Your LASIK Questions Answered

Many people struggle with vision issues. Glasses can help, but they are not always the ideal option. Plus, you need to frequently upgrade and replace them. LASIK can be a great way to get away from prescription glasses. If you would like to know more, check out these four commonly asked questions.

1. How Does LASIK Surgery Work?

Ideally, your eye works by refracting light with the cornea so that it hits the retina perfectly. However, if you are nearsighted or farsighted (or have astigmatism), the light does not bend correctly, which makes your vision blurred when you try to see far or near. Glasses correct this, but so can LASIK.

During the procedure, a flap is made in the eye so the doctor can safely and easily access the cornea for reshaping. The reshaping is performed with a laser, and after the tissue has been removed, the flap is repositioned and heals. Your vision may appear blurry at first because of the surgery, but your vision will improve.

2. What's the Recovery Time?

Immediately after treatment, you should rest your eyes for about 24 hours. This means avoiding reading and using screen devices. You may feel some discomfort and irritation, and you may need to use special eye drops.

For the next two to four weeks after surgery, you need to wear sunglasses during the day, protect your eyes at night with an eye shield, avoid touching your eyes, and avoid getting anything near or in your eyes. Full recovery takes about six months, and it may also take about six months before your vision is fully stabilized.

3. Will the Results Last Forever?

LASIK is a permanent solution, but that doesn't mean you'll never struggle with vision problems again. As people age, the cornea can get harder or change, leading to vision issues. LASIK won't stop the natural aging process. Therefore, even after LASIK, you may need treatment again or glasses a long time down the road.

4. How Much Does Treatment Cost?

On average, LASIK costs about $1,950 per eye. The price can increase if you use custom LASIK, which involves taking a 3-D map of your eye for better results. You may also pay more if you choose IntraLase, which uses a laser to cut the eye flap too.

Depending on your insurance, some of the cost may be covered, but many insurance providers consider LASIK a cosmetic procedure. You can also ask your provider about payment plans or alternative payment methods like CareCredit.

LASIK is a great alternative to glasses, and you may even save money in the long run by not needing to constantly buy glasses and lenses. LASIK is a common procedure that helps many people regain their vision.

If you would like to know more, contact a company like Filutowski Eye Institute.