For a long time, eyeglasses or contact lenses were the only way to correct common refractive vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Now, procedures like LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) surgery provide a safe, effective alternative for those who don’t want to or can’t wear glasses or contacts.
LASIK surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) to improve how the eye focuses light onto the retina. It’s a quick, painless procedure that takes approximately two hours in an outpatient vision center. LASIK eye surgery has a high success rate. Millions of people worldwide have achieved 20/20 vision or better after undergoing a LASIK surgery procedure. If you’ve been considering laser vision correction, contact Berkeley Eye Center to schedule a free consultation with a leading Houston LASIK eye surgeon today.
The Benefits of LASIK Surgery
LASIK surgery provides many benefits for people who are looking to improve their vision. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved vision. The majority of patients experience improved vision immediately following their LASIK surgical procedure, including better night vision.
- Outpatient procedure. LASIK laser eye surgery is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. The surgery takes less than an hour to complete and is performed in a clinic.
- High success and satisfaction rate. LASIK is one of the safest and most effective types of elective surgery with a success and patient satisfaction rate of 90% or higher.
- Fast recovery. Most patients are able to resume their normal activities within a day to a week following the surgery.
- Long-lasting results: Our eyes continue to change even after LASIK surgery. However, LASIK patients experience long-lasting results, with most people retaining their desired level of vision for many years after their procedure.
- Fewer hassles. LASIK surgery eliminates the hassles associated with wearing glasses or contact lenses.
- Better enjoyment of life. LASIK improved vision allows patients to more fully enjoy their everyday activities like driving, sports, cooking, etc.
How to Choose a LASIK Surgeon
Selecting the right LASIK surgeon is vital to the success of your procedure. Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing a Houston LASIK eye surgeon:
- Experience. You’ll want to select an experienced LASIK eye surgeon with considerable experience and expertise in performing refractive eye surgery.
- Board Certification. Your LASIK surgeon needs to be board-certified and licensed to practice in Texas.
- Referrals. Referrals provide a great way to help you choose the right LASIK eye surgeon for you.
- Technology. A LASIK vision institute should offer the latest in LASIK technology and surgical techniques.
- Consultation. It’s important to choose a LASIK eye surgeon who is willing to take the time to explain the LASIK procedure during a free consultation. They should discuss the potential risks and benefits of LASIK surgery, answer your questions, and address any concerns you may have.
Why Select the Berkeley Eye Center for Your LASIK Surgery?
There are many reasons to choose the Berkeley Eye Center for your LASIK surgery:
- State-of-the-art technology, including iDesign LASIK
- Experienced, board-certified Houston LASIK eye surgeons
- Customized LASIK procedures to address the unique needs and preferences of each patient.
- Free LASIK consultations
- A wide range of payment and financing options are available, including FSAs and HSAs.
Check out what some of our patients have to say about the Berkeley Eye Center’s team of Houston LASIK surgeons.
Preparing for LASIK Surgery
The LASIK process begins with a consultation and examination to determine if you are a candidate for LASIK surgery. Make sure your LASIK eye surgeon is aware of any medical conditions that could impact the outcome of your laser eye surgery.
Your eye doctor will explain how to prepare for your surgery, what to expect during the procedure, and what post-operative care will entail.
During the procedure, the surgeon will create a thin flap in the cornea, using a microkeratome blade or femtosecond laser. The flap is lifted and a laser is used to remove a portion of the cornea’s tissue to reshape it. Once the cornea has been properly reshaped, the flap is closed and the cornea is allowed to heal naturally.
For the best results, it’s important to be adequately prepared for your laser eye surgery. Be sure to follow all your eye doctor’s instructions and ask questions if you’re unsure about what to do or expect. Common preparations for LASIK eye surgery include:
- Refraining from wearing contacts
- Avoiding certain medications
- Arranging transportation after the procedure
- Dressing comfortably
- Refrain from wearing eye makeup
- Don’t wear creams, perfumes, or lotions that could come into contact with your eyes
Most LASIK patients experience little or no discomfort after their procedure. Temporary symptoms may include scratchy, gritty, or watery eyes. Your doctor will provide you with eye drops to help alleviate these symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions about LASIK Surgery
How safe is LASIK surgery?
LASIK vision correction procedures have been performed for over 25 years. Most studies have shown that LASIK surgery is a safe and effective medical procedure, with a success rate of 90% or higher. However, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid any post-procedure problems.
Is LASIK surgery painful?
No. The actual surgery is painless and you will remain alert during the procedure. Anesthetic drops will be administered to completely numb the eye. During the procedure, you may experience a light pressure sensation around the eye. Afterward, you may experience gritty or scratchy eyes for a short time, but few patients experience pain after their procedure.
What happens if I blink during LASIK surgery?
This is one of the most common concerns our patients have. You don’t have to worry about blinking: your eye is held open by a special device that prevents you from blinking during surgery.
Who isn’t a candidate for LASIK surgery?
Most patients are candidates for LASIK eye surgery. However, certain medical conditions, including dry eye syndrome, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases can disqualify you from being a candidate for LASIK surgery.
How much does LASIK surgery cost?
Prices for LASIK surgery vary, depending on a patient’s specific condition. Once a pre-LASIK exam has been completed, your ophthalmologist will be able to quote you a price.
Will my insurance cover LASIK eye surgery?
LASIK vision correction is usually considered to be an elective procedure, so many insurance policies don’t cover the costs of the surgery. However, most FSA and HSA funds can be used to help cover the costs of the procedure. The Berkeley Eye Center offers many financing and payment options to help patients pay for their procedures.
Schedule a Free LASIK Consultation With a Houston LASIK Surgeon
Are you considering LASIK eye surgery as an alternative to wearing glasses or contacts? Contact Berkeley Eye Center via our website or call us at (713) 526-3937 to schedule a free LASIK consultation today. Berkeley Eye Center was one of the first eye clinics to offer LASIK eye surgery in Houston. Our trusted LASIK surgeons are considered to be experts in the field of vision correction surgery.
Berkeley Eye Center has been protecting the vision health of Texans for more than 60 years. With 25 locations all around Houston, there’s sure to be a Berkeley Eye Center near you.