LASIK surgery reshapes the cornea to correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. For those hoping to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, it’s a safe and effective option with a fast recovery time and long-lasting results.
LASIK surgery reshapes the cornea using a precise laser to correct refractive errors that cause blurry vision.
By adjusting how light enters the eye, LASIK enables the cornea to focus more accurately on the retina, resulting in clearer vision and reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
What Is LASIK?
LASIK stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis. It’s a type of refractive surgery designed to correct the shape of the cornea—the clear, front surface of your eye—so light focuses properly on the retina.
If the cornea is misshapen, it can cause refractive errors such as:
- Myopia (nearsightedness), where distant objects appear blurry
- Hyperopia (farsightedness), where close-up objects are harder to see clearly
- Astigmatism, where irregular curvature causes distorted or blurry vision at all distances
By precisely reshaping the cornea with a laser, LASIK enables light to focus more accurately, resulting in clearer vision.
How the LASIK Procedure Works
The LASIK procedure typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, with the actual laser time typically lasting just a few seconds. It’s done on an outpatient basis and involves the following steps.
Consultation & Mapping
During your consultation, your optometrist can help determine if you’re a good candidate for LASIK. They complete a comprehensive eye exam to assess overall eye health, measure your prescription, and evaluate your corneal thickness and shape.
Your eye doctor may use a corneal topographer to create a detailed 3D map of the eye. The scan can help your eye surgeon customize the laser treatment.
Numbing & Preparation
Before the procedure begins, numbing eye drops are applied to keep you comfortable. You’ll remain awake but relaxed throughout.
Creating the Corneal Flap
A femtosecond laser or microkeratome creates a thin flap on the cornea’s surface. Your eye surgeon carefully lifts the flap to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
Reshaping the Cornea
An excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea. It emits cool ultraviolet light pulses that remove microscopic amounts of tissue, custom-tailored to your vision correction needs.
Repositioning the Flap
Once your eye surgeon has finished reshaping the cornea, they gently place the flap back into position. It adheres naturally without the need for stitches and begins to heal immediately.
What to Expect After LASIK
Most people experience noticeably improved vision within 24 hours. Some mild discomfort, such as dry eyes, irritation, or light sensitivity, is common in the first 1–2 days, but typically subsides quickly.
LASIK Recovery Timeline
Days 1–2: Rest and avoid rubbing your eyes. You may notice clearer vision immediately, but fluctuations are normal. You’ll meet with your eye care provider the day after your surgery to check on your healing.
First week: You may resume most daily activities; however, avoid swimming and wearing eye makeup.
First month: Vision continues to stabilize. Regular follow-ups help monitor the healing process and promote positive outcomes.
Most patients reach their full visual outcome within 1–3 months. However, full recovery can take 3–6 months.
While rare, possible side effects include dry eyes, halos around lights, or glare at night; however, these symptoms often improve with time.
Is LASIK Right for You?
LASIK is an effective treatment for many people, but it’s not suitable for everyone. You may be a good candidate if you:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have a stable prescription for at least one year
- Have healthy eyes free from infection or severe dryness
- Have adequate corneal thickness
- Are not pregnant or nursing
- Understand the benefits & limitations of the procedure
Your eye doctor may recommend considering alternative vision correction options if you have thin corneas, certain eye diseases, or systemic health conditions.
Benefits of LASIK
LASIK offers several potentially life-changing advantages:
- Quick procedure & recovery
- Most patients are in and out in under an hour & see improvement within a day
- Long-term vision correction
- Results are generally stable for years & often decades
- Sense of freedom
- Feel less restricted than you would with glasses or contact lenses
- Minimal downtime
- You can return to normal activities within days
- Proven safety
- LASIK has been performed for over 25 years with a high satisfaction rate
Common Myths About LASIK
There’s a lot of information out there—some of it misleading. Here are a few common misconceptions:
- “It’s painful.” Most patients feel only mild pressure; numbing drops promote comfort during the procedure.
- “It’s risky.” LASIK is one of the most studied and safest elective surgeries.
- “Results don’t last.” In reality, many patients enjoy clear vision for decades. Only a small percentage may need enhancements later in life.
- “It’s only for severe vision problems.” Even mild prescriptions can be improved with LASIK.
What Happens if You’re Not a Candidate?
If you’re not a candidate for LASIK, don’t worry—there are other options. These may include:
- PRK (photorefractive keratectomy), a surface-based laser procedure that has similarly successful outcomes to LASIK but is more suitable for thin corneas
- SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction), a minimally invasive laser procedure for nearsightedness (myopia)
- Refractive lens exchange or implantable contact lenses (ICLs), to insert a thin, corrective lens
Your optometrist can guide you toward a treatment option that suits your unique vision and eye health.
How to Begin Your LASIK Journey
While a specialized eye surgeon performs the procedure, your optometrist plays an essential role in your LASIK experience. From the initial consultation to postoperative follow-ups, your optometrist is committed to keeping you fully informed, comfortable, and supported.
That includes:
- Assessing your candidacy through a detailed eye exam
- Referring you to a trusted LASIK surgeon
- Providing pre- & postoperative care
- Monitoring your healing & long-term visual outcomes
Your Trusted Partner in Eye Care
Whether you’re tired of glasses fogging up, struggling with contact lens discomfort, or simply curious about long-term solutions, LASIK could be a step toward more visual freedom.
If you’re interested in LASIK or want to find out if you’re a candidate, the Waterloo Vision Care Clinic team is here to help. We combine modern technology with a personalized, family-focused approach to care, guiding you every step of the way with confidence and clarity.
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward seeing life more clearly.
