LASIK enhancement is a quick, minimally invasive procedure which can address the potential issues with your vision after laser eye surgery. The rate of patients who need enhancements is low, but it’s important to speak with your LASIK surgeon if you feel that an enhancement is needed.
LASIK Enhancement: What Is It, and When Is It Needed?
Fluctuations in vision quality can be a normal part of the early recovery process for LASIK, especially in the first weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will keep a close eye on your recovery through follow-up visits, to make sure that your recovery is progressing as expected. Some patience is required to ensure that you receive the maximal treatment benefits, but vision tends to stabilize relatively quickly after surgery. Once the initial recovery period is complete, there are a few signs that can tell you if an enhancement might be necessary:
Are you having difficulty driving at night, or performing other tasks that require a high degree of visual precision? If these symptoms persist after the customary recovery period, it may be time to speak with your LASIK surgeon about an enhancement procedure.
Is your vision substantially blurry for more than three months after having LASIK eye surgery? Persistent blurred vision after you have recovered from laser eye surgery may be a sign that an enhancement is needed.
Do the results of your procedure not match the original treatment expectations? It’s crucial to speak with your surgeon about what results to expect before your procedure, because every patient is different. Understanding what to expect beforehand can help avoid surprises, and give you a point of comparison to decide whether it’s time to talk to your surgeon about an enhancement after the healing process is complete.
While the need for a LASIK enhancement is a relatively uncommon occurrence, it’s a good idea to speak with your laser eye surgery team about their enhancement policy before having surgery. Some providers do not charge an extra fee if an enhancement is needed, but enhancement policies can vary significantly between different providers.
In some cases, due to the needs of the individual patient, an enhancement may not be recommended after surgery. There are other ways to deal with visual changes that may arise. If you’re unable to have a LASIK enhancement for any reason, speak with your surgeon about the other options available.
When an enhancement is needed, the good news is that the enhancement procedure is very similar to the first LASIK procedure. In fact, it even uses the same excimer laser to provide this quick procedure, which typically requires only minimal corrections compared to the original LASIK treatment.
The recovery process is also similar, and your laser eye surgery team will provide detailed instructions for how to take care of your eyes after your enhancement is complete. It is important to follow your laser eye surgeon’s instructions as closely as possible, to avoid complications and achieve the desired outcome. While the need for a LASIK enhancement is rare, understanding the process is an important step in preparing for LASIK eye surgery.
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LASIK Surgery Age Limit: Breaking the Vision Barrier
Imagine bidding farewell to those bothersome glasses or itchy contacts and embracing the world with impeccable vision through LASIK, also known as Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis. The dream of visual freedom is within reach for millions. But one of the most commonly asked questions about LASIK eye surgery is, does my age exclude my eligibility for LASIK? Let’s dive in and debunk common LASIK myths and answer questions.
Dispelling the Age Myth
There’s a common misconception – that there’s an official age limit for LASIK. Let’s set the record straight – there isn’t. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, individuals aged 18 and over are eligible for LASIK eye surgery.
Your eyes, unlike fine wine, may not necessarily improve with age. While they mature gracefully, LASIK surgeons recommend or prefer that their patients are between the ages of 18 and up. Below 18, your prescription may change often which is why LASIK surgeons prefer to wait until your prescription stabilizes.
What Qualifies A Person As A Good Candidate For LASIK Eye Surgery?
Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
General health: Certain health conditions may require medications that can slow or prevent healing. LASIK candidates must be in good general health, and should not have certain health problems, including uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune or take any medication that may compromise the immune response.
Nursing/Pregnancy: Candidates should not be nursing or pregnant when undergoing the LASIK procedure. Hormones may affect the stability of your prescription, so pregnant or nursing women are not eligible to pursue LASIK surgery until three menstrual cycles after nursing has been discontinued
Contacts: Prior to your LASIK surgery consultation and LASIK procedure, you must not wear contact lenses for a certain length of time. The precise length will be determined by your doctor on an individual basis. This ensures corneal stability and accurate assessment of your prescription prior to the LASIK surgery procedure.
Can I Have LASIK Eye Surgery If I’m Over 40?
Absolutely! Although, around the age of 40, a person’s eyes start to change again, LASIK can still address nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Many people around 40 years of age, start to need reading glasses due to a condition known as presbyopia. While LASIK does not correct presbyopia, some people with the condition decide to have monovision. Monovision is a technigue that has been around for centuries. It simply means that one eye is corrected for better near vision and the other eye corrected for better distance vision. Believe it or not, the images are blended together and your brain automatically decides what image to focus on depending on the task.
