LASIK Consultation & Co-Management

What is LASIK? 

LASIK is a modern, minimally invasive procedure that can substantially reduce or eliminate your need to use eyeglasses or contact lenses. The popularity and success of LASIK eye surgery have helped to make it the number-one elective surgery across the globe.

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) uses an excimer laser (an ultraviolet laser) to remove a thin layer of corneal tissue, reshaping the cornea so that light rays focus directly on the retina. This improves vision and reduces a person’s need for glasses or contact lenses. For a nearsighted person, the goal of LASIK is to flatten the too-steep cornea. With farsighted people, a steeper cornea is desired. LASIK can also correct astigmatism by smoothing an irregular cornea into a more normal shape. 

Who is a good candidate for LASIK? 

LASIK has an extremely high success rate. According to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, 96% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. However, its high success rate doesn’t make LASIK automatically the right solution for everyone.

Our eye doctor assesses LASIK candidacy on a case-by-case basis to ensure that the procedure improves your vision as much as possible. During your LASIK consultation in Herndon, Dr. Khaldieh will perform a thorough examination of your eyes and vision, ask you about your general health, and talk to you about the procedure and aftercare. 

What to expect after LASIK eye surgery 

After surgery, the eyes might temporarily be dry even though they do not feel that way. One eye drop will be prescribed to prevent infection and inflammation and another eye drop to keep eyes moist. These drops may cause a momentary slight burn or blurry vision when using them. Do not use any eye drops not approved by the LASIK surgeon.

Healing after LASIK eye surgery usually occurs very rapidly. Vision may be blurry and hazy on the first day, but most patients notice improved vision within a few days of surgery. Our team at Beyond Eyecare will schedule a follow-up evaluation 24 to 48 hours after LASIK eye surgery, as well as at regular intervals within the first six months.

What are the advantages of LASIK eye surgery? 

LASIK has many benefits, including: 

• Vision is corrected nearly by the day after LASIK. 

• LASIK causes a dramatic reduction in eyeglass or contact lens dependence and many patients no longer need them at all. 

• Adjustments can be made years after LASIK to further correct vision if vision changes with age. 

• LASIK is associated with very little pain due to the numbing eye drops used. 

• No bandages or stitches are required after LASIK. 

Are you considering PRK surgery?

We also offer PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) consultations at Beyond Eyecare. PRK is another effective laser eye surgery option that can improve your vision and reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses. PRK is an excellent option for patients with thinner corneas or those who may not be ideal candidates for LASIK. Dr. Khaldieh will evaluate your eyes and discuss whether PRK might be a better fit for your vision correction needs. 

If you are considering LASIK surgery or another procedure, schedule a LASIK consultation in Herndon at Beyond Eyecare.