When you think of using tax return dollars, what comes to mind? That highly anticipated purchase, a little splurge, or padding a savings account for a rainy day? It might surprise you to learn that LASIK is a common use of tax returns and use-it-or-lose it FSA funds. It becomes much less surprise, however, when we consider the long term investment in your vision and physical health.

When consulting with patients about corrective vision treatments, there are a number of frequently asked questions we hear. If you’re considering using your return on LASIK, please read on to learn more about whether it’s the right fit for you. 

Who is LASIK a fit for?

Most often, LASIK may be a fit for adults ages 21-45 who have poor vision, are tired of glasses and contacts, and/or those in physically demanding professions where glasses and contacts may interfere with their work. 

While there are exceptions, in adults prior the age of 21, adults 45 and older, and women who are pregnant or looking to become pregnant, there is the potential for large changes in vision to occur, meaning LASIK may not be the best fit.

What is LASIK?

The acronym stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. This procedure uses a laser to make a small incision in the eye creating a flap allowing us to reshape the cornea to correct myopia, hyperopia, and presbyopia. See related – What is LASIK?

What does LASIK treat?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, meaning not seeing well at a distance. A common example of this is not being able to clearly see street signs if you take off your glasses while driving.

Hyperopia, or farsightedness, meaning not seeing well up close. This person might be able to see well at a distance, but seeing or reading items up close is not clear.

Astigmatism, or irregular eye shape that can cause blurry vision.

On occasion, LASIK may also be helpful to those who are developing early stages of cataracts for improved vision.

What does LASIK not treat?

Corrective Presbyopia, or a loss in lens flexibility. In young eyes, we are able to quickly change our focal distance from seeing up close to seeing far away. As we age, we may lose this lens flexibility making it difficult to transition between the two distances. 

In some cases, it’s possible to make LASIK adjustments for a dominant eye to see at a distance and a non-dominant eye to see up close to make the focal transition easier. In many cases, however, the brain will not tolerate this adjustment. We recommend testing this with a contact lens that simulates the results prior to surgery and to determine how well it would function for the individual.

What should I look for in a LASIK clinician?

First and foremost, you should look for the provider and experience that feels right for you. Every eye is unique, and for this reason we believe corrective procedures should be tailored to the needs of the individual rather than a pre-programmed surgical procedure. See related Types of LASIK Treatment.

At Genstler Eye Center, we pride ourselves on creating customized experiences for every patient. Our Doctors consult with each patient prior to treatment in order to assess the right solutions for you, and should LASIK be the route you take, your consulting Doctor and your surgeon will almost always always be the same. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (785) 273-8080 or fill out the form below.