Can Bifocal LASIK really help you get rid of your bifocals for good? Many people must wear bifocals to help correct the inevitable deteriorating vision brought on by aging. Bifocals help correct a condition known as presbyopia (“old eye” in Greek), which causes blurred close-range vision, especially in low-light environments. With the onset of presbyopia, even those who have never before needed glasses may find themselves in need of bifocals — a frustrating occurrence for many patients.

While presbyopia can be improved with nothing more complex than reading glasses or bifocals, many people with the condition wish to return to a life with normal vision… and without corrective lenses. When it comes to a few minutes of undergoing LASIK vs. contacts for the rest of your life, many prefer undergoing surgery for a stress-free future.

Bifocal LASIK, better known as Monovision LASIK, is a popular surgical procedure for correcting age-related vision loss. For years, the prospects for surgical treatment of presbyopia weren’t exactly ideal. Luckily, things have changed. “Can you get LASIK if you wear bifocals?” is a valid question, and one increasingly becoming less and less of a concern as the surgery becomes more accessible to more patients.

​​What causes presbyopia?

The lens of the eye gets less flexible with age, making it harder for your eyes to adjust to lower levels of light and changes in distance, especially when said changes are made within close range. Since presbyopia occurs naturally as we get older, making an investment in prevention measures is difficult. In fact, presbyopia is so closely associated with aging, it has earned the discouraging nickname “Over 40 Vision.”

That’s the bad news.

The good news is that we have more information about LASIK eye surgery to correct presbyopia than ever before. We often get asked, “Can LASIK fix presbyopia?” Yes! Bifocal LASIK in particular is one of the many presbyopia treatment options available to patients.

What is Monovision LASIK?

Unfortunately, conventional LASIK eye surgery may not be used to treat presbyopia. However, there are other forms of bifocal-eliminating surgery available, such as Monovision LASIK.

Monovision LASIK is a unique take on your typical laser eye surgery. During the procedure, one eye (typically your dominant eye) is corrected. The other is made to be partially nearsighted. Such a change actually replicates the effects of bifocals, so the procedure is sometimes referred to as “blended vision LASIK” or “Bifocal LASIK.”

While Monovision LASIK is an effective surgical alternative to wearing bifocals, it does have its drawbacks. Although your eyes will now work together to see objects both near and far, you may still lose a small amount of clarity in your vision.

Monovision LASIK patient qualifications

Who is a candidate for LASIK? As technology grows more and more sophisticated every day, we’re seeing more and more people who were once unable to undergo the procedure now able to access vision-restoring care.

In order to qualify for LASIK, a patient must:

• Be 18+ years of age
• Not be nursing or pregnant
• Have good eye health
• Have good overall physical health
• Have the right thickness for creating a corneal flap (meaning those with thin corneas are not eligible)

If you don’t qualify for Monovision LASIK, don’t fret! There are still plenty of alternatives to LASIK available to you for stronger sight and peace of mind.

What are the side effects of Monovision LASIK?

As with other LASIK procedures, Monovision LASIK is a quick outpatient procedure taking around 15 to 20 minutes and requiring only localized anesthetic. Despite this simplicity, there are still side effects to know about before deciding to move forward with LASIK, including the following:

• Light sensitivity
• Decreased night vision
• Infection
• Dry eyes

Your surgeon will be able to give you a personalized overview of your healing process, including your risk of certain side effects, the aftercare process, and the length of your recovery period. All patients have to refrain from driving, strenuous exercise, swimming, and other activities following surgery, though the time frame will vary based on their physical circumstances.

Is Bifocal LASIK the solution for you? Find out with Eye Center of Texas!

Eye Center of Texas surgeons Dr. Edward C. Wade and Dr. Mark L. Mayo provide Bifocal LASIK and other vision correction procedures to help patients see the world in a whole new way…quite literally! We pride ourselves on offering safe, affordable care to all of our patients. To learn more about which procedures may be right for you, contact us today and schedule an appointment at any of our Houston-area locations.

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Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, better known as LASIK, is a surgical procedure meant to correct a patient’s vision so they never have to struggle with glasses or contact lenses again. Although it is a safe and effective vision correction procedure, not every patient is a good fit for LASIK.

Luckily, Eye Center of Texas offers more LASIK surgery options available to help improve eyesight in a wider number of people than ever before, making better vision accessible to even those previously unable to undergo the process.

What is LASIK surgery?

LASIK surgery uses a thin, precise laser to reshape the cornea and improve a patient’s overall vision. It’s a quick, painless outpatient procedure that takes around 15 minutes to complete. LASIK does not require full anesthesia. Rather, all it requires is a little localized anesthetic usually administered via eye drops.

Some of the conditions LASIK can treat include astigmatism, nearsightedness (myopia), and farsightedness (hyperopia).

There are a few different alternatives to LASIK, such as PRK and EVO Visian ICL, so patients seeking vision correction surgery still have options even if they don’t qualify for LASIK itself.

What are the different types of LASIK surgery?

There are three major LASIK surgery options, each one taking a different approach to restoring eyesight.

LASEK

Laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) is very similar to traditional LASIK, however, it is better suited for people with thin corneas who may have had unpleasant side effects with LASIK. Rather than cutting open the flap in the cornea, the surgeon will use an alcohol solution to lift the tissue away from the eye, fold it back, and then reshape the cornea’s inner layers to correct any vision impairments. Although the healing process is a tad slower, patients will likely not experience dry eye as they would with LASIK.

PRK

What is PRK surgery? Photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, is similar to LASIK in that it involves reshaping the cornea but follows a different path. The surgeon removes the top layer of the cornea and uses a pulsing ultraviolet laser on the surface of the cornea to reshape it rather than underneath the corneal flap. The top layer cornea eventually grows back over the reshaped internal layers. PRK is better suited for those who have thin corneas or dry eyes as it reduces the risk of corneal flap-related complications.

