Close
A Handy Quick Guide to LASIK

A Handy Quick Guide to LASIK

Share

LASIK has become a popular way to correct your vision, whether you have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. But even if you’re debating on whether to get LASIK, you may have some questions, concerns, and anxiety about the process. With this handy quick guide to LASIK, you can get all the information you need to let the stress melt away.

What Is LASIK?

Also known as laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, LASIK is a type of refractive surgery. During the procedure, the ophthalmologist or surgeon uses a laser to cut a flap in the cornea and then reshapes it. There are also three types of LASIK:

  • Traditional LASIK, which uses the laser to reshape the eye.
  • Wavefront LASIK, which customizes the procedure for your specific corneal shape.
  • All-Laser LASIK, which is a recent invention and is 100% blade-free.

Does LASIK Have Any Risks?

In over 99% of cases, LASIK patients have no long-lasting effects as a result of the surgery. However, they may experience some short-term effects such as halos, dry eyes, and glare, but these usually subside within a few days or weeks.

 

Like any other type of surgery, LASIK comes with risks, albeit in less than 1% of patients. Some of these risks include:

  • Infection
  • Corneal abrasion
  • Corneal ectasia
  • Epithelial ingrowth
  • Undercorrection or overcorrection
  • Regression back to old vision

Again, because these complications happen in less than 1% of cases, LASIK is extremely safe and any long-lasting issues shouldn’t be a cause for concern.

Dr. Alexandra Chebil has completed over 70,000 procedures in her private Newport Beach Lasik practice.  Choosing the right doctor is very important when looking for an ophthalmologist for Lasik.  In her practice, she is involved from the first visit to long after the procedure is done, this level of personalized care is crucial when dealing with vision correction.

How Much Does LASIK Cost?

The cost for LASIK varies, and your insurance may also cover the cost, so estimating the out-of-pocket expense isn’t always accurate. But as a general rule, you can follow these guidelines for LASIK in both eyes:

  • $3,000 for traditional LASIK
  • $4,000 for wavefront LASIK
  • $4,600 for bladeless, all-laser LASIK

Remember that these are just guidelines. Prices can fluctuate based on emerging new technology, where you live, offices offering discounts, and your insurance deductible.

What’s the Recovery Process for LASIK?

As mentioned above, LASIK may cause a few temporary issues with your sight, including:

  • Dry eye
  • Poor night vision
  • Halos or glare
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurry vision

But don’t fear. These after effects will go away over time.

As far as the recovery process for LASIK, it’s relatively straightforward. Just follow these steps:

  • Get someone to drive you home from the procedure; you should be able to drive again within 48 hours.
  • You can return to work within 48 hours.
  • You shouldn’t wear eye makeup for at least a week.
  • Wait a few days before you start to play sports, exercise, or hit the gym. If you play contact sports, you may also want to wear some protective glasses or goggles.
  • Wait about a day to shower again.

Get the Vision You Deserve

Any type of surgery is bound to make you a bit uneasy. But with this guide, you can hopefully get the information you need to make an informed decision. So join the millions of people who have had LASIK over the years. It might be the clearest decision you make.  Book a complimentary consultation with Dr. Alexandra Chebil in Orange County and find out if Lasik is right for you.