Does LASIK Eye Surgery Hurt? No, and Here’s Why
In order to understand why LASIK causes little or no pain, it helps to understand a bit about how laser eye surgery works. The goal of LASIK is to gently reshape the cornea, treating only very, very small portions of tissue, by using a precise laser. Throughout the process, your LASIK surgeon will also take every step to ensure that you are comfortable.
Local Anesthetic – Before your LASIK eye surgery begins, your LASIK specialist will use eye drops to numb the surface of your eyes. These eye drops feel just like the type that you’d normally use to lubricate dry eyes, but contain a numbing agent so that you shouldn’t feel anything, except some pressure, during your LASIK procedure.
No Sedation – With LASIK, you don’t have to worry about heavy sedatives, receiving injections of anesthetics, or “going to sleep” during the procedure. Those eye drops really do all of the numbing that you need, and the lack of heavy general anesthesia means you don’t have to worry about that foggy, groggy feeling after your LASIK surgery is complete.
During LASIK Surgery – During surgery, the first step is creating the flap. You may feel a pressure sensation, but it is more of an odd or uncomfortable feeling than a painful one. Your eyelids will be held open with a special tool during the procedure, and while this may feel a little strange it is unlikely to cause any pain.
Excimer Laser – The cool beam of the excimer laser used to perform LASIK eye surgery is incredibly precise, and guided by a computer which maps the structure of your eyes down to a microscopic level. During the portion of LASIK when your cornea is being reshaped, you actually shouldn’t feel any discomfort at all.
In conclusion, LASIK surgery knows no strict age limits. It’s about understanding your eyes, considering your lifestyle, and making informed choices at any age. Embrace the journey to better vision, and remember – age is just a number when it comes to breaking the vision barrier!
Are You Ready To Start Your LASIK Journey?
Your vision is very important to us and we want to make sure you have the information you need. Start your journey toward better vision by scheduling a free LASIK consultation today! We understand that choosing the right LASIK eye surgeon is a significant part of the decision-making process. This is why we want to take the time to get to know you and understand your specific needs to provide you with exceptional service.
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Q: How long does it take to recover from LASIK surgery?
A: The initial healing process after LASIK typically takes about 24 to 48 hours. However, it may take several weeks for your vision to stabilize fully. During this time, you may experience some minor pain, itching, or discomfort as your eyes heal.
Q: Is LASIK painful during the LASIK procedure?
A: While LASIK is not entirely pain-free, most patients do not experience any pain during the procedure. Eye drops are used to numb the surface of the eyes, and the lack of heavy sedation means patients won’t experience grogginess or a foggy feeling afterward. During the procedure, patients may feel some pressure and discomfort, but not pain.
Q: Is LASIK safe?
A: LASIK is a safe and effective procedure for most patients. However, like any surgery, it does carry some risks. Potential complications include infection, inflammation, or problems with the flap. These risks are rare and can usually be treated with medication or additional surgery if needed.
Q: Can LASIK be done on both eyes at the same time?
A: Yes, LASIK can be performed on both eyes at the same time. This is typically the preferred method, as it allows for a more symmetrical correction of vision.
Q: Is LASIK covered by insurance?
A: LASIK is generally considered an elective procedure and is not typically covered by insurance. However, some insurance plans may offer partial coverage or discounts for LASIK surgery.
As of 2021, it has been estimated there are approximately 38.4 million people with diabetes in U.S. population.[i] We often get questions about diabetes and if the diagnosis automatically disqualifies one’s candidacy for LASIK. Many patients will be happy to learn that the simplified answer is “NO”. However, there are additional clinical criteria that are required for a diabetic patient to qualify for LASIK.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a metabolic disease which causes a person’s blood glucose (or blood sugar) to become too high. A hormone called Insulin, made by the pancreas gland in the body, helps with the cellular transport of glucose from blood stream into cells where glucose can be properly utilized for energy. In the case of a diabetic patient, one’s body either makes little to no insulin or does not use insulin well. This leads to the accumulations of glucose and corresponding glycation end products in one’s blood stream.
As unutilized glucose molecules and the corresponding glycation end products accumulates, diabetes can damage any organ system in the body and lead to various health issues, including heart attack, stroke, nerve damages, kidney diseases, visual impairment and even blindness.
