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Should You Get LASIK Under 20?

The freedom of ditching glasses and contacts for crisp, clear vision is a dream for many. LASIK eye surgery offers a permanent solution to refractive errors, but the question of age often arises. Can you get LASIK under 20? The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) mandates that the minimum age for LASIK surgery is 18 years. This regulation is in place because the eye continues to change and develop throughout adolescence and their is importance in waiting until the eyes have reached a certain level of maturity.

Ongoing Changes in Eyes Under 20

Refractive Instability

Refractive instability is a condition where an individual’s prescription for glasses or contact lenses changes frequently. During the teenage years, eyes are still maturing, and this can lead to fluctuations in vision. For LASIK to be effective and long-lasting, the prescription needs to be stable for at least a year. Conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism must be deemed stable by an eye care professional before considering LASIK.

Factors to Consider Beyond Age

Age is a significant factor, but it’s not the only one. Here are other crucial aspects to discuss with your ophthalmologist when considering LASIK under 20:

  • Vision Stability: As mentioned earlier, stable vision is paramount. Ideally, your prescription should remain unchanged for a good period of time before LASIK. This indicates your eyes have reached a point of maturity where the correction will be long-lasting.
  • Overall Eye Health: Underlying eye conditions like dry eye syndrome or certain corneal abnormalities can affect candidacy for LASIK. A thorough eye exam will assess your suitability for the procedure.
  • Lifestyle and Occupation: Active individuals in high-contact sports or physically demanding professions may need to consult their ophthalmologist on the best plan of action to minimize the risk of injury to the treated cornea.

Determining whether you are ready for LASIK requires careful consideration of multiple factors. These factors include stability of vision, specific lifestyle needs, and the potential of long-term benefits and risks. By consulting with experienced LASIK surgeons and taking into account the FDA guidelines, you can make an informed decision about the appropriate timing for this life-changing procedure.

Schedule a free LASIK consultation today to find out if you are an ideal candidate for LASIK. Our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.

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LASIK Surgery Age Limit: Breaking the Vision Barrier

Imagine bidding farewell to those bothersome glasses or itchy contacts and embracing the world with impeccable vision through LASIK, also known as Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis. The dream of visual freedom is within reach for millions. But one of the most commonly asked questions about LASIK eye surgery is, does my age exclude my eligibility for LASIK? Let’s dive in and debunk common LASIK myths and answer questions. 

Dispelling the Age Myth

There’s a common misconception – that there’s an official age limit for LASIK. Let’s set the record straight – there isn’t. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, individuals aged 18 and over are eligible for LASIK eye surgery.

Your eyes, unlike fine wine, may not necessarily improve with age. While they mature gracefully, LASIK surgeons recommend or prefer that their patients are between the ages of 18 and up. Below 18, your prescription may change often which is why LASIK surgeons prefer to wait until your prescription stabilizes.

What Qualifies A Person As A Good Candidate For LASIK Eye Surgery?

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
  • General health: Certain health conditions may require medications that can slow or prevent healing. LASIK candidates must be in good general health, and should not have certain health problems, including uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune or take any medication that may compromise the immune response.
  • Nursing/Pregnancy: Candidates should not be pregnant when undergoing the LASIK procedure. Hormones may affect the stability of your prescription, so pregnant women are not eligible to pursue LASIK surgery. Nursing patients can consult with a LASIK specialist to assess their individual circumstances and determine whether the procedure is a suitable option.

Can I Have LASIK Eye Surgery If I’m Over 40?

From the point when their vision stabilizes, most adults start saving more, traveling for work and leisure, and often feel annoyed or tired of using contacts and glasses. This is typically when many choose to undergo LASIK surgery.

Around the age of 40, however, eyesight begins to change and many people start needing reading glasses due to presbyopia. Although LASIK doesn’t correct presbyopia, some opt for Monovision, a type of laser eye surgery that corrects one eye for near vision and the other for distance.

At around 60, eye changes occur once more, increasing the risk of cataracts. While some people reach 70 or 80 without developing cataracts and maintain healthy eyes, they can still be good candidates for laser eye surgery even outside the usual age range for LASIK.