EVO Visian ICL

EVO Visian ICL is a relatively new procedure often used in patients for whom LASIK or PRK are not the most ideal options. Unlike these similar surgeries, it involves the implantation of an EVO lens rather than a corneal reshaping and the lens can be removed at any time by your doctor. The process for EVO Visian ICL proceeds as follows:

1. The surgeon cuts a hole in the cornea.
2. The new biocompatible, flexible Collamer® lens is inserted into the hole.
3. The lens is positioned properly over the cornea’s internal layers.

While LASIK and PRK procedures take around 15 minutes or so, EVO Visian ICL usually wraps in about 20 to 30 minutes.

What makes an ideal LASIK candidate?

LASIK, PRK, and EVO Visian ICL are all extremely common procedures, but they can’t be performed on everyone requiring vision correction. The first stage of any consultation for these procedures is always an eye exam. From there, your doctor will make a 3D map of your eye to get a comprehensive understanding of its geography. These tests determine whether or not you would be a good candidate for LASIK.

The ideal LASIK candidate has the following qualities:

• Is 18+ years of age
• Is in good overall health
• Does not suffer from an eye disease such as glaucoma or cataracts
• Has had no significant changes to eyesight or condition for a year or more
• Has an eye shape conducive to undergoing the procedure in question

By contrast, LASIK may not be performed on the following patients:

• People under the age of 18
• People who are pregnant
• People with autoimmune diseases
• People with eye infections
• People with thin corneas
• People with thick or otherwise unusually large pupils

LASIK surgery risks

Although safe, quick, and painless, LASIK and related procedures are not without their risks. Before deciding to undergo the surgery and say goodbye to glasses or contact lenses, it’s important to know the following possible side effects:

• Dry eyes (not an issue with LASEK, PRK, or EVO Visian ICL)
• Light sensitivity
• Infection
• Decreased night vision

One of the most important questions to ask during LASIK consultation involves these risks. Don’t commit to the surgery without being fully informed about both the positives and the negatives associated with it.

How long does it take to recover from LASIK?

As outpatient procedures, LASIK, PRK, and EVO Visian ICL don’t require overnight hospitalization for monitoring and recovery. Every patient’s recovery time will be different owing to factors such as their age and overall health, so your doctor should give you a personalized timeline of what a normal healing time frame and process will look like for you specifically.

Most patients will start seeing the full results of their surgeries within a few days. However, the recovery time typically goes faster with EVO Visian ICL, and many patients report experiencing immediate results. You may be asked to refrain from certain activities such as swimming, wearing eye makeup, and exercising for a few weeks while your eyes recover regardless of which procedure you undergo.

Eye Center of Texas offers multiple LASIK surgery options in Greater Houston

Regardless of which procedure your doctor recommends, Eye Center of Texas offers multiple types of eye surgery to correct vision. We have the answers to common questions such as, “Can you use HSA for LASIK?” and anything else that may be on your mind regarding the commitment. For more information about LASIK surgery options and to schedule an appointment, feel free to contact us.

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Having poor vision can be a major obstacle in everyday life, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks like driving and reading. For many people, corrective eye surgery such as LASIK is the best solution for restoring their vision. But with the cost of LASIK ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 per eye, it can be a prohibitively expensive procedure.

Fortunately, there are ways to make this treatment more affordable by using pre-tax money from your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) for LASIK.

How much does LASIK cost?

LASIK eye surgery costs in Houston can vary significantly depending on the type of procedure you choose and the experience of your eye surgeon. Generally, traditional LASIK (using a blade to cut a flap in the cornea) costs between $1,000 and $2,500 per eye. Custom LASIK (using lasers to reshape the cornea) and alternative vision correction procedures such as EVO ICL vision correction may cost up to $4,000 per eye.

When compared to PRK surgery cost, LASIK is generally more expensive. However, the cost may be offset by the shorter recovery time associated with LASIK (most patients can see clearly within 24 hours), and the overall lack of hassle.

What is the difference between an HSA and FSA?

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) are both pre-tax accounts that you can use to pay for eligible medical expenses, including LASIK. HSAs are available only to those who have a high deductible health plan, whereas FSAs are available to anyone whose employer offers an FSA.

HSAs are more flexible than FSAs, as they allow you to contribute more money and can be used to pay for medical expenses in the future. Additionally, funds that remain in an HSA at the end of the year roll over and accumulate, which can help cover larger expenses like LASIK surgery down the line. However, HSAs are not available to everyone.

FSAs, on the other hand, allow you to set aside a certain amount of pre-tax money from each paycheck for medical expenses. The funds do not carry over at the end of the year, so it’s important to use all your FSA dollars before they expire.

Using your FSA or HSA for LASIK surgery

Before using your FSA or HSA for LASIK, it is important to check your specific plan. Some plans may not cover the procedure, and others may have certain restrictions or limits on what type of procedure they cover.

Here’s what you need to know about using your FSA or HSA for LASIK.

Can I pay for LASIK with my FSA?

Yes, you can use your FSA to pay for your LASIK procedure in Houston as it is currently recognized by the IRS as a qualified medical expense. However, it’s important to note that FSAs usually have a limited amount of money available and they expire at the end of the year. So if you plan on having LASIK soon, make sure to use your FSA funds before they expire or you may lose them.

Can you use HSA for LASIK?

Similarly, you can use your HSA to pay for your LASIK surgery. Since HSAs have a higher contribution limit and can accumulate over time, they may be a better option for those who need LASIK but can’t afford the full cost upfront.

