What is LASIK?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is an FDA-approved laser eye surgery that has been performed over 20 million times worldwide since 1995. It uses refractive laser technology to gently reshape the cornea and to channel the focus of light in the eye more efficiently. The advanced LASIK technology available at our Houston office allows our experienced surgeons to fully customize treatments to each patient’s unique vision needs.
Determining LASIK Candidacy
During a LASIK consultation, an ophthalmologist (eye doctor specialized in vision correction surgery) will conduct a comprehensive exam to determine your eligibility for LASIK eye surgery. They will measure your prescription strength, eye pressure, corneal thickness, pupil size and the ability of your eyes to produce sufficient moisture. Your ophthalmologist will also discuss your medical history and expectations for vision correction.
Based on the results of your exam, the doctor can advise if LASIK is right for you or if another procedure like PRK, SMILE, or light-adjustable lenses may be better. Safety is the priority. Therefore, if you are a candidate for LASIK, the surgeon will explain the process, recovery time, and risks in detail.
Is LASIK right for you? Based on national averages, over 95% of people in Houston who wear glasses or contacts are likely good candidates for LASIK.
Take the LASIK Self-Evaluation
An Overview of the LASIK Eye Surgery Procedure
What to Expect Before the LASIK Procedure
When you arrive for your LASIK treatment, you’ll first meet with our surgical staff and the LASIK eye surgeon performing your procedure to discuss the surgery and prepare for the process ahead.
The LASIK Procedure Step-by-Step
On the day of surgery, once you arrive at the surgery center and are getting prepped for the procedure, numbing eye drops are administered for your comfort and then your eyes are cleaned under the watchful eyes of the surgeons. Your eyes will be held open with an instrument called a lid speculum and the surgeon will create a protective corneal flap using a femtosecond laser or microkeratome. This flap is lifted, allowing the doctor to reshape your cornea with the excimer laser based on your specific vision needs. The flap is then laid back into place, acting as a natural bandage and the procedure is over. Overall the entire procedure takes 10-15 minutes on average, with patient safety being of the utmost importance.
What to Expect After LASIK Surgery
You may feel mild stinging or blurry vision immediately after, but this typically resolves within 24 hours. Your eyes may be sensitive to light and touch as they heal over the next several days. Follow your doctor’s post-op instructions carefully. Within a week, you can expect significantly improved vision without the need for glasses or contacts.
Is LASIK Safe?
Yes, LASIK, endorsed by eye doctors and surgeons worldwide, is considered one of the most successful and safe elective surgeries available with over twenty million LASIK procedures having been performed globally.
With today’s advanced LASIK technology, over 95% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. You may still need glasses for reading or night driving as you age, but you’ll be back to golfing at Bluejack National or playing pickleball at PALA within days. This time with much better vision, and fewer excuses.
Though rare, under the vigilant care of the doctors, some patients may need a follow-up enhancement procedure for best results, but LASIK has the highest satisfaction rating of any elective procedure in the United States, with an average of 95.4% of patients being happy with their outcome after LASIK surgery. The vast majority of people are thrilled with their new freedom from glasses and contacts after LASIK surgery.
Enjoy the Life-Changing Benefits of LASIK
In just 10-15 minutes per eye, LASIK, performed by the experienced eye surgeons, can effectively correct common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.The precision of the LASIK laser vision correction procedure, which is a type of refractive surgery, allows the corneal tissue to be reshaped with micron-level accuracy, providing clear vision without glasses or contacts. This vision correction surgery, heavily reliant on lasers, is largely popular among Texans.
- Quick, customized treatments using advanced technology.
- Performed by top surgeons with years of experience.
- Enhanced affordability through financing plans.
- Long-term cost savings over glasses and contact lenses.
- Over 95% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better.
- Return to normal activities the day after surgery.
How Much Does LASIK Cost?
LASIK is an elective procedure, so costs vary based on the technologies used, including lasers, and the surgeon’s experience. In general, the standard LASIK surgery, performed by accredited ophthalmologists, is between $2,250 to $3,890 per eye in Texas, more precisely Houston. More complex cases requiring additional customization on corneas may cost more.
