LASIK eye surgery: Is it right for me?

LASIK eye surgery is a popular procedure that can correct vision problems, allowing many people to see clearly without glasses or contact lenses. But how do you know if LASIK eye surgery is right for you? Read on to explore what LASIK is, who qualifies for it and if it’s a good option for improving your vision. 

What is LASIK eye surgery?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of refractive eye surgery. It uses a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of your eye, to improve how light is focused on the retina. This can correct common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.

The LASIK procedure

During the LASIK procedure, an eye surgeon creates a thin flap in the cornea using a microkeratome (a tiny blade) or a femtosecond laser. The surgeon then lifts the flap and uses another laser to reshape the cornea. The flap is then laid back in place, where it heals naturally without needing stitches.

The procedure itself is quick, typically taking about 10-15 minutes per eye. You'll be awake during the surgery, but your eyes are numbed with anesthetic drops to ensure you don't feel any pain.

LASIK recovery time is generally fast, with many people experiencing improved vision within a day or two. Most people achieve 20/20 vision or better after LASIK, but some may still need glasses or contact lenses for certain activities. Your vision may continue to improve over several weeks as your eyes heal.

Who is a good candidate for LASIK?

Not everyone is a good candidate for laser eye surgery. Here are some general patient requirements for considering the LASIK procedure:

• Age and vision stability
  • Age: You should be at least 18 years old.
  • Stable vision: Your prescription should not have changed significantly in the last year.
• Eye health
  • Healthy eyes: You should have healthy eyes, free from conditions like glaucoma, cataracts or severe dry eye syndrome.
• General health
  • Overall health: Good general health is an important consideration for surgery eligibility. Certain conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, can affect a person’s healing ability.
  • Pregnancy: If applicable, you should wait to schedule LASIK surgery until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

“Our laser-refractive eye surgeries are great for people who have overall healthy eyes and seek to gain freedom from wearing glasses and contact lenses.”—Robert Funk, MD, Gundersen Ophthalmology

LASIK surgery eligibility

To determine if you're eligible for LASIK, you'll need a comprehensive eye exam and consultation with a Gundersen eye surgeon. This evaluation will include:

Detailed eye exam

Your eye surgeon will examine your eyes to check for any underlying conditions and measure your corneal thickness, pupil size and other factors that could affect your eligibility for eye surgery.

Medical history review

Your medical history will be reviewed to identify any health issues that could impact your ability to safely undergo LASIK surgery.

Personalized recommendations

Based on your eye exam and medical history, your surgeon will provide personalized recommendations and discuss the potential benefits and risks of laser eye surgery.

If you are interested in being evaluated for LASIK, get started by visiting our website, requesting a free LASIK evaluation at Gundersen or calling 608-775-2745 to schedule a consultation appointment.

Is LASIK eye surgery right for me?

After factoring in the qualifications and eligibility requirements for laser eye surgery, deciding whether LASIK is right for you ultimately involves your lifestyle, comfort level and personal preferences.

Lifestyle considerations

Think about how much you rely on glasses or contacts and how LASIK could improve your daily life. If you have an active lifestyle or a job that makes wearing glasses or contacts difficult, LASIK could be a great option for you.

Personal preferences

Some people prefer the flexibility of glasses or contact lenses and may not want to undergo surgery. Consider your comfort level with the procedure and any concerns you may have.

Financial considerations

LASIK surgery is a financial investment in correcting your vision. Be sure you thoroughly understand and factor in the total LASIK eye surgery cost, including verifying any potential insurance coverage, before considering surgery.

Gundersen’s all-inclusive LASIK surgery fee will include: 

• Evaluation and tests
• LASIK eye surgery
• Prescription eye drops
• All follow-up visits related to your procedure for up to one year
• Any enhancements needed, up to one year, after your procedure

How much does LASIK cost? Visit our website for more information or call us at 608-775-2745 for current pricing information. Gundersen offers interest-free financing options!

Is LASIK safe?

Safety is a common concern for anyone considering laser eye surgery. While no surgery is without risk, LASIK is generally considered safe and effective when performed by a qualified Gundersen surgeon.

Potential risks and complications

Like any surgical procedure, LASIK has potential risks and complications. Some possible side effects and LASIK eye surgery risks include:

• Dry eyes
• Glare, halos or double vision
• Under-corrections or over-corrections
• Flap complications
• Infection

Most side effects are temporary and can be managed with medication or additional treatment. Serious complications are rare, but it's important to discuss all potential risks and any concerns with your eye surgeon.

LASIK eye surgery can be a life-changing procedure for many people, offering the possibility of clear vision without the inconvenience of glasses or contact lenses. However, it's important to carefully consider whether it's the right choice for you. By understanding the procedure, your eligibility and your lifestyle preferences, you can make an informed decision if LASIK is right for you.

If you're considering LASIK, schedule a consultation with a Gundersen eye surgeon to discuss your options and determine if you're a good candidate for this vision-correcting procedure—no referral needed. Get started today by visiting our website, requesting a free LASIK evaluation at Gundersen or calling 608-775-2745 to schedule a consultation appointment.