You may also be able to use your FSA or HSA funds to cover additional costs associated with LASIK such as preoperative exams, corneal mapping, and post-operative follow-up visits. This means that you may be able to reduce the cost of your LASIK surgery even further since these services are often not covered by insurance.

Other options for paying for LASIK

While not all employers offer FSA or HSA plans, many do offer health insurance. But is LASIK covered by insurance? Not always. Medicare and other insurance plans rarely cover the cost of LASIK, while some employers offer vision plans which may help pay for part or all of the procedure.

If you don’t qualify for an FSA or HSA and don’t have health insurance but still want the clear vision that LASIK offers, there are still options available to help make LASIK more affordable. Many surgeons offer financing plans with low-interest rates, which can spread the cost of the procedure out over time. Some doctors may also be able to make special arrangements for patients who are unable to pay for the procedure upfront. Be sure to ask your doctor about any special payment options they may have available.

Eye Center of Texas makes LASIK accessible for all

Taking advantage of an FSA or HSA for LASIK is a great way to make laser vision correction more affordable, and by doing so you can save hundreds of dollars on the cost of your LASIK treatment.

At Eye Center of Texas, we are dedicated to making the LASIK procedure accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Whether you want to use your health insurance, FSA, or HSA to pay for your LASIK procedure, or you want to discuss utilizing our payment plan, our counselors can help you choose the right option for you.

To learn more about paying for your LASIK procedure, schedule an appointment with us today by calling 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online.

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Eye Center of Texas is proud to offer our patients the EVO Visian ICL and Toric ICL procedures in Houston. Both are game-changing, breakthrough procedures that are designed to treat myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. But what are the differences between EVO Visian ICL and Toric ICL, and how do I know if I’m a candidate for these new vision correction surgeries?

The eye surgeons at Eye Center of Texas are here to explain the differences between these minimally invasive, cutting-edge procedures, and tell you if you might be eligible to break free from contact lenses and glasses with an ICL implant.

What is EVO Visian ICL?

EVO Visian ICL received FDA approval in 2022 as a safe and effective treatment for myopia with and without astigmatism. The procedure has been available overseas for years and is clinically proven to correct vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism.

The half-hour, outpatient procedure is minimally invasive. The surgeon implants a biocompatible, flexible Collamer® lens into the eye between the natural lens and iris, allowing the implant to work in harmony with your natural eye, without the removal of any corneal tissue.

Crystal clear vision, excellent night vision, and UV protection are all available without the removal of tissue from the eye — and the procedure is completely reversible. Unlike other vision correction surgeries, the lens is completely removable. Because the procedure involves the addition of a lens, as opposed to the removal of your cornea, you can easily replace the lens should you ever have eye complications that require surgery.

Our very own Dr. Edward C. Wade is the first eye surgeon in Houston, and one of the first surgeons in the state, to offer the EVO Visian ICL procedure. Eye Center of Texas is proud to be at the forefront of innovation. We also have Dr. Yasir Ahmed, one of the first surgeons in Houston to offer the EVO Visian Toric ICL procedure.

What is Toric ICL?

EVO Visian Toric ICL is a version of the EVO Visian ICL procedure that provides eye surgeons with a new tool for treating more advanced cases of myopic astigmatism. Toric ICL treats myopia and astigmatism at the same time and eliminates the standard of correcting the two with separate procedures, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Toric lenses are soft, pliable lenses that have different strengths at different meridians, and allow the lens to rotate and reorient themselves on the cornea. Similar to EVO Visian ICL, the lens is completely replaceable, so should your vision change meaningfully, your eye surgeon can replace the Collamer® lens with minimal discomfort and downtime.

Dr. Yasir Ahmed is one of the first surgeons in the state to offer the Toric ICL procedure in Houston. If you have been searching for vision solutions and are not a good candidate for LASIK due to thin corneas or severe astigmatism, Toric ICL might be the procedure for you.

Benefits of EVO Visian ICL and Toric ICL

Both procedures are low risk, minimally invasive, and are long-term solutions for vision problems. The Visian ICL procedure is FDA-approved for myopia between -3.00 to -20.00 D. The Toric ICL procedure can correct astigmatism in the range of 1.00 to 4.00 D! There is no minimal corneal thickness requirement, making it an option for those with thin corneas, for whom laser-based procedures are not an option. Some other benefits of ICL procedures are:

• Toric lenses have the unique ability to treat myopia and astigmatism
• UV protection
• Excellent night vision
• Short recovery time
• Removable by your doctor
• Does not cause dry eyes
• Does not remove any corneal tissue

If you’re on the path to clear vision and need solutions, the first step is to call Eye Center of Texas, where treatments, check-ups, or vision correction surgery are performed by some of the best surgeons in Texas.

Am I a candidate for an ICL implant?

Some criteria for patients that qualify for ICL are:

• Moderate to severe myopia
• Aged 21-45: ICL is not often performed in patients with presbyopia, or farsightedness, which tends to set in with age
• Correct pupil size — which is not exceptionally large or small
• Six months to one year of static vision prescription: Your surgeon won’t want to perform the procedure if your vision is rapidly changing.
• Not allergic to anesthetic eye drops, as the outpatient procedure requires their use
• Not pregnant or breastfeeding
• Not on steroids or immunosuppressant drugs

You can still receive the procedure if you have dry eyes or thin corneas. Patients with thin corneas, who may not qualify for LASIK in Houston, are often still candidates for ICL implants. The only way to know for sure is to come into Eye Center of Texas for a consultation and to have a doctor tell you what is best for your journey to clear vision.

Interested in EVO Visian ICL or Toric ICL? Call Eye Center of Houston today!