The risks of diabetic ocular complications increase when the condition is not tightly controlled. It is generally recommended for diabetic patients to maintain blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and body weight at the clinical target levels prescribed by their own diabetic care physicians. Below are examples of ocular complications more commonly associated with diabetes[iii] :
Diabetic retinopathy – Retina is the inner tissue lining in the back of each eye that contains the light-sensing photoreceptor cells responsible in producing visual signals. Diabetes can weaken retinal blood vessels to cause bleeding, tissue swelling (diabetic macular edema) and subsequent visual deterioration that may or may not be reversible. If left untreated, prolonged inflammation and eventual cellular ischemia can result in permeant retinal damages and irreversible blindness
Cataract – The crystalline lens (“the lens”) inside of an eye acts like a magnifier to help focus images on to the retinal tissue where the photoreceptor cells are located. Cataract commonly refers to the occurrence when the lens becomes too cloudy to transmit sufficient light to the retina. In diabetic patients with poorly controlled blood sugar, not only can cataract occur at a younger age, it is also more likely for the lens to temporarily or permanently change its shape (due to tissue edema or swelling). This can lead to fluctuations in one’s vision and destabilize one’s prescriptions for glasses or contacts
Glaucoma – The visual signals produced by retinal photoreceptor cells in each eye are transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve pathway. Glaucoma threatens the health of the optic nerve cells and negatively impacts one’s vision and field of view. Diabetic patients have increased risks for glaucoma; if not detected and treated early, irreversible visual damages can occur
Can I have LASIK If I Have Diabetes?
FDA (The Food and Drug Administration) recommends diabetes to be considered as a relative contraindication for LASIK, which means diabetic patients may still qualify for LASIK pending how tightly controlled their diabetic conditions are. Since FDA initially made their recommended guidelines, there also has been more research demonstrating good LASIK safety and efficacy in diabetic patients who have tightly controlled blood sugar without evidences of both ocular complications and significant system complications.[iii], [iv]
Therefore, while having diabetes does not automatically disqualify a diabetic patient from LASIK surgery, it does mean that LASIK specialists have more clinical requirements to considered before determining if a diabetic patient can be a suitable LASIK candidate. In general, your LASIK specialist will assess the stability of glasses or contact lens prescriptions, your overall eye health and the current status of your diabetic conditions.
What are the factors to consider for LASIK eligibility as a diabetic?
First, your LASIK specialist will consider how long you have had diabetes. The longer you’ve had diabetes, the more risk there is for developing complications like diabetic retinopathy and fluctuating glasses or contact lens prescriptions.
Next, your LASIK specialist will examine your eyes, including a dilated retinal exam, to ensure eye health and rule out diabetic retinopathy, cataract and other diabetic eye diseases. A comprehensive eye exam is also important in determining the stability of your glasses or contact lens prescriptions. Keep in mind that LASIK surgery will offer the maximal long-term visual benefits only if your vision changes are unrelated to your diabetic condition.
Finally, your diabetes will have to be well managed in order to qualify for LASIK. This determination will at least include how well controlled your blood glucose has been in the last 6 to 12 months, which is why you will be asked to provide the lab results of your recent HbA1C (Hemoglobin A1C) tests. Your LASIK specialist may also wish to communicate with your diabetes managing physician(s) to ensure that your diabetic control is on target.
Does having Type 1 versus Type 2 diabetes affect my eligibility for LASIK?
No, it does not. There is no supporting data to correlate disparities in LASIK outcomes between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetic patients.iii Therefore, the same aforementioned pre-operative considerations will apply to both patient groups.
Does diabetes affect my recovery from LASIK surgery?
Diabetes is associated with delayed healing and thus has a higher theoretical risk of post-surgical infection. However, there are no large-scale studies to determine if this relationship of increased post-surgical infectious risk in diabetic patients can be extended to eye surgeries.[v] Additionally, due to advancements in LASIK surgical technologies, healing process after LASIK has also improved.
The shorter healing process of LASIK is especially advantageous when compared to the alternative laser refractive procedure called PRK, which requires a longer healing period. Thus, diabetic patients who qualify for laser vision correction surgery are often better suited for LASIK after factoring in their potentials for delayed healing.
Finally, dry eye is a potential side effect for all LASIK patients. Fortunately, this finding is often a temporary post-surgical event as majority of the LASIK patients are expected to return to their baseline presentations within the first 6 to 12 months.[vi] It has also been shown that dry eye incidence after LASIK has diminished given surgical advancements in LASIK.[vii] Nevertheless, given diabetic patients may experience delayed corneal healing, it is possible that dry eye symptoms after LASIK may be more severe in diabetic patients.