The Verdict

In conclusion, LASIK surgery knows no strict age limits. It’s about understanding your eyes, considering your lifestyle, and making informed choices at any age. Embrace the journey to better vision, and remember – age is just a number when it comes to breaking the vision barrier!

LASIK Eye Surgery: Your Vision Correction FAQs

What is LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis) is a revolutionary vision correction procedure that can free you from the hassles of glasses or contacts. During this bladeless laser eye surgery, an excimer laser gently reshapes the cornea with computer-precision to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Say goodbye to visual aids and hello to crystal-clear natural vision!

Am I a Good Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?

The first step in your LASIK journey is an in-depth screening and evaluation by our experienced eye surgeons. During this comprehensive exam, we’ll assess your specific vision needs and eye health criteria.
Generally, good LASIK candidates meet the following requirements:

-Age 18 or older (with a stable vision prescription for at least 1-2 years)
-No existing eye diseases or conditions like keratoconus or glaucoma
-Sufficient corneal thickness
-Reasonable refractive error limits for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism

However, exceptions can sometimes be made depending on individual circumstances. Our laser eye surgery experts will take the time to understand your unique vision goals and medical profile. We’ll then advise if you’re an ideal LASIK candidate or if another vision correction treatment may be better suited for outstanding results.
Don’t settle for blurred vision a day longer! Schedule your LASIK consultation now to discover if you’re a candidate for crystal-clear visual freedom.

Does LASIK Hurt?

The thought of laser eye surgery may seem daunting, but rest assured, LASIK is a painless and comfortable experience. Numbing eye drops are applied to completely anesthetize your eyes before the procedure begins. You may feel a mild pressure sensation around your eye during the laser corneal reshaping, but no pain. Many patients are pleasantly surprised by how smooth and painless their LASIK journey is.
To ensure maximum comfort, your surgeon may also prescribe a mild oral sedative to help you stay relaxed throughout the quick 10-15 minute LASIK procedure.

What is Recovery Like After LASIK Surgery?

After your life-changing LASIK procedure, you can expect some minor irritation or a gritty sensation in your eyes for a few hours as the numbing drops wear off. This mild discomfort is temporary and can be easily managed with over-the-counter eye drops or oral medication prescribed by your surgeon.
Most patients find that a short nap after their laser vision correction allows their eyes to rest and reset. When you awake, you’ll be amazed at your newfound visual clarity! Your surgeon will also provide medicated eye drops to aid in healing and prevent infection during your swift recovery period.

Does Insurance Cover LASIK?

While LASIK is typically considered elective, some insurance plans offer:

Reduced Rates: Many insurers negotiate special rates for members. Call your provider to see if they have discounts for LASIK surgery.
Coverage Exceptions: For specific professions like athletes or military personnel, perfect vision might be job-related, making LASIK a covered expense. Explore your plan details or contact your insurer directly for clarification.
Maximize Your Savings:

Provider Discounts: Many LASIK clinics offer special pricing for AAA members, veterans, or by profession. Ask your chosen provider about available discounts.

Ever feel glued to your phone screen until your eyes feel like sandpaper? You’re not alone. In our constantly connected world, we’re surrounded by digital devices – smartphones, laptops, tablets – all radiating blue light. The solution given: blue light glasses, but do they really work? We explored the effects on our well-being, and investigated the effectiveness of blue light glasses as a protective measure.

Understanding the Spectrum

Sunlight is a spectrum of visible and invisible light, with blue light occupying a significant portion. Blue light plays a vital role in regulating our circadian rhythm, the internal clock that dictates our sleep-wake cycle. Exposure to blue light during the day suppresses melatonin production, a hormone that signals sleepiness. This natural process keeps us alert and focused throughout the day.

However, excessive blue light exposure, particularly in the evening hours, can disrupt this delicate balance. The artificial blue light emitted from digital screens can trick our bodies into thinking it’s still daytime, delaying melatonin production and hindering sleep quality. This can manifest as difficulty falling asleep, restless nights, and daytime fatigue.

Light Prism Showing Blue Light

Blue Light Glasses: Fact or Fiction?