EVO Visian ICL and Toric ICL are non-invasive, long-lasting procedures that can allow you to break away from glasses or contacts — even if you are disqualified from other vision correction surgeries due to thin corneas or severe astigmatism. Whichever procedure is best for you can be determined by our surgeons.

Eye Center of Texas is proud to have two surgeons at the forefront of this technology — Dr. Wade and Dr. Ahmed. Give Eye Center of Texas a call at 713-797-1010 today or request an appointment online to learn more about the exciting new frontier in vision solutions.

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For many, a life without contact and glasses sounds like a dream — but if you suffer from already dry eyes or a thin cornea, you may wonder whether there are good alternatives to LASIK. The good news? The road to better vision doesn’t stop at LASIK. There are several other options such as EVO Visian ICL or photorefractive keratectomy PRK surgery that can bring you the clear vision you’ve been hoping for.

At Eye Center of Texas, we offer a range of vision corrective surgery options including LASIK, EVO Visian ICL, and PRK. Depending on your unique vision and goals of the procedure, one of these procedures may be a great fit for you.

What can you do if you can’t get LASIK?

EVO Visian® ICL Lens

The EVO Visian ICL lens is an implantable Collamer lens that is an excellent alternative to LASIK for astigmatism as well as for patients who are not a good candidate for LASIK due to dry eyes, thin corneas, and high levels of nearsightedness.

When comparing the LASIK vs. ICL procedures, during EVO, a removable lens is placed behind the colored part of your eye (your iris) through a small hole rather than creating a flap and reshaping your cornea with a laser. Not only does this provide most patients with immediate vision improvements, but unlike LASIK which permanently changes the shape of your eye, it allows your eye surgeon to remove the lens at a later date if you require additional eye surgery. The entire procedure is very quick and virtually painless, taking only 20-30 minutes.

Other benefits of EVO Visian ICL include:

• Clear, sharp vision
• Short recovery time
• Offers UV protection
• Not visible once they are placed
• Can improve night vision
• Does not cause dry eyes

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)

Patients that are looking for a safe alternative to LASIK due to dry eyes or thin corneas may want to consider PRK vision corrective surgery. PRK is a refractive surgery that removes the outer layer of your cornea to allow access to the cornea without creating an incision. It then uses a laser to help correct vision loss due to nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism similar to LASIK.

Because the outer layer of your cornea is being removed entirely, the recovery time for PRK is a bit longer than it is for LASIK but it is still a great option for patients who want to break free of their contacts and glasses but aren’t a good candidate for LASIK.

If you’ve already tried LASIK and are curious about additional eye treatments to further improve your vision, you are able to get PRK after LASIK although it is rarely needed.

Refractive lens exchange (RLE)

RLE is a vision corrective surgery that replaces your entire natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens. This is a great alternative to LASIK for patients who struggle with age-related vision changes or presbyopia, a condition that gradually affects the eye’s ability to focus on objects that are close-up.

The RLE procedure is very similar to cataract surgery except in RLE, you’re removing a clear lens rather than a cloudy one. Most patients can resume normal activities after a week of resting but may not experience completely clear vision for a couple of weeks.

What is the safest corrective eye surgery?

Each of the above-mentioned eye surgeries has had high success rates and is considered a safe procedure. That said, the safest corrective eye surgery for you will depend on your vision impairments, individual goals, the thickness of your cornea, and any other existing symptoms.

For example, if you’re looking for LASIK alternatives for dry eyes, you may be a good candidate for either PRK or EVO Visian ICL. But because EVO Visian ICL is only used to treat nearsightedness or nearsightedness with astigmatism, if you have dry eyes and are farsighted, the best alternative for you may be PRK.

Need an alternative to LASIK? Eye Center of Texas can help you choose the right vision corrective surgery for you.

There are many factors to consider when it comes to choosing the right alternative to LASIK for you. You’ll want to take into consideration aspects such as your prescription, other symptoms, your lifestyle, and the types of benefits you are seeking. Fortunately, the best LASIK surgeon in Houston, TX at Eye Center of Texas will be able to tell you whether or not you’re a good candidate for LASIK and inform you of other options to help you achieve your goal of a life without dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

If you’re looking for an eye doctor to help explain your vision corrective surgery options and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs, look no farther than Eye Center of Texas. Our skilled doctors have completed over 75,000 LASIK procedures and are one of the first ophthalmologist practices in Texas to offer the groundbreaking EVO Visian ICL procedure.

Request an appointment with us online or call Eye Center of Texas today at 713-797-1010.

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Have you ever wondered which is best for you: LASIK vs. contacts? LASIK surgery, because of its relative recency and ability to deliver drastic results, can make some potential candidates nervous, many of whom opt to wear contacts for the long run to avoid the risks of surgery. However recent studies have shed some new light on the situation, and shown us that when weighing the risks and rewards in the case of LASIK vs. contacts, the safer choice might surprise you.

The risks of LASIK eye surgery

Is LASIK better than contacts? It’s a question that we often field from candidates for vision correction, and the answer is ‘yes, and no’. But to put it simply, LASIK is a corrective procedure with lasting effects while contact lenses are more akin to a Band-Aid than a permanent solution.

LASIK surgery of course comes with inherent risk, although that risk is minor. Immediately following the procedure you will experience expected loss of vision, dry eyes, and light sensitivity. The time following the surgery can be uncomfortable, and the eye is especially susceptible to postoperative infection, however, the amount of people experiencing serious complications has plummeted in recent years. 

LASIK successfully corrects most patients’ vision to 20/20, with over half of those patients boasting better than 20/20 vision. Most of the reticence towards laser eye surgery comes from the very natural fear of a laser touching one’s eye, but the procedure has such a high success rate and has only gotten safer over time.

