Frequently Asked Questions

What is LASIK?

• LASIK is a laser eye surgery for refractive errors like near and farsightedness and astigmatism.  LASIK was approved in the US in 1994 and since has been helping millions of people improve their vision.  Their are different types of LASIK, which our doctors will go over with you to ensure you receive the best possible experience.

Who is a candidate for LASIK?

• LASIK can be used to correct up to -12.00 diopters of nearsightedness (myopia) with up to 6 diopters of astigmatism.  For farsightedness (hyperopia), LASIK can be used to correct up to +6.00 diopters with up to +6.00 diopters without astigmatism.  We can provide most patients over the age of 18 with vision imperfections with a laser option that will reduce or eliminate their need for glasses or contact lenses.  If your vision is outside of these ranges, there still may be some other options for you.

Does LASIK hurt?

• Most LASIK procedures run about 5-15 minutes in length, where the laser is turned on for less then 90 seconds.  The good news is the actual surgeries are painless.  Most discomfort can be found in the recuperation period.  During this time your eyes may feel scratchy discomfort and be sensitive to light. Our doctors recommend patients take a nap during this time to keep they eyes gently closed for he first few hours after the procedure.
  

Which procedure is best for me LASIK or PRK?

• All patients have options at all ranges with us.  These options will be discussed in detail with you in your consultation with our doctors.  We will make everything clear and simple to understand to ensure the best results for you.

What are you LASIK results?

• Our LASIK San Diego doctors experience very favorable results.  Most of our patients achieve 20/20 vision or better!
  

What about reading glasses? (*please read this carefully if you are over 35 years old)

• If you are over the age of 35, you need to seriously consider the options of laser eye surgery.  Most people over 35 years old will develop or have developed an eye condition called presbyopia.  As people age, the eye's lens loses its ability to quickly focus from viewing things at a distance to viewing objects close up.  This condition is called presbyopia.  This is precisely the reason people over 40 years old generally need reading glasses.  Fortunately, if you never really needed glasses to see from far distances, you may only need reading glasses when you develop presbyopia.  There are some laser options to reduce the need for reading glasses.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact our San Diego LASIK offices.  We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have.