Blue light glasses have surged in popularity in recent years, touted as a solution to mitigate the negative effects of blue light exposure. These glasses incorporate special filters designed to block or absorb a portion of the blue light emitted from digital screens. The current body of research regarding the effectiveness of blue light glasses remains inconclusive. Some studies suggest potential benefits in reducing eye strain and improving sleep quality. However, other studies haven’t found statistically significant evidence to support these claims. Here’s a critical assessment of blue light glasses:

  • Potential Benefits: Blue light glasses may offer some alleviation of eye fatigue, particularly for individuals who spend extended hours in front of screens. Additionally, they might meekly improve sleep quality for those who use electronic devices before bedtime.
  • Limitations: The research on the efficacy of blue light glasses is ongoing and not entirely conclusive. While blue-light blocking glasses are advertised to improve vision and sleep, there is no significant evidence to support these claims.
  • Considerations: Blue light glasses are not a cure-all for digital eye strain or sleep problems. You should employ healthy habits, such as taking regular screen breaks and practicing good sleep hygiene.

Beyond Blue Light Glasses: Strategies for Digital Wellness

While the jury’s still out on the definitive role of blue light glasses, there are a multitude of well-established practices that can safeguard your eyes in the digital age:

  • The 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, avert your gaze from the screen for 20 seconds and focus on an object 20 feet away. This simple practice helps relax the focusing muscles in your eyes.
  • Adjust Screen Brightness and Color Temperature: Reduce screen brightness to a comfortable level and consider using warmer color temperature settings on your devices. These adjustments can lessen eye strain.
  • Embrace Natural Light: Whenever possible, prioritize natural light over artificial sources. Take breaks outdoors to expose your eyes to natural sunlight.
  • Blink Regularly: Blinking lubricates your eyes and helps maintain tear production. When engrossed in digital tasks, we tend to blink less frequently. Make a conscious effort to blink more often.
  • Maintain a Healthy Distance: Maintain a safe distance between your eyes and digital screens. The recommended distance varies depending on the screen size, but a general guideline is to keep the screen at arm’s length.
  • Regular Eye Examinations: Schedule regular eye checkups with your ophthalmologist. Early detection and management of any underlying eye conditions are crucial for maintaining optimal vision.

In conclusion, blue light is a natural part of our environment. While concerns exist regarding its potential impact on our eyes, the research remains inconclusive. The most effective strategy for digital eye care is prioritizing good screen habits, taking breaks, and consulting with your eye doctor. These crucial steps will help to maintain healthy vision in our digital world.

In your 40’s, vision correction becomes more pertinent as changes in eyesight become more pronounced. LASIK surgery emerges as a powerful solution for many seeking to restore their vision’s clarity. LASIK surgery has many advantages for those in their 40s, offering a plethora of benefits and positive impact on daily life.

Understanding LASIK and Its Benefits

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a well-established procedure designed to correct common vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea, LASIK improves the way light is focused onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision.

Candidacy for LASIK

Many believe LASIK is primarily for younger individuals. However, LASIK can be a valuable option for those in their 40’s. The key criteria for LASIK candidacy include stable vision, healthy eyes, and an understanding of the potential need for reading glasses due to presbyopia, a condition commonly developing in the mid-40s.

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How Vision Changes in Your 40’s

The Onset of Presbyopia

Presbyopia is an age-related condition affecting near vision. As we age, the eye’s natural lens becomes less flexible, making it difficult to focus on close objects. This change typically begins around the age of 43 and progresses gradually, leading to a reliance on reading glasses or bifocals.

Impact on LASIK Candidacy

For individuals in their 40s, the onset of presbyopia does not disqualify them from LASIK. Instead, it necessitates a tailored approach to vision correction. Some patients may benefit from Monovision LASIK, where one eye is corrected for distance vision and the other for near vision. Alternatively, other procedures like Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) may be more suitable.

Every patient’s eyes are unique, and LASIK surgery offers personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs. Pre-operative evaluations ensure that the surgery is customized to provide the best possible outcome. This personalized approach enhances the effectiveness of the procedure, ensuring that each patient receives optimal care and results.