Knowing what to expect before and after LASIK eye surgery can turn a difficult experience into a positive one, as can having experienced surgeons, like those at Eye Center of Texas, on your side.

Continue reading: Can you wear contacts after LASIK?

Potential risks of wearing contact lenses

One of the reasons for the high perceived risk of LASIK eye surgery is that the complications are immediate and acute. As with any surgery recovery, there is a short period of discomfort and healing before a patient can take their new eyes for a spin. Potential complications from wearing contact lenses, in contrast, are gradual and slow to develop.

The most common complications from contact wear are corneal damage and infections. Contact wearers often develop infections such as keratitis and conjunctivitis, and problems like dry eyes and lens related discomfort are ubiquitous.

Oregon Health and Science University recently reviewed the topic of LASIK vs. contacts but within the scope of bottom-line loss of vision (which is what everyone fears of after all) and found that there is no real difference in the numbers between those who had LASIK surgery and those that wore contact lenses over an extended period (i.e., as a permanent solution).

While the risks of both wearing contacts and getting LASIK are incredibly low, long-term satisfaction with patients who underwent LASIK is significantly higher than those who chose to keep wearing contacts. As always, it is best to have your questions answered by a professional, read up on what to ask in a LASIK consultation and begin your journey to clearer vision by booking a consultation with Eye Center of Texas today.

Is laser eye surgery cheaper than contacts?

LASIK surgery can be expensive, but so can a lifetime of wearing contact lenses. While LASIK surgery is not covered by health insurance –– it is still considered an elective cosmetic procedure –– contact wearers, if following doctor’s orders, have to shell out an awful lot of cash for multiple consultations and lens changes. While LASIK requires a significant one-time investment, it can quickly become the more cost-effective option when the alternative is paying for lenses, solutions, and doctor visits in perpetuity. 

Although many of the risks associated with wearing contacts are incurred by normal wear, they are exacerbated by non-recommended practices such as sleeping with them in, not changing them enough, and not correctly utilizing contact solution. But normal wear is a standard that has proven difficult to achieve; the CDC estimates that 99% of contact wearers report at least one habit that puts them at risk for serious eye infection. So, in the end, LASIK might be a more cost-effective solution to invest in than contacts.

Am I a candidate for LASIK?

What can disqualify you from LASIK? There are a handful or reasons why somebody would not be a candidate for LASIK surgery:

• You do not qualify for LASIK if you are under 18 years old.
• You could not qualify for LASIK if you have extenuating health complications, including diabetes or auto-immune disorders.
• You could not have enough corneal thickness; if your corneas are under .5mm thick you would not qualify for the surgery.
• If you are pregnant or nursing you will have to wait to qualify due to certain prescription’s effect on hormones.

Beyond these factors, only a specialized LASIK surgeon can consult you on your eye health and make recommendations that get you on the path to clear vision. Wondering if you’re a LASIK candidate? Schedule a consultation with one of the LASIK surgeons at Eye Center of Texas to find out if the procedure is right for you.

Interested in LASIK? Seek Expert Council from the Surgeons at Eye Center of Texas

If you are looking for answers in the great debate of LASIK vs. contacts, look to the experts and let Eye Center of Texas weigh in. Our surgeons have successfully performed over 75,000 successful LASIK procedures, meaning that if you are a LASIK candidate, you will be in great hands. At Eye Center of Texas, we not only operate on the cutting edge of technique and technology but provide personalized care with thorough consultations.

Schedule a consultation by calling 713-395-1515 or by requesting an appointment online.

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The experts at Eye Center of Texas are here to share what you can expect before and after LASIK eye surgery. In LASIK, your ophthalmologist will create a corneal flap using a minimally invasive laser treatment to correct any vision problems you may be having. Though the LASIK eye surgery success rate is 96% and is effective in more than a majority of patients, it is still a good idea to educate yourself on the surgery’s procedures so that you can be as well informed as possible. 

The LASIK before and after results can be life-changing for individuals who need glasses, contact lenses, or other correctional devices to see clearly.

Before LASIK eye surgery

The evaluation exam

Before a doctor can recommend LASIK eye surgery as an option for your vision problems, you will need to undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK. 

If you wear contact lenses, your doctor will recommend that you stop wearing them for a few days prior to your baseline evaluation and wear your glasses instead. Why? As a part of the exam, a digital 3D map of your eye will be made to design a custom treatment for each of your eyes. Contact lenses can change the shape of your cornea, which can lead to inaccurate measurements and a poor surgical plan. These measurements help the surgeon decide how much corneal tissue needs to be removed in order to fix your vision problems, so remember to take them out if you wear contact lenses!

Procedure preparations 

Before the surgery begins, you will be given numbing eye drops to prevent any pain and will be offered anti-anxiety sedatives to reduce any pre-surgery jitters and nervousness (if you so desire). This is to ensure that you will not feel any discomfort during the procedure. Once the surgeon is ready to begin, you will be seated comfortably underneath the laser’s microscope and a device called a speculum will be gently placed on your eyelids to prevent unnecessary blinking. Don’t worry, this device is situated comfortably and will feel painless. The LASIK procedure should last for about 30 minutes or less.

After LASIK eye surgery

Here is what to expect after LASIK eye surgery. 

Post-surgery

When the surgery is complete, you will be put in an examination room where you will relax for about 10-20 minutes. During the procedure, you will be given a mild sedative and your vision will be blurry following the procedure, so it is incredibly important that you find someone to drive you home after your LASIK eye surgery.

Please note that Eye Center of Texas cannot release you to a taxi driver, Uber, or Lyft driver. We want to ensure that our patients get home safely, so find someone trustworthy to take you home. 