Often, dry eye can be managed by increasing the use of eye drops after the procedure and many medical treatment options for dry eyes also exist today. Diabetic patients are recommended to discuss this clinical consideration with their LASIK specialists and follow the post-operative instructions given.
When should I resume my diabetic eye exams after LASIK?
After enjoying clearer vision after your LASIK surgery, it is important to remember that your vision and overall eye health can still be affected if you don’t continue to manage diabetes. And your risk of developing systemic and/or ocular complications can still increase with the duration of disease. In addition to seeing your family doctor and/or internist for your regular diabetic exams, it is also recommended for you to have routine comprehensive eye exam with your eye doctors at least once a year.
An experienced LASIK provider and surgical team to individualize your LASIK procedure in order to achieve your best visual results. If you have diabetes, this tailored treatment planning process should include assessment of how well controlled your diabetes is as well as ensuring that your vision and overall eye health have not been affected by diabetes prior to LASIK.
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[i] American Diabetes Association. Statistics About Diabetes. https://diabetes.org/about-diabetes/statistics/about-diabetes.
[ii] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2016). What is diabetes? Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetes
[iii] American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2015). LASIK in patients with diabetes. Retrieved from https://eyewiki.aao.org/LASIK_in_Patients_With_Diabetes_Mellitus#cite_note-one-1
[iv] Cobo-Soriano R, Beltrán J, Baviera J. LASIK outcomes in patients with underlying systemic contraindications: a preliminary study. Ophthalmology. 2006 Jul;113(7): 1118.e1-8.
[v] Ata A, Lee J, Bestle SL, Desemone J, Stain SC. Postoperative hyperglycemia and surgical site infection in general surgery patients. Arch Surg. 2010 Sep;145(9):858-64.
[vi] Shoja MR, Besharati MR. Dry eye after LASIK for myopia: Incidence and risk factors. Eur J Ophthalmol. 2007 Jan-Feb;17(1):1-6.
[vii] Salomão MQ, Ambrósio R Jr, Wilson SE. Dry eye associated with laser in situ keratomileusis: Mechanical microkeratome versus femtosecond laser. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2009 Oct;35(10):1756-60.
As you learn more about LASIK vision correction, you’re sure to have some questions about the cost of LASIK eye surgery. To make LASIK as accessible as possible, The LASIK Vision Institute offers a number of options to help patients manage the cost of vision correction. Ahead, we’ll help you understand the cost of LASIK, along with the financial tools available for fitting vision correction into your budget.
Financing your LASIK vision correction doesn’t have to be complicated. We always aim to offer competitive, affordable pricing, and provide financing or savings options to help meet your needs. Here are a few of the most popular tools for covering the cost of LASIK eye surgery:
Clear LASIK Pricing – With the LASIK Vision Institute, you never have to guess about the cost of your procedure. During your free LASIK consultation, we’ll review your LASIK cost based on your prescription and vision correction needs. We’ll also be happy to answer any questions you may have about the procedure and how we make LASIK more affordable.
Financing Options – Our financing programs give you the flexibility to fit a payment plan into your budget. Most of our patients qualify for one of our financing options, and we’ll work with you to identify the best financing plan for your needs.
Insurance Coverage Discounts – Did you know that your vision or health insurance may help pay for your LASIK vision correction? The LASIK Vision Institute also offers an insurance matching program, and will match your insurance company’s contribution for up to 20 percent of the procedure’s cost. Consult your individual policy or your company’s HR department to learn more about insurance coverage for LASIK.
HSA and FSA – Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) offer an income tax-free option to save for qualified medical expenses. Using funds from your HSA or FSA to cover your LASIK cost is simple, and you’ll have an opportunity to learn about how much of these funds you can apply toward your procedure during your LASIK consultation. Not sure if you have an FSA or HSA account? Ask your employer about opportunities to enroll.
Tax Refunds – Expecting a tax return this year? Use your tax refund to help pay for LASIK! Many of our patients use their tax returns to help offset the cost of their procedure and make LASIK at The LASIK Vision Institute even more affordable.
If you don’t see a financing or savings option that fits your needs, don’t worry! We work hard to make LASIK eye surgery affordable for everyone, and we’ll work with you to find a solution for your budget.
Common FAQs About LASIK:
Q: How long does it take to recover from LASIK surgery?
A: The initial healing process after LASIK typically takes about 24 to 48 hours. However, it may take several weeks for your vision to stabilize fully. During this time, you may experience some minor pain, itching, or discomfort as your eyes heal.
