LASIK FAQs

Is LASIK safe?
LASIK is usually safe provided you are a good candidate. The success rate for LASIK averages above 95% for most experienced ophthalmologists. Do your research to see if you are a good candidate prior to having LASIK.

What are the risks associated with LASIK?
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with LASIK. Common side effects are starbursts, difficulty with glare and night vision, and foreign body sensation. Most of these side effects are temporary and should pass within a few days or weeks of the surgery. Approximately one to two percent of patients will have permanent side effects.

Is LASIK painful?
Because of the minimal amount of tissue affected, LASIK is typically an almost painless procedure. Most patients complain of mild discomfort, but this usually can be controlled with medication.

What kind of result should I expect?
It is very common to see doctors advertising claims of 20/20 vision in all of their LASIK patients. However, 20/20 vision does not occur with every surgery. You should expect to have improved vision and reduced dependency on your glasses.

How much does LASIK cost?
At one time, LASIK averaged about $2,500 per eye, but over the years, the cost for LASIK has declined. The average price for LASIK is now $1,500-$2,000 per eye. Recently, some national LASIK chain companies have advertised prices below $1,000 per eye. However, the American Academy of Ophthalmology cautions patients not to choose their doctor based on price. Instead, the AAO encourages people to choose their doctor based on experience level. Most insurance companies do not pay for LASIK surgery in Chicago or anywhere else.

What is LASIK?
Frequently Asked Questions about LASIK
Benefits and Risk of LASIK