Clearing Up LASIK Confusion

When you think of the phrase “LASIK eye surgery,” what comes to mind? Lasers and 20/20 vision are some of the first things people think about when they hear the phrase, but anything beyond that might be guesswork. Some of the common questions about LASIK include:

What is LASIK eye surgery?

LASIK stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, a procedure where the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) is flattened. It is typically performed to treat hyperopia (farsightedness), myopia (nearsightedness), and astigmatism.

Are lasers actually used in LASIK?

As the acronym implies, LASIK procedures use an ultraviolet laser called an excimer laser programmed to remove a specific amount of corneal tissue from the eye. CEENTA uses two distinct lasers for this operation: The EX500 Excimer Laser and the FS200 Femtosecond Laser. They allow for consistent and accurate results based on the patient’s specific needs.

Are LASIK patients put under general anesthesia?

Given the nature of LASIK, patients who undergo this surgery are not put under general anesthesia. Instead, they are given local anesthesia topically with eye drops to numb the eye before the operation.

Is LASIK painful?

LASIK is considered a fast, pain-free procedure. Minor pain and discomfort after the procedure is common, but severe pain is an extremely rare occurrence. Patients experiencing pain can use eye drops to help mitigate any post-surgery symptoms.

Do LASIK patients have to stay overnight?

As an outpatient procedure, LASIK can be done in as little as ten minutes. Patients who undergo LASIK will stay at the facility for a short amount of time for observation before being released. Due to the nature of the surgery, LASIK patients will need to have a driver to take them home for immediate rest.

Is LASIK a permanent procedure?

One of the more common misconceptions about LASIK eye surgery is that it is a temporary vision fix, which causes potential patients to turn away. However, LASIK is a permanent procedure with results that last nearly a lifetime for most patients. Naturally reduced vision is still expected as you age, but the procedure can remedy common vision problems without the need for eyewear or contact lenses.

How do I schedule a LASIK eye appointment?

If you or a loved one are interested in LASIK, you can schedule an appointment with a CEENTA LASIK surgeon online or through myCEENTAchart. You’ll be given a screening that includes a complete eye exam, specialized imaging and testing, and a full consultation about risks and anticipated results. From there, your LASIK surgeon will set up a future date to schedule your procedure.

Patients aren't the only ones who have enjoyed LASIK procedures. Dr. Lee Wiley, a CEENTA LASIK surgeon at our Pineville and Steele Creek offices, has also touted the treatment's success. "Laser vision correction has become incredibly precise over the years and the safety profile has improved with new state of the art bladeless technology. I actually began to envy my own patients' success so I went ahead and got LASIK also. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made."

Ready for a world without foggy glasses? Schedule your LASIK appointment with Dr. Wiley at our Pineville and Steele Creek offices or Dr. William Hammonds at our SouthPark office today for a truly clear experience!

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor. New patients can make appointments online with our eye doctors in North and South Carolina. Current patients can also make appointments through myCEENTAchart with physicians they have already seen.