I take my responsibility as a LASIK eye surgeon in San Diego very seriously. One of the most important parts of my job is to ensure that you are completely educated about your LASIK options, while putting any of your concerns at ease. I want you to have all of the LASIK information you need to make educated choices, and I am always happy to answer your questions. As your San Diego LASIK surgeon, you will have my personal email and phone number to get in touch with me whenever you need to.
I have found that many of the patients who have trusted me with their care have similar questions about LASIK eye surgery.
Is LASIK eye surgery safe?
LASIK has an excellent safety record, and new technology continues to improve its safety profile. There are a few risks and potential side effects, including the following:
- Halos
- Glare
- Sensitivity to light
- Dry eyes
- Infection
- Fluctuations in vision
- Difficulty driving at night
Selecting an experienced and knowledgeable surgeon minimizes the risk of complications from LASIK. I believe in treating patients like family and will do everything possible to keep you safe and for you to have excellent vision following surgery. Also, I will personally consult with you whenever needed to address any concerns or fears you have.
Can I have both eyes done at the same time (or in the same appointment)?
Yes, it is possible (and many patients prefer) to have both eyes treated at the same time.
Does LASIK hurt?
No, LASIK surgery is not painful or uncomfortable. Prior to the surgery, your eyes will be fully numbed with special eye drops. You may also be given a mild sedative to help you relax before your LASIK eye surgery appointment. During the procedure, you might feel a little bit of pressure as the laser works, but no pain.
After the LASIK procedure, you may experience a small amount of discomfort, which you can alleviate with a mild pain reliever such as ibuprofen, naproxen or acetaminophen.
When can I return to driving?
You will not be able to drive yourself home from your LASIK appointment, because your vision may be blurry and you may be drowsy from the sedative medication. After surgery a friend or family member should drive you home, where you can relax the remainder of the day. You should also arrange a ride to your follow-up appointment (the next day), where I will personally check your eyesight and advise whether you can resume driving.
Does LASIK surgery have any side effects?
Possible side effects are unlikely but can include the following:
- Dry, sensitive or irritated eyes
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Halos or glare around bright lights at night
The aforementioned side effects are normally temporary and resolve in the days and weeks following LASIK surgery while you recover. Long-term side effects are very rare.
Will I need to continue using glasses after LASIK?
Most of my patients achieve 20/20 vision post-op and no longer need to wear glasses or contacts after LASIK; if they do, they need a much lower prescription or only need them in certain circumstances (such as driving at night).
Let Me Answer Your Questions about LASIK
If you have additional questions about LASIK, or if you would like to discuss your LASIK candidacy with me, I invite you to contact my San Diego office at (858) 551-4100 or send me an email.