LASIK Surgery, Common Questions Answered

Common Questions Before LASIK Surgery

How do I know if I’m a candidate?

There are many, many factors that can influence your eligibility for LASIK surgery. The only way to know for certain if your eyes are right for LASIK is to undergo an evaluation from a professional laser eye surgeon. If you’re interested in learning more about the factors that determine candidacy, read our blog post on the topic.

Is LASIK surgery painful?

The LASIK procedure does not cause serious pain for any patient, even though it is performed using a laser. In fact, most patients experience no pain during or after surgery. You may feel slight pressure or discomfort during the surgery, but nothing to any significant extent. In addition, minor stinging may occur for a few hours after the surgery.

How long does the procedure take?

The actual procedure takes only a few minutes per eye, with about a minute or less of laser treatment time depending on how much correction is needed. The technology is so advanced and so precise that no more time than this is needed. In total, you’ll spend less than two hours in our offices. Most patients are able to return their normal work activities the day after the surgery, so minimal time off is needed.

Learn more about LASIK and if it’s the right fit for you.

Can both of my eyes be treated during the same surgery?

Both eyes can be treated at the same time. There are some cases where a patient may consider waiting for a period of time after the first eye surgery to do the second. Speak with your surgeon about what’s important to you and what options you have.

Will I be able to see better right after surgery?

Most patients are able to see extremely well the morning after surgery. Remember, everybody is different and will have different results and healing periods. The length of time it takes you to achieve optimal vision may be longer than one day. Your surgeon will evaluate your eyesight in the day-after postoperative exam.

Will I be able to drive immediately after surgery?

LASIK eye surgery is a very advanced technique with very advanced technology and fast, exceptional results. Even so, the human body is still just the human body. Though you may believe yourself to be able to drive, it is unsafe to do so until the following day. Your body needs a chance to adjust to its new vision and let the sedatives or anesthetics wear off.

Dougherty Laser Vision can help you determine the best option to reduce dependency on reading glasses based on your individual visual needs. Contact us today to set up your consultation with Dr. Paul Dougherty, The Doctor’s Doctor at 805-312-7671. If you’re unsure if you’re eligible for laser eye surgery, take our LASIK self test to find out more.