Recovery

Rest is key for the first few hours after your LASIK surgery. At a minimum, you should get 2-4 hours of rest once you return home from the facility. Don’t schedule any parties or social gatherings for that night –– get as much rest as you can! While you’re resting, wear an eye mask over your eyes to block out dust and debris and to avoid rubbing them –– rubbing your eyes can reopen the corneal flap as it heals. It is also beneficial to take a few days off of work so that you can focus on resting and letting your eyes heal completely before returning to normal activity.

How long does LASIK flap take to heal? Your corneal flap begins healing immediately after the procedure. It will be mostly healed 24 hours after your procedure. You may not notice improvements in your vision until a week after the surgery. In the meantime, here are some ways to ensure a safe and healthy recovery post-LASIK: 

• Do not do any vigorous exercises or activities
• Do not shower, swim, or get water near your eyes for the first 24 hours post-op
• Do not wear contact lenses while your vision is blurry (you shouldn’t need them anymore, anyway!)
• Do not wear makeup, perfumes, or apply any creams to your face
• Take any prescribed medications and use the preservative-free eye drops after LASIK to keep irritation and inflammation at bay

We recommend waiting at least two weeks before resuming any of these activities to ensure the best results.

Side effects

Here are some common LASIK eye surgery side effects: 

• Blurry vision 
• Dry or itchy eyes
• Watery eyes
• Bloodshot eyes 
• Mild discomfort 
• Sensitivity to light 

If you are experiencing severe pain or these symptoms do not subside after a few days, contact your doctor immediately for an evaluation. 

The lasting effect

How long does LASIK last? LASIK lasts a lifetime. Studies show that 94% of patients were satisfied with their surgery results and did not have to go back to wearing glasses or contact lenses afterward.

You will want to do regular checkups for at least six months after the surgery to ensure the surgery was a success. 

Eye Center of Texas Will Take Care of You Before and After LASIK Eye Surgery

Now that you have a better idea of what happens before and after LASIK eye surgery, you can decide whether or not LASIK is right for you.

If you’re searching for a top LASIK surgeon in Houston, look no further than Eye Center of Texas. Our surgeons have performed over 75,000 successful LASIK eye surgeries that have not only improved our patients’ vision but improved their quality of life. 

If you have any other questions regarding the LASIK before and after process, contact us to speak to a specialist today.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• Do’s and Don’ts after PRK Surgery
• What is PRK Eye Surgery?
• Is PRK Eye Surgery Safe?
• Who is a Candidate for Corneal Transplant?
• Cornea Transplant in Houston: A Guide 

Have you ever had a friend or family member talk about LASIK and wondered if LASIK Eye Surgery Sugar Land is right for you? What are the benefits? The risks? Where can you find someone you trust to take care of something as important as your eyes? Rest assured, the experts at Eye Center of Texas are here to answer your questions in this comprehensive guide to LASIK Eye Surgery in Sugar Land, TX. 

What is LASIK eye surgery?

LASIK eye surgery is a short, 30-minute procedure that uses laser refractive surgery to correct astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness. For the day of your procedure, you should have someone drive you to and from the doctor’s office and avoid wearing any makeup or other cosmetics. 

As for the surgery itself, your doctor will numb your eyes with drops to prevent any pain. Then your doctor will make an incision in your cornea to pull back a thin flap. Once a corneal flap has been made, another laser is used to reshape the tissue beneath according to your condition. 

After that, the flap is put back in place and that’s it! Although you will likely be able to see clearly in a few short hours, your total LASIK recovery time may take anywhere from three to six months.

The most asked question we get about LASIK is, is LASIK safe? The procedure has a 96% success rate and is concerned safe and effective for most patients. If patients do complain about any symptoms post-surgery, complaints can include:

• Dry Eye That Lasts for More than a few Days
• Eye Pain
• Glare or Halo Problems
• Periodic Blurry Vision
• Problems with the Flap
• Reduced Night Vision

If you notice any of these symptoms after your procedure, please contact your surgeon immediately.

Continue reading: Lasik For Astigmatism Correction

How long does LASIK last?

One common question about LASIK eye surgery is whether it is permanent and the answer is a little complicated: yes… for the most part. The procedure permanently changes the shape of your cornea and for most patients, this improves their vision. It is possible for your prescription to regress slightly, but it will most likely remain much improved from your prescription pre-surgery. Some patients may wish for further correction through an additional LASIK procedure many years down the line, but this is not a common experience.

One thing LASIK can’t prevent, however, is the natural aging process of the eye. Cataracts are a common condition in aging eyes that can negatively affect your vision and may require correction. Presbyopia is another condition associated with aging that leads many people to require reading glasses, regardless of their history of vision correction.

Is LASIK Eye Surgery right for me?

Lasik eye surgery is great for anyone with moderate vision loss and no unusual vision problems who are tired of wearing contact lenses or glasses.

If you’ve ever encountered these issues with your corrective devices, then you might want to consider LASIK:

Glasses

• Glare off of monitors
• Losing track of where your glasses are
• Improper fit (pinching tightly or falling off your face)
• Fogged lenses

Contacts

• Difficulty putting them in
• Irritation or tearing
• Eye infection
• Expense   

There are other considerations you should make when deciding on LASIK, such as the cost of LASIK eye surgery. So, is LASIK covered by insurance? Because it is an elective surgery, the LASIK eye surgery cost is generally not covered by insurance and you will likely have to pay out of pocket.

What can disqualify you from LASIK?

