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Frequently Asked Questions
LASIK Eye Surgery in Sacramento - FAQsThe following questions are among those we are most frequently asked by patients who are interested in LASIK or other refractive procedures. For answers to your specific questions about the procedures we offer, including LASIK, Sacramento area residents are encouraged to contact the Laser Eye Center for a complimentary LASIK surgery consultation. We will be happy to discuss any of our procedures and services in great detail and to help you decide which procedure is right for you. What is laser vision correction of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism?Laser correction is a precise method of reshaping the cornea to correct visual problems. A highly accurate Excimer laser is used to vaporize layers of tissue from the surface of the cornea, essentially transforming it into a personalized contact lens designed specifically for your eye. The goal of the procedure is to eliminate or reduce your reliance on glasses or contacts. Who is a candidate for LASIK surgery?LASIK and ASA/PRK is approved for patients 18 years or older who are nearsighted or farsighted, with or without astigmatism. Your vision must be stable for at least one year before the procedure can be performed. Both the health of your eyes and your overall health must be taken into consideration, as well. Pregnant women, for example, should not have LASIK or ASA/PRK done. The best LASIK candidates tend to be people who are dissatisfied with their contact lenses or glasses. They are usually motivated to seek treatment by their lifestyle, recreational, or occupational needs. However, only a doctor who is highly trained in laser vision correction is qualified to evaluate your individual case. When you have your LASIK or ASA/PRK consultation at our Roseville facility, Dr. Meister and Dr. Cooper will be able to determine whether you are a good candidate for Wavefront™ LASIK, or for another refractive procedure such as LASEK or ASA/PRK. How long does LASIK eye surgery take to perform? How long will my recovery be?The actual LASIK procedure at our Roseville office requires about 4 to 5 minutes per eye, depending on the degree of correction needed. Usually, both eyes are treated in a single visit. You will typically notice an improvement in your vision immediately after the procedure. Most people can drive the day after their procedure and return to work in between two and four days. Many patients therefore prefer to be treated on a Wednesday or Thursday to minimize their time away from work. How safe is the LASIK surgery?There are risks involved with any surgical procedure. However, because LASIK uses a cool beam of light that is computer controlled, there is little chance of error. In the U.S. alone, the procedure has been performed well over two million times. According to recent data, 98% of patients treated with LASIK or ASA for nearsightedness and/or astigmatism see well enough to pass a driver’s test without glasses. What are the side effects of LASIK eye surgery, if any?The most common initial reaction after LASIK is a “halo” or glare effect. You may experience a slight glare around lights, especially at night. However, these side effects are generally no more serious than those resulting from contact lenses, and are frequently much less serious. Normally, these effects subside in a few weeks for most LASIK patients. Will I be in any pain during LASIK surgery?The treatment, itself, has been reported by most patients as being painless. You may experience discomfort and a “gritty” feeling in the first 24 to 48 hours after your LASIK or ASA procedure. Our patients can be given medication to curb this discomfort. Will the LASIK eye surgery results be permanent?Given the results of both U.S. and international clinical trials since the procedure’s inception, LASIK appears to be permanent for most patients. |
