Procedure Match FAQ
Which Procedure Can You Get?
There is no one-size-fits-all vision correction solution, and LASIK eye surgery is only one of many options. For example, if you are not a candidate for laser eye surgery, Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL) are an excellent option that provides unmatched clarity. Depending on factors such as your age, eye characteristics, glasses prescription strength, astigmatisms, and other health conditions you have, you may be a good candidate for some procedures but not for others. Take our fast and easy self-test now to find out which procedure may work best to help you achieve great vision! Follow up by booking an in-person consultation so we can confirm and discuss your options directly with you.Typical Candidacy by Age
| Age Range | Procedure You May Qualify For | Surgery Outcome |
| 18 – 40 | LASIK (18+) | Permanent |
| SMILE (22+) | Permanent | |
| EVO ICL (21-45) | Permanent Removable/Changeable | |
| 40 – 50 | LASIK | Permanent |
| EVO ICL | Removable/Changeable | |
| 45+ | RLE/Permanent Prescription Lens | Permanent |
The FDA has approved LASIK surgery for patients age 18 and older. You may qualify for LASIK, SMILE, or ICL if you are over 18 years old and your vision prescription hasn’t changed for at least one year.
If your prescription is still changing from year to year, we recommend coming to see us for your baseline prescription measurement and we can monitor your vision with you.
There are a variety of factors to determine if you’re a good laser eye surgery candidate. Age is not an automatic disqualifier. The best option is to get evaluated by our team of medical professionals.
After age 40, many people start to experience presbyopia, which makes it more difficult to focus on near objects. Some procedures require blended vision to see both near and far, while specialized lens implants we use can help see both distances. Implantable lens procedures like RLE/Permanent Prescription Lens Replacement might be a better option if you are over age 45.
There are two general types of vision correction surgery – laser and implantable lenses. This is a quick summary of the pros and cons of each type:
Pros – Laser eye surgery
- Widely performed procedure with a long track record of success
- Minimally invasive
- Rarely needs to be redone
- Quick recovery, with next day driving vision
- Generally less expensive than implantable lenses
Cons – Laser eye surgery
- Not suitable if you have thin corneas or a high prescription
- Dry eyes can be a common side effect, though usually temporary and manageable with eye drops
- Some patients temporarily experience halos or glare after the procedure
- The lens in the eye continues to age leading to vision changes in older age
Pros – Implantable lenses
- Widely performed procedure with a long track record of success
- Wider candidacy range, including those who aren’t ideal candidates for laser eye surgery
- Exceptional visual quality with next day driving vision
- Can address both nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, potentially eliminating need for reading glasses
- Long-lasting results that will not regress
Cons – Implantable lenses
- Requires higher surgeon skill
- Need to follow precautions during the 1 to 2 week healing period
- Higher cost
Pricing can vary depending on the specific procedure chosen and your individual needs. This cost is an investment in your long-term vision and freedom from glasses or contacts.
The price of our procedures are based on the highly advanced technology we use and Dr. Mattioli’s extensive experience, both of which ensure optimal results and your safety. Our price ranges fall within U.S. averages for high quality practices such as ours.
The recommended length of time to wait after your procedure before wearing makeup again is typically:
- LASIK – one week after surgery
- SMILE – one day after surgery
- EVO ICL – two weeks after surgery
- RLE/Cataract – two weeks after surgery
- Pterygium/Carnosidad – two weeks after surgery
- PRK – one week after surgery