LASIK for People in Their 40’s

Addressing Common Concerns

Is it too late for LASIK?

Absolutely not. Many individuals in their 40’s are excellent candidates for LASIK. The decision is based on comprehensive eye evaluations and discussions about vision goals.

Will I still need reading glasses?

Possibly. While LASIK can address distance vision issues, presbyopia may still require the use of reading glasses. Monovision LASIK or other procedures like RLE can help mitigate this need.

LASIK vs. Other Vision Correction Procedures

For those experiencing early stages of Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome (DLS) or significant presbyopia, alternatives to LASIK, such as RLE, might be recommended. These procedures can offer long-term solutions to maintain clear vision at all distances.

The Benefits of LASIK in Your 40’s

  • Enhanced Quality of Life: LASIK can offer newfound visual freedom, eliminating the dependency on corrective lenses.
  • Increased Convenience: LASIK surgery offers a permanent solution to refractive errors, meaning you no longer need to worry about carrying glasses or maintaining contact lenses. This convenience extends to all aspects of life, from engaging in physical activities to traveling.
  • Improved Self-Confidence: Boost your self-confidence! LASIK can lead to an improved self-image and a renewed sense of confidence.
  • Quick Recovery Time: Most patients experience significant improvements in their vision within 24 to 48 hours post-surgery. This quick recovery means minimal disruption to your daily life and busy schedules.

Embracing Clear Vision in Your 40’s

LASIK remains a viable and beneficial option for individuals in their 40’s. With advanced technology and personalized treatment plans, LASIK can provide the freedom from glasses and contacts that many seek. Whether through LASIK or other vision correction procedures, achieving clear vision is possible at any age.

Explore your options with a consultation at a LASIK Vision Institute center near you. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process and help you determine the best solution for your unique vision needs.

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About The Author

Dr. Craig F. Beyer is a board certified Ophthalmologist, fellowship trained in corneal and refractive surgery. Trusted by internationally recognized celebrities such as Kevin Costner and Tyler Hamilton. Since the onset of his pioneering work with laser vision correction, Dr. Beyer has personally performed more than 25,000 refractive procedures.

LASIK is a popular vision correction procedure, but like any medical treatment, it’s essential to be aware of potential LASIK risks before making an informed decision. While complications are relatively rare, it’s crucial to discuss any concerns with your LASIK eye care professional to determine if LASIK is the right choice for you.

Here are some factors to consider and discuss with your LASIK surgeon or optometrist:

Dry Eye: Many patients experience temporary dry eye symptoms after LASIK, which typically resolve within a few months. Your doctor may recommend using artificial tears or prescribe additional eye drops to manage this side effect.

Infection Risk: Proper post-operative care and adhering to your doctor’s instructions are essential to minimize the risk of infection. If you experience any unusual symptoms, promptly contact your eye care professional.

LASIK risks

Residual Refractive Error: In some cases, particularly with higher prescriptions, patients may experience residual refractive error, which can often be addressed with a follow-up enhancement procedure.

Corneal Stability: Certain pre-existing conditions, such as keratoconus, may increase the risk of complications. Your doctor will perform thorough evaluations to assess your candidacy for LASIK.

Regression: While uncommon, some patients may experience a gradual regression of their vision correction over time. Many providers offer enhancement procedures to address this possibility.

Visual Disturbances: Some individuals may experience night vision disturbances, such as glare or halos, particularly in the initial post-operative period. These symptoms often diminish over time but can persist for a small percentage of patients.

Flap Complications: In rare cases, complications can occur with the corneal flap created during LASIK. Proper post-operative care and avoiding eye trauma are crucial for healing.

Vision Fluctuations: While rare, there is a possibility of vision fluctuations or potential vision loss following LASIK. Selecting an experienced surgeon and adhering to post-operative instructions can help minimize this risk.

Epithelial Ingrowth: In some instances, corneal tissue may grow under the LASIK flap, which may require an additional procedure to remove the ingrown tissue if it affects vision.

Remember, many of these considerations are rare, and your LASIK eye care professional will thoroughly evaluate your individual risk factors and provide personalized guidance. Open communication and choosing an experienced, reputable LASIK surgeon are essential for achieving the best possible outcomes.