If you are or have one of the following conditions, LASIK may not be the right corrective procedure for you:

• Unstable vision for at least a year
• A significant health risk or condition, especially involving your eyes
• Autoimmune diseases or disorders such as HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes
• Eye scarring
• Thin cornea
• Extremely dry eyes
• Pregnant or breast-feeding
• Under 18 years of age

Even if you don’t make a great candidate for LASIK, there may be other options to help improve your vision.

Are there alternatives to LASIK?

Besides the standard corrective measures such as glasses and contact lenses, PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is another popular surgical alternative to LASIK. What is PRK eye surgery? PRK is a laser refractive surgery that has many similarities to LASIK. 

As discussed, the LASIK procedure involves creating a corneal flap under which the doctor reshapes your eye tissue, whereas your entire outer corneal layer is removed with PRK. While that may sound scary, the success rate of the two procedures is very comparable. However, PRK usually requires a longer recovery time since the outer layer needs time to regenerate.

PRK eye surgery is recommended for those who have especially dry eyes or thin corneas. Be sure to consult with your doctor on which option is best suited to your eyes.

Trust Eye Center of Texas with your LASIK Eye Surgery in Sugar Land

If you’ve always wanted to wake up in the morning and see your alarm clock clearly or finally shed your cumbersome glasses or uncomfortable contact lenses, LASIK just might be the right choice for you. 

Eye Center of Texas has multiple locations, including one conveniently located in Sugar Land, staffed with the best medical professionals to help you today. Contact us to get started on your path to clear vision.  

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• Why Would Someone Need a Cornea Transplant?
• Cornea Transplant Recovery
• What Causes Eye Floaters and Flashes?
• Laser Floaters Treatment: YAG Laser Vitreolysis
• Can You Reverse Presbyopia?

It’s important to know what to expect after LASIK surgery. This way, you can avoid unnecessary complications and guarantee a smooth recovery process.

LASIK is a highly effective vision correction surgery. It can have profound and lasting improvements on your vision, and post-surgery complications are extremely rare. However, the average LASIK recovery time can be up to 6 months, and this timeline can become even longer if you partake in certain activities or fail to properly care for your eyes post-surgery.

To make sure your recovery process isn’t hindered, we’ll cover what to expect after LASIK, including LASIK recovery tips and potential complications.

How long does it take for your eye to heal after LASIK?

As we just mentioned, the LASIK recovery time period lasts around 6 months. However, this is in total, and it does not mean you’ll be down for the count the entire 6 months. In fact, you can resume most normal activities after the first 24 hours. This includes driving, working, and reading. 

If you’re wondering, “Can you watch TV after LASIK?”, then you’ll be happy to know that this activity can also be resumed after 24 hours. 

Within the first week, you might notice some light sensitivity and minor eye irritation that may give you the urge to rub your eyes. In fact, approximately 95% of patients said they experienced dry eyes after LASIK. However, after the first few weeks, these side effects should almost completely disappear. For most LASIK patients, it seems that the recovery process ends right around this time. You will be able to resume nearly all normal activities (including swimming), you shouldn’t feel any further irritation, and you won’t need to wear any eye coverings.

This being said, your eyes, especially the corneal flap (to many patients’ concern), will continue to heal (even if it isn’t noticeable) up to the 6-month mark.

What should I avoid after LASIK? 

If you really want to know what to expect after LASIK, then you need to understand that there are a handful of normal activities that you need to avoid at all costs — at least for a certain time period. Here are some of the activities to avoid after your LASIK surgery:

• Do not drive, get on an airplane, or watch TV for 24-48 hours 
• • Do not wear makeup, exercise, or apply facial creams for the first week

• Avoid getting shampoo/soap in your eyes when you shower

• Do not wear contact lenses, play contact sports, or swim for up to a month

Our favorite LASIK recovery tips  

One of the best LASIK recovery tips we can offer is to make sure you avoid the list of items up above for the recommended amount of time. Below are additional tips to help make your recovery process as easy and smooth as possible.

• Remember to protect your eyes from the sun. Wear sunglasses and eye coverings when necessary. 
• The recovery process is different for everyone. Stay in contact with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. 
• Attend all follow-up appointments, even if you feel you don’t need to attend them. 
• Take all medications (and avoid others) as prescribed by your doctor (learn more about the recommended eye drops after LASIK). 
• Ask a friend to help you out during the first day or two after the procedure. Remember, you won’t be able to drive or watch TV, which means you’ll need a ride home from the doctor’s and you may want some company. Learn more about how to help care for someone after LASIK.

What are the risks of LASIK?

Risks or complications associated with LASIK are rare. The only real concern is the possibility of infection. However, this only occurs if you’re not following our LASIK recovery tips and failing to avoid all the unsafe post-LASIK activities. For example, if you decide to swim before the first month is up, there’s a likelihood that you could suffer from some type of bacterial infection.

If you are still concerned about potential issues arising after your operation, speak with your doctor before undergoing LASIK surgery. They’ll be able to reassure you of the benefits of this low-risk procedure.

Ready to get started with LASIK? Contact Eye Center of Texas today.

With over 75,000 successful LASIK eye surgeries under our belt, we’ve quickly become the go-to spot for LASIK surgery in Texas. Our vision experts can help you understand what to expect after LASIK and provide you with the best tools for post-surgery treatment.

If you’re ready to start your LASIK journey, give us a call at 713-395-1515 or contact us online.

 
More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas: 

• What Causes Macular Degeneration?
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• Cataract Surgery Lens Options
• Wet vs. Dry Macular Degeneration
• Do Cataracts Go Away Naturally? 

If you’re wondering what to ask in a LASIK consultation, you’ve come to the right place. At Eye Center Of Texas, we’ve performed over 75,000 successful LASIK surgeries. And as one of the top providers of LASIK in Texas, we have created a list of the top 4 questions to ask during your initial LASIK consultation. 

