LASIK Frequently Asked Questions

Where are you located?

Who qualifies for laser eye surgery?

At Washington University LASIK Center, we believe that every patient deserves the gift of clear vision. If you’re over 18 and wondering whether LASIK could be life-changing for you, our expert team is here to guide you. A complete eye exam will help determine your candidacy, and we offer free screenings to make the first step easy. You deserve personalized care, and we’re committed to finding the best solution for your vision goals. Learn more

What tests are done before LASIK?

Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Before your LASIK surgery, we perform comprehensive tests to assess the shape, thickness, and overall health of your corneas. These detailed measurements ensure that we can tailor the procedure to meet your unique needs. Trust our experienced team to guide you every step of the way, providing reassurance and care as we work toward your brighter future. Learn more

Is LASIK eye surgery painful?

We understand that the thought of surgery can feel intimidating. Rest assured, your comfort is central to our approach. Local anesthetic drops will numb your eyes, and while you may feel a bit of pressure during the procedure, most patients describe the experience as manageable. Some mild stinging or burning may occur afterward, but a short nap often brings significant relief. We’re here to support you, ensuring you’re at ease throughout the process.

Can your eyesight change after laser eye surgery?

While LASIK corrects your current vision prescription, it’s important to know that natural changes in your eyesight may still occur over time. Our team will carefully evaluate the stability of your prescription before recommending surgery to ensure the best long-term results. If your vision does change, we’re here to discuss options like enhancement surgery to help you maintain clarity and confidence in your vision.

How long does it take to recover from LASIK surgery?

Your journey to clearer vision is a quick one! Most patients notice significant improvement within a day, with many returning to work and other activities shortly after surgery. That said, every recovery is unique. Our team will provide you with personalized aftercare instructions to promote healing and ensure the best outcome. We’re here to support you throughout the process—every step of the way.

Do I need to be out of my contacts before LASIK or PRK?

To give your eyes the best chance for accurate evaluation, we recommend avoiding soft contact lenses for at least three days before your consultation. This helps us see your eyes’ natural state and ensures precise measurements for your surgery.

Can you tell if I’m a candidate for laser eye surgery by looking at the prescription from my optometrist?

While your prescription is a good starting point, our in-depth evaluation considers additional factors like corneal health and thickness. We take the time to understand your eyes and create a personalized plan, so you can feel confident about your decision.

Can I schedule online?

Absolutely! Scheduling your no-cost consultation is just a click away. Begin your journey to clearer vision today. Schedule now!

Are there any restrictions after LASIK surgery?

Your healing process matters to us. For the best results, we recommend these steps:

• Rest your eyes the evening after surgery to promote healing.
• Avoid swimming, hot tubs, or dusty environments for two weeks.
• Take a break from eye makeup, gardening, or prolonged screen time for the first week.
• Refrain from driving on surgery day until you’re confident in your vision.
• We’ll provide detailed instructions tailored to your recovery, ensuring you’re supported every step of the way.

Which insurance plans do you accept?

Currently, LASIK and PRK surgeries are not covered by insurance plans.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We offer a variety of payment options, including:

• Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express
• Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Savings Account (FSA)
• Check (Payable to: Washington University LASIK Surgery Center)
• Cash

Let us know how we can make this process as convenient as possible for you.

What is LASIK enhancement?

Your vision journey doesn’t end with surgery. In some cases, an enhancement procedure may be recommended to fine-tune your results after the cornea has fully healed. We’ll ensure you understand all benefits and risks before moving forward, and our team will provide the same level of care and dedication to your enhancement as we do for your initial surgery.