Q: Is LASIK painful during the LASIK procedure?
A: While LASIK is not entirely pain-free, most patients do not experience any pain during the procedure. Eye drops are used to numb the surface of the eyes, and the lack of heavy sedation means patients won’t experience grogginess or a foggy feeling afterward. During the procedure, patients may feel some pressure and discomfort, but not pain.
Q: Is LASIK safe?
A: LASIK is a safe and effective procedure for most patients. However, like any surgery, it does carry some risks. Potential complications include infection, inflammation, or problems with the flap. These risks are rare and can usually be treated with medication or additional surgery if needed.
Q: Can LASIK be done on both eyes at the same time?
A: Yes, LASIK can be performed on both eyes at the same time. This is typically the preferred method, as it allows for a more symmetrical correction of vision.
Q: Is LASIK covered by insurance?
A: LASIK is generally considered an elective procedure and is not typically covered by insurance. However, some insurance plans may offer partial coverage or discounts for LASIK surgery.
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LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) are both refractive surgery procedures designed to correct common vision problems, such as myopia (nearsightedness). Both procedures aim to reshape the cornea to improve vision, but they differ in their approach and certain aspects of the surgical process. Here’s a detailed comparison of LASIK vs SMILE:
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis):
Procedure:
Flap Creation:
How It Works: A thin flap is created on the cornea using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser.
Corneal Reshaping: The flap is lifted, and the underlying cornea is reshaped using an excimer laser.
Recovery Time:
Quick Visual Recovery: Patients often experience rapid visual improvement within the first 24 hours
Stabilization: Full stabilization of vision may take a few weeks.
Postoperative Discomfort:
Mild Discomfort: Patients typically experience minimal discomfort the first few hours after treatement .
Suitability:
Common Refractive Errors: Suitable for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
Presbyopia: Can be combined with monovision to reduce the need for reading glasses after treatment
Pros:
Rapid Visual Improvement: Quick recovery and often immediate improvement in vision.
Minimal Discomfort: Patients usually experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.
Cons:
Flap-Related Complications: Although rare, flap-related complications may include dislodgement or inflammation or stopping the procedure for safety.
Dry Eyes: Some patients may experience temporary dry eyes.
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction):
Procedure:
Corneal Lenticule Creation:
How It Works: A femtosecond laser is used to create a lenticule within the cornea, which is then extracted through a small incision.
No Flap Creation: Unlike LASIK, no corneal flap is created.
Recovery Time:
Extended Visual Recovery: Visual recovery is slower compared to LASIK.
Stabilization: Full stabilization of vision may take several weeks to months.
Postoperative Discomfort:
Mild Discomfort: Patients may experience mild discomfort during the initial healing phase.
Suitability:
Myopia Correction: Primarily designed for the correction of myopia.
Corneal Thickness: May be suitable for individuals with thinner corneas or those not eligible for LASIK.
Pros:
Minimally Invasive: SMILE involves a small incision and no flap creation, potentially reducing complications.
Potential Preservation of Corneal Strength: Early studies indicate that the SMILE procedure aims to preserves more corneal tissue, which may benefit the structural integrity of the cornea.
Cons:
Limited Availability: SMILE may not be as widely available as LASIK.Extended Visual Recovery: Visual recovery is slower compared to LASIK. Similar complications to LASIK: In studies, complications can be similar to LASIK including infection, dry eyes, and changes in vision.Potential for Dry Eyes: While reduced compared to other procedures, SMILE can still cause temporary dryness.
Cost: The SMILE procedure can cost significantly more than LASIK or PRK.
Choosing Between LASIK and SMILE:
Corneal Thickness: If you have a thinner cornea, SMILE may be a safer option.
Flap Creation Preference: Some individuals may prefer the absence of a corneal flap, making SMILE a suitable choice.
Quick Recovery: If rapid visual recovery is crucial, LASIK may be preferred.
Both LASIK and SMILE are effective refractive surgery options, and the choice between them depends on individual factors, patient preferences, and the surgeon’s recommendation. Consulting with an experienced ophthalmologist is crucial to determine the most suitable procedure based on your unique needs and circumstances.
Schedule A Free LASIK Consultation At One of Our LASIK Vision Centers Near You!
If you’re interested in learning morning about LASIK vision correction, schedule your free consultation at on of our local LASIK Vision Institute locations to speak with your LASIK team about your candidacy, learn all of the details about laser eye surgery, and get answers to all of your key questions.
Find a Location
We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.