Take a look at those questions below, and please call us if you have any further questions about LASIK in Houston! 

What is a LASIK consultation? 

Before jumping right into what to ask in a LASIK consultation, let’s do a quick review of what a LASIK consultation actually is. During the consultation, you will meet with a doctor, discuss your goals for LASIK, discuss any eye health or general health complications you have, ask questions, and review your candidacy in general. 

If you’re not sure what to do before a LASIK consultation, that’s OK. Just bring any records regarding your eye health if you have them and prepare a list of questions that are important to you. Don’t be afraid to have tough questions for your LASIK doctor. Good LASIK doctors will be prepared to answer them and to walk you through the process so that you can make a LASIK decision that is best for you.  

1. What are the risks of LASIK?

Many people are wary of eye surgery, so we have gone ahead and put this question as #1 for what to ask in a LASIK consultation to get it out of the way. Fortunately, LASIK is a very common surgery and complications are extremely rare. 

In fact, when it comes to the question of LASIK vs. contacts, LASIK is almost always the safer choice. Under 1% of LASIK patients suffer from complications, as opposed to 5% of contact users. On top of this, LASIK is a fix-it-and-forget-it solution. 

The use of contacts, on the other hand, comes with many issues — dirt, overwearing, outdated prescriptions — all of which you’ll likely encounter on a regular basis, and all of which can lead to more serious complications. 

Meanwhile, infection during LASIK recovery is the most common complications associated with LASIK, although it is rare. Compared to contact use, however, where potential infection is a daily issue, LASIK is ultimately a much safe solution. 

If you’re concerned at all about the risks of LASIK, make sure to bring this question up to your doctor during your LASIK consultation. We know that safety is the number one concern when it comes to what to ask during a LASIK consultation, and will be able to explain what risks may more closely align with your individual eye and health situation.

FAQ: Does the corneal flap heal after LASIK? Yes. Get more answers by clicking the link.

FAQ: Do I need to worry about blinking during LASIK? No. Your eye will be held open and numbed, so you do not need to be concerned about blinking. 

2. Am I a good LASIK candidate?

There are certain situations that could disqualify you for LASIK surgery or could make approval a longer process. At Eye Center of Texas, we begin determining your candidacy for LASIK during your initial LASIK consultation. 

It’s recommended that your prescription be stable for at least 12 months pre-LASIK surgery. There are also certain medical conditions that make LASIK not ideal. However, some conditions that were once considered a no-go for LASIK are now considered safe. 

For example, diabetes and LASIK were once thought of as a poor match, but it has now become more acceptable to undergo LASIK surgery even with diabetes. Ultimately, your candidacy boils down to your individual situation and your control (or lack of control) over any pre-existing medical conditions.

No matter what, the important thing to remember is that you shouldn’t automatically rule out LASIK if you have any pre-existing conditions. Ask your doctor whether or not you are a good candidate, and if you aren’t, determine if there is a path towards candidacy available for you.

Want to get a head start on determining whether you’re a good LASIK candidate? Check out our articles: Is My Vision too Bad for LASIK? And What can LASIK surgery correct?

3. How long do the results of LASIK last?

If you’re willing to undergo surgery, then odds are you want long-lasting results. With LASIK surgery, that’s exactly what you’ll get.

LASIK surgery permanently alters the shape of your cornea, and there is no “wearing off.” If you do suffer from any vision loss in the future, it will be due to the overall health of your eye and will not have anything to do with your LASIK surgery.

However, if your vision does gradually get worse, you can undergo LASIK surgery again. How many times you can have LASIK surgery is dependent on the thickness of your cornea, your eye health, and your overall health. 

Your doctor can help you determine candidacy if you find yourself in need of an additional LASIK surgery. And during your LASIK consultation, your eye doctor can provide you with estimated results based on your individual eye situation. 

4. What is the recovery process like?

The LASIK recovery process differs from person to person. While some patients can see clearly without contacts or glasses the day of their operations, others may not see the full benefits of LASIK for a few weeks. 

Regardless, your eyes will be healing for some time after the surgery, and there are a handful of situations that you’ll want to avoid while you’re in recovery. 

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most common situations you’ll want to avoid post-LASIK surgery:

• Up to 48 hours after surgery: flying, going outside without sunglasses, driving, sleeping without eye patches, washing your face
• Up to 1 week after surgery: exercise, makeup
• Up to 1 month after surgery: contact lenses, sports
• Up to 5 weeks after surgery: swimming

Every patient’s eyes are unique, and your doctor can guide you on what makes the most sense for you and your recovery process. They can answer recovery questions such as What eye drops should I use after LASIK?, Can You watch TV after LASIK?, and more. Make sure that you attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor, so you can discuss your individual situation.

Another thing you’ll want to discuss with your doctor during your LASIK consultation is how to prepare for the recovery process before surgery. For example, you will need someone to drive you home after surgery, and you can give your partner tips for how to care for someone during LASIK recovery. It’s the little things like this that your doctor can cover with you during your LASIK consultation, so you can start making preparations as soon as possible.

Want to know more about the recovery process? Check out our LASIK recovery timeline.

Get ready to ask some LASIK questions!

Now that you know what to ask in a LASIK consultation, it’s time to take the next step and schedule your LASIK consultation. Eye Center of Texas is Houston’s go-to source on all things LASIK. We can help you answer the question, “Am I a LASIK candidate?”, walk you through common LASIK FAQs, and provide you with information on alternative solutions.

Give us a call today at 713-395-1515 and let’s get started on your journey to better vision. 

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• Common Signs of Macular Degeneration
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• How Does Cataract Surgery Work? 
• What is the Cataract Surgery Success Rate
• How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery