Laser Vision Correction
LASIK is a safe and effective surgical procedure to reduce or eliminate nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism by reshaping the front surface of the eye (the cornea) with a laser.
The goal of LASIK is to decrease or eliminate your dependence on eyeglasses and contact lenses for everyday visual tasks.
LASIK does not always create 20/20 vision. Results cannot be guaranteed. In some cases, an enhancement procedure may be required to achieve desired visual acuity. (Enhancements are usually performed 5-6 months after the initial LASIK surgery.)
After LASIK, you may still need to wear eyeglasses for specific visual tasks, such as driving at night or reading small print.
LASIK does not treat a visual condition called presbyopia, which affects us all. Presbyopia is the normal age-related loss of near focusing ability that occurs after age 40. After LASIK, you will still need eyeglasses for near work when you become presbyopic.
If you are nearsighted and wear bifocals for presbyopia (or will soon need them), you may want to have one eye corrected for distance with LASIK and have the other eye remain slightly nearsighted. This will reduce your dependency on reading glasses after LASIK. Dr. Carlson will discuss this option with you during your pre-operative exam.
After LASIK, it is normal to experience the following as the cornea heals: dry eyes, fluctuating visual acuity, and glare (especially at night). These symptoms are most noticeable immediately following surgery, but can last for several weeks or months.
LASIK, like any surgical procedure, involves some risk. Risks and potential complications are listed in the Informed Consent document you will receive prior to surgery. Read the Informed Consent document carefully before proceeding with LASIK.