During your initial evaluation at our Houston, office, your ophthalmologist will assess if you a potential LASIK candidate and provide a price quote based on the specific LASIK treatment recommended for your eyes. Many financing plans are also available to make this life-changing investment in your vision affordable, and we provide LASIK affordability calculation tools for patients to explore what options work best for them. The benefits of freedom from glasses and contacts make LASIK well worth the price for most lasik candidates.
Choosing Your Houston LASIK Surgeon
“I’ve been performing LASIK and vision correction surgeries in Houston for over 20 years. After tens of thousands of procedures, I can assure you how effective the LASIK procedure can be at improving people’s vision. It is a great choice for those looking to be free from glasses and contacts, and is one of the safest elective medical procedures performed in the US today,”
Dr. Fred Mattioli, LASIK Surgeon
Mattioli Vision has a reputation of being an excellent LASIK surgery center in Texas. With over 65,000 successful procedures, Dr. Fred Mattioli is widely considered one of the highest ranked LASIK surgeons in Houston. He aims to achieve nothing but the best possible LASIK outcomes for his patients. With over 20 years specializing in LASIK, our staff uses the latest technology and techniques, tailored specifically to the corneas of our patients, giving them access to the best options.
If you live in Houston, Texas and want to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, LASIK is likely your best option.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of Houston’s top-rated LASIK laser eye surgery centers.
Frequently Asked Questions About LASIK
What is the Minimum and Maximum Age for LASIK Eye Surgery?
You must be at least 18 years old to have LASIK, with there being no official maximum age for LASIK eye surgery. That said, candidates tend to be 18 to 40 years old, with other refractive procedures being more appropriate for individuals over the age of 40.
Is LASIK Painful?
LASIK surgery involves minimal discomfort due to numbing of the eyes before surgery begins, with most patients experiencing only slight pressure and a quick recovery period.
After applying drop anesthetics, you lie on the laser bed and stare at the central target light. You can blink anytime you want, just stare straight. You may feel some pressure for 10-20 seconds and/or cold eye drops placed periodically, but that’s about it.
How long does the LASIK procedure take?
The actual LASIK surgery procedure typically lasts only 10-15 minutes.
Is LASIK permanent?
LASIK surgery results are generally permanent, but vision changes related to age, such as presbyopia, may require additional care or treatments.
Can LASIK be done on both eyes at the same time?
Yes. If both eyes need treatment, surgery is usually done on both eyes in the same appointment.
How soon can I see after LASIK surgery?
Most will notice some improvement as soon as the treatment is complete. Although, your vision will still be foggy and you will require a driver to make it home. In most cases, a patient’s vision will greatly improve the next day and will be capable of driving.
What are some potential risks and complications of LASIK surgery?
Complications are rare, but possible risks include dry eyes, night vision issues, and the need for a touch-up after the first procedure.
Dr. Mattioli only performs LASIK eye surgery on people who are true candidates for LASIK. Alternatives such as PRK, SMILE, and RLE are available for those who after their consultation are deemed to be better candidates for those based on their unique eye anatomy.
Is it possible to utilize a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for LASIK surgery?
Yes, patients can use their FSA funds to cover some or all of the costs associated with LASIK surgery.
When can I go back to work after getting LASIK?
For most occupations, patients typically can go back to work by the next day after LASIK surgery.
When can I get back to playing sports after getting LASIK?
Many athletes can resume their sports activities shortly after the surgery, within 24-72 hours with proper care.
When can I wear makeup again after having LASIK?
Generally by the third day with careful application and removal of any products used around the eyes.
Schedule Your LASIK Consultation Today!
If you live in Houston and want to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, LASIK is likely your best option. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of Houston’s top rated LASIK eye centers.
Mattioli Vision Professionals
Houston Eye Surgery Center
At our world class Houston laser surgery center, you’ll always be greeted by a caring and attentive staff. We’re devoted to making your LASIK experience as comfortable and personalized as possible. You’ll never feel rushed or treated like “just another number.” The uncertainty of cut-rate procedures doesn’t exist here, and your health is our number one priority.
The content on this page has either authored or reviewed by Dr. Fred Mattioli.
