Ophthalmology

Frequently Asked Questions: Vision Correction Surgery

You only have one set of eyes. That’s why it’s important to make sure you trust your surgeon’s expertise and make sure to consider the risk and benefits prior to getting vision correction surgery. Your vision correction consultation enables you to discuss those considerations with your specialist. This FAQ can help prepare you to have an informed conversation.

Do I qualify?

There are now more laser correction vision procedure techniques and technologies than ever before. Typically, patients ages 21 and over who have had a stable prescription for a year with the following common conditions may qualify.

Common Conditions

• Nearsightedness (myopia)
• Farsightedness (hyperopia)
• Astigmatism (blurred vision)

Other considerations include whether you’re pregnant, nursing, have had a history of herpes eye infection, have advanced glaucoma or cataracts, and how high your prescription is. A consultation with a specialist can determine if laser vision correction surgery is a good option for you.

What are the risks?

During your consultation, your specialist will walk you through the likelihood and risks and benefits of vision correction surgery.

Your goal for vision correction surgery should be reducing the reliance on glasses and contact lenses, not perfect vision.

What happens during the consultation?

It’s important to have a thorough pre-surgical evaluation to have the correct eye measurements in place and a full understanding of your eye health prior to your procedure. This pre-surgical evaluation includes a roughly 2-hour long consultation where you will have a dilated eye exam. The appointment will also include:

• Visual acuity measurement:
• Corneal topography
• Slit-lamp examination
• Corneal thickness
• Pupil size
• Intraocular pressure
• Schirmer test
• Fundus examination
• Ocular motility

Your specialist will discuss the results of the test with you to determine if you are a good candidate for vision correction surgery and the type of surgery that would be best for you.

Can I have surgery on both eyes at once?

Yes. Many patients choose to have both eyes treated at the same time to minimize recovery time and adjusting after surgery.

How long prior to the surgery do I need to stop using my contact lenses?

You should stop wearing your soft contact lenses for at least 7 days prior to your procedure and 2-3 weeks prior for hard contact lenses.

What does the recovery look like?

Your vision may be blurry in the first few hours following your surgery, depending on the procedure. You may also feel the effects from the mild sedative you were given prior to the surgery. Many times, patients choose to get the procedure during a time when they can easily take time off work and don’t have many family or social commitments.  Depending on the type of procedure, you will also want to avoid contact sports and swimming for several weeks.

Can I use eye makeup after my procedure?

Avoid using eye makeup for one week following your surgery.

How much does vision correction surgery cost?

The total cost for your vision correction surgery can vary, so be sure to speak with your specialist and our administrative staff.

Is vision correction surgery covered by insurance?

Vision correction surgery is considered a self-pay procedure and is not covered by health insurance plans. Most procedures are HSA/FSA-eligible.