Frequently Asked Questions

What will my vision be after the LASIK procedure?
This varies among patients. Studies in which we have participated show that, in general, 95 percent of patients achieve 20/40 or better vision (needed to pass the driver's test) and about two thirds achieve 20/20 or better. Results may be better or worse depending on a patient's degree of refractive error.

Will I need glasses or contact lenses after the procedure?
The LASIK procedure is designed to decrease your dependency on glasses and contact lenses, not necessarily eliminate them for all tasks. For instance, some patients may need glasses for reading, night driving, or other specific tasks. However, most patients note that they can do many things without glasses or contacts after the procedure.

What are the possible side effects?
Possible side effects and complications will be discussed in detail with you by your doctor. As in any kind of eye surgery, there is no guarantee of success. In general, there are four possible side effects important to consider (although, of course, others are possible). These include:

• Undercorrections and overcorrections.
  While we aim for the best possible vision, some patients may be undercorrected and others overcorrected. In general, if undercorrected, your vision is improved, but not to 20/20. If overcorrected, the same is true and reading glasses may be necessary. In some cases, glasses or contact lenses may still be necessary. In others, retreatments may further improve vision.
• The need for reading glasses.
  Some patients, especially those older than 40 years, may need reading glasses after the procedure.
• Glare/halo/double vision.
  In some instances, especially at night, a patient may notice glare from lights or 'ghost' images.
• Dry eyes.
  In some instances, a patient may feel some dryness after the procedure which is treated with moisturizing eye drops.

Can both eyes be treated at the same time?
Yes, depending on your specific case.

Is the procedure painful?
The procedure is done using topical anesthetic drops and is not painful. There may be some discomfort after the procedure when the anesthesia wears off. Medications are given to minimize this discomfort.

How much time must I take off from work following the procedure?
This depends on your job. In general, LASIK patients can return to work the day after the procedure or they take one day off. For those jobs in which good visual acuity in both eyes is critical, it may take several days for vision to return to a level at which you can perform your job properly.

How often do I return for follow-up examinations after the procedure?
In general, there are short checkups one day and two weeks after the procedure. We then examine you at two months, six months, and one year, as necessary. The examination schedule is tailored to your specific situation.

How long does the procedure take?
Expect to be at Palisades Laser Eye Center for about one to two hours the day of the procedure. The treatment takes about forty-five minutes.

After the procedure, how soon will I notice an improvement in my vision?
After LASIK, visual improvement is usually noted the day after the procedure and continues for a few weeks.

Will insurance cover the procedure?
Since the procedure is considered elective, most insurance plans do not cover it. However, we do offer convenient payment plans.

What if I have no transportation?
We can arrange for transportation the day of your procedure if no one is available to drive and take you to the center.

Palisades Laser Eye Center