Custom LASIK Surgery - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

LASIK eye surgery is a procedure in which the eye is transformed to be able to see perfectly, even if the person who is having the procedure done has found it necessary to wear corrective lenses for most of their life. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about laser eye surgery.

Am I a good candidate for this eye surgery?

So many people are curious if they are a good patient for LASIK eye surgery that many optometrists have had to lend a hand to eye surgeons specializing in the procedure, weeding out the people who are good candidates and those who are not. The surgery can help a wide array of people, including farsighted, nearsighted, and even astigmatic patients. Patients need to be over eighteen years of age and have to be free of any eye disease, retinal problems, or corneal scars. If you fit into this group of people, a LASIK professional should take a look at your eyes to tell you if you will be able to have the procedure done.

Does it take long?

Believe it or not, the actual procedure is the fastest part of the process. It takes a little while to have your eyes tested and to get the paperwork done. The procedure itself, however, only takes anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.

Is it permanent?

Once your eyes have healed fully, which can take up to three months, the effects of the surgery are permanent.

I heard that I can’t rub my eyes after the procedure--is that true?

There are a few restrictions that your LASIK surgeon will have for you. The first is that you should not shower for at least two days after treatment. The next is that you should avoid wearing eye makeup for at least two weeks after the procedure is done. But yes, it is true that, for a time, you should not rub your eyes after the procedure. Most eye surgeons will recommend not rubbing your eyes for at least a month after the surgery in order to ensure that the procedure works correctly.

Is there anesthesia for the procedure?

The only anesthesia generally used is numbing drops. If a patient is extremely nervous about the procedure, the eye surgeon may use oral medications in order to help the patient to relax.