If you suffer from vision problems, you have probably longed for the ability to see without the aid of glasses or contacts. To wake up and get out of bed without reaching for your glasses, to see the alarm clock without squinting, to go for a run without glasses slipping down your nose—this would be a dream come true! You may have read about LASIK surgery and have even practiced the scenario in your mind about qualifying for LASIK. Afterall, it can reduce your dependence on glasses and contacts and finally bring the freedom that you have been envisioning! But if you’re considering any surgery, including LASIK eye surgery, you will naturally wonder if the procedure is safe for you.
Is LASIK Safe?
What is LASIK eye surgery?
LASIK is a two-step surgical procedure that can be used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The first step in the procedure is for the LASIK surgeon to make a small flap in the cornea (the outermost clear covering of an eye). This can be done using a blade or a laser, depending on the surgeon’s preferred surgical technique. For the second step, the surgeon will gently lift the flap to allow a different laser to reshape the cornea to the exact specifications of that patient’s eye prescription. Then, the corneal flap will be laid back into place, and the healing will begin.
Is LASIK surgery risky?
With any surgery, there exists the possibility of experiencing certain side effects or complications. Some of the possible complications of LASIK include inflammation or infection, issues with the corneal flap and dry eyes. However, LASIK has been approved by FDA since 1999 and has an impressive track record for effectiveness and safety – both of which contributes to LASIK’s sustained popularity.
In fact, LASIK is one of the most well studied elective surgeries performed today. Recent clinical data estimates a patient satisfaction rate of greater than 96%, which also demonstrates the safety standard of LASIK procedures. Research also estimates the rate of truly significant complications from LASIK eye surgery at less than 1 percent, making LASIK one of the safest elective procedures performed today.[i]
What are the potential side effects of LASIK surgery?
Possible side effects that LASIK patients may experience include:
Undercorrection/Overcorrection: This occurs when overall laser tissue removal is less than intended (undercorrection) or more than intended (overcorrection), because of one’s own unique biological characteristics. One of the clinician reasons are under- or over-response by the corneal tissues to the planned laser treatment. Regardless of the exact reasons involved, most patients will require only a minor laser touch up (LASIK enhancement) after having healed from the first laser treatment.
Haloes, glare, and issues with night vision: Some of the more common side effects that your LASIK specialist will advise you of include seeing haloes (rings of light), glare from light, or having difficulty seeing at night. When these do occur in patients, they typically resolve on their own in days to weeks.
Dry eyes: Although not all patients are symptomatic, we do expect patients to experience temporary dry eyes after LASIK. This also typically resolves itself within the first year, and it can be treated using eye drops in the meantime. Fortunately, 93% of patients report to not have dry eye symptoms or have returned to their baseline comfort at 12 months[ii]
Can you go blind from LASIK?
People often cite the fear of going completely blind as a concern when considering LASIK. While it is natural to be protective about your vision, there has never actually been a reported patient case where LASIK eye surgery was the primary cause of total blindness.[iii]
Will I need to have repeated LASIK procedures?
A common misconception is that LASIK “wears off” and a patient will need to keep having LASIK procedures every few years in order to maintain the original laser vision correction effects. However, this is not the case. Once LASIK corrects your vision by reshaping tissue underneath the corneal flap, this new tissue shape under corneal flap is permanently maintained under normal physiological situations.
However, like all living things, your own prescription requirements may change over time. For example, all patients will enter a life stage when they need computer or reading glasses (presbyopia), which mislead patients into thinking that LASIK effects have “worn off”. Additionally, patients’ own nearsightedness or farsightedness can naturally progress on its own after LAISK. Fortunately, your eyes may change, but your distance prescription needs don’t generally degrade back to where they were prior to LASIK. In these situations, a new consultation exam with your LASIK specialists can help you figure out if LASIK enhancement can help you.[iv]
[i] American Refractive Surgery Council. (2016). Is LASIK safe? What you need to know. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/lasik-safe-need-know/ [ii] Murakami Y, Manche EE. Prospective, randomized comparison of self-reported postoperative dry eye and visual fluctuation in LASIK and photorefractive keratectomy. Ophthalmology. 2012 Nov;119(11):2220-4. [iii] American Refractive Surgery Council. (2017). LASIK complication rate: The latest facts and stats you should know. Retrieved from https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/lasik-complication-rate-latest-facts/ [iv] American Refractive Surgery Council. (2016) Ask the doctor: How long does LASIK last? Retrieved from https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/how-long-does-lasik-last/
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