Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery is recommended for patients above the age of 18. The eye is still experiencing changes as a person ages and this is true before 18 (or 20) years of age. The surgery is good for patients with impaired vision. Ideal candidates must have healthy eyes along with corneas that have a sufficient amount of thickness that can be reshaped during the procedure. Anyone interested in laser eye surgery should have stable vision for one year before proceeding with the surgery. Individuals with a severe eye disorder are not qualified for this treatment. People with high refractive error in the eyes might be better suited for an implantable contact lens.

The average cost of laser eye surgery is anywhere from $1500-$3000 per eye. The final price depends on a number of factors including the type of laser surgery performed, the geographic location of the procedure, any fees charged by the surgeon or the facility, any medications that are necessary after the surgery and if the procedure is deemed to be medically necessary. If so, some of the cost might be covered by medical insurance.

Any sensitivity or blurry vision disappears within a few days and patients enjoy sharper and clearer vision. It can take several months for the eyes to fully adjust to the new shape of the corneas. It can take 3-6 months for the final results to stabilize. Patients enjoy much better vision after laser eye surgery as well as a reduced dependence on glasses or contacts. Overall, the results of laser eye surgery are permanent but it will not prevent the development of presbyopia which is an age-related condition that causes the natural lenses of the eyes to become less flexible.