LASIK works by using a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, so that it can better focus light onto the retina at the back of the eye. During the procedure, your LASIK surgeon creates a thin flap on the cornea, which is then lifted to expose the underlying tissue. The laser is then used to remove some of the tissue, reshaping the cornea to the desired curvature. The flap is then repositioned, acting as a natural bandage, allowing the eye to heal without stitches. This reshaping of the cornea corrects refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, resulting in clearer vision with reduced dependence on glasses and contact lenses.
The recovery period for LASIK is typically brief. Although the exact time varies from patient to patient, you can expect to see improved vision and return to work within a couple of days. It will most likely take a couple of weeks for your eyes to be healed entirely; until then, you should avoid activities such as swimming and driving at night. It is also imperative to keep your eyes clean of any soap, lotions, or debris.
The costs of LASIK may vary. If you are interested in LASIK eye surgery but are concerned about the cost, remember that LASIK is permanent. With LASIK, most people can significantly reduce their dependence on glasses and contacts. LASIK sounds expensive because it is one lump sum charge. If you add up costs for eye exams, glasses, contacts, and contact solutions over ten years, you will see that LASIK is an investment that will save you money!
At Arlington Eye Center, we want our patients to achieve the best vision possible. Laser vision correction procedures like LASIK are considered elective procedures and are not covered by insurance; however, it may be tax deductible depending on your filing status. In addition, many patients choose to pay for their procedure using their tax refund. Arlington Eye Center is pleased to offer affordable interest-free and extended payment plans.
Learn MoreOnly those who qualify as a candidate for LASIK are eligible to get the procedure. Good candidates for LASIK:
When you schedule a LASIK consultation, your LASIK surgeon will assess all of these requirements before determining your candidacy!
Dr. Shazia Ahmed, MD, is a Board Certified and Fellowship Trained Surgeon at Arlington Eye Center. She graduated Magna cum Laude with Honors from Brown University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. She earned her Doctorate in Medicine from Medical College of Georgia. She completed her residency in Ophthalmology at Tufts Medical Center followed by a Cornea and Anterior Segment Fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine. She believes there is no greater gift than restoring a person's vision and allowing them to maintain their independence. Her specific clinical and surgical interests include ocular surface disease, complex cataract surgery, laser vision correction and corneal transplantation.
There are many benefits of choosing LASIK. Here are a few:
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Arlington, VA 22205
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