If you’ve been living with glasses or contact lenses and are ready for a lifestyle change, LASIK surgery might be on your mind. Reeve Woods Eye Center is here to provide you with expert insight into LASIK and what you should consider before undergoing the procedure.

What Is LASIK?

LASIK is a refractive surgery that reshapes the cornea to improve how light is focused onto the retina. This quick, outpatient procedure is widely known for correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, often reducing or eliminating the need for corrective lenses.

Who Is a Good Candidate for LASIK?

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for LASIK. An ophthalmologist will evaluate several factors to determine your eligibility, including:
 

• Age: Patients should generally be 18 or older with a stable vision prescription for at least one year.

• Corneal Thickness: A healthy cornea with sufficient thickness is crucial for reshaping during LASIK.

• Eye Health: Conditions such as dry eye, keratoconus, cataracts, or glaucoma may disqualify you or require alternative treatment options.

• Overall Health: Autoimmune conditions or certain medications may affect healing and outcomes.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Eye Exam

Before moving forward with LASIK, a thorough pre-operative evaluation is essential. Our ophthalmologists perform detailed diagnostics to assess your eye health, corneal topography, and prescription stability. This step ensures your safety and helps determine the best vision correction method for your unique needs.

What Are the Risks?

LASIK is considered safe and effective, but like any surgical procedure, it carries some risk. Potential side effects may include:
 

• Dry eyes

• Halos or glare at night

• Undercorrection or overcorrection

A trusted ophthalmologist will discuss these risks with you openly, helping you make an informed decision.

Life After LASIK

Most patients report significant improvement in vision within 24 hours after the procedure, with full recovery typically taking a few weeks. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and visual acuity. It’s important to follow all post-operative instructions and attend scheduled check-ins with your eye doctor.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

LASIK can be a life-changing procedure, but the decision to move forward should be made with the guidance of a qualified ophthalmologist. We’re committed to helping you achieve clearer vision safely and confidently.

Schedule a comprehensive LASIK consultation at Reeve Woods Eye Center and find out if you’re a candidate for laser vision correction. Visit our office in Chico, California, or call (530) 317-EYES to book an appointment today.