Ever since that awkward moment in grade school when you realized you couldn’t see the board clearly, glasses and contact lenses have likely been your constant companion. But lately, haven’t you noticed a sting in your wallet alongside that familiar feeling in your eyes? You’re not alone. Prices have been steadily on the rise, especially for contact lenses leaving many people wondering if there’s a better, more cost-effective way to achieve clear vision. Enter LASIK eye surgery – the ultimate investment that allows you to own great vision instead of “rent” it. Lets look into the rising cost of glasses and contacts and explore how LASIK surgery can offer a permanent solution.

The Cost Burden of Contacts

For years, contact lenses have been a reliable vision correction method. But let’s face it, they come with ongoing expenses that can add up quickly. What is causing contact lens prices to increase? 

  • Increased Material Costs: Advancements in lens technology often involve using specialized materials, which can drive up production expenses
  • Manufacturer Consolidation: The contact lens market is dominated by a few major players, which can lead to less competition and potentially higher prices
  • Eye Care Professional Fees: Regular eye exams and fittings are crucial for healthy contact lens wear, and these professional services also factor into the overall cost 

The Long-Term Expense of Contacts and Glasses

Let’s break down the ongoing costs associated with contacts and glasses: 

  • Annual Eye Exams: Noting the type of insurance you have an annual eye exam can range from $75 to a couple hundred dollars
  • Annual Replacement Costs: Depending on the type of lens you wear, you might need daily, bi-weekly, or monthly replacements. These costs can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand annually
  • Additional Contact Lens Expenses: Don’t forget the extras like cleaning solutions, disinfecting cases, and sometimes even additional prescription drops. These can add another layer of expense to your vision correction routine
  • Glasses Frames and Lenses: These costs are typically a few hundred dollars annually based on your style choices and insurance 

Cost of LASIK Surgery

The cost of LASIK surgery involves a one-time payment, generally ranging from $1,999-$2,999 per eye which may seem daunting initially. However, when compared to the long-term expenses of glasses and contacts, it often proves to be more economical. Once the cost is covered, LASIK offers savings over time by eliminating the need for continual purchases of glasses, contacts, and related accessories.

Based on these figures, the cost of LASIK vs contacts and glasses can offer increased substantial savings over the decades compared to the recurring costs of contacts and glasses.

Considerations for Financing

Many clinics offer flexible payment plans and financing options, allowing patients to spread the cost over manageable monthly installments. The LASIK Vision Institute provides guaranteed financing options make LASIK affordable to all individuals.

Quality of Life: Investing In You

Beyond financial considerations, it’s essential to consider the impact of vision correction on your quality of life and on what money can’t buy – time. LASIK can provide the freedom and convenience of clear vision without the constraints of contacts or glasses, enhancing your daily activities and overall well-being.

In conclusion, the cost of LASIK versus contacts and glasses in the long term is a thoughtful consideration that extends beyond upfront expenses. While LASIK may require a higher initial investment, it offers significant long-term savings and lifestyle benefits compared to the ongoing costs and inconveniences of contacts and glasses. Own your vision and start your journey today with our simple 3 step process.

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When you think of applying makeup, you may not consider how it can affect your eye health. While it’s fun to achieve the perfect makeup look, you also want to make good choices when it comes to eye makeup products and techniques. It is especially important to consider proper eye care when it comes to using eye makeup such as eyeliner.

Regardless of whether a person wears glasses, contact lenses or has had LASIK eye surgery, there are some things to keep in mind when using eye makeup in order to maximize your eye health.

Never Share Your Eye Makeup

Sharing eye makeup can be risky because it can spread bacteria and viruses that can cause infections in your eyes. This is especially true for products that come into direct contact with your eye, like mascara and eyeliner. Your eyes are delicate and prone to infection. Even if someone seems healthy, they could still carry bacteria or viruses that can be transmitted through makeup, especially if the makeup is old or not stored properly. It’s always best to avoid sharing eye makeup and to use your own applicators.

Get The Best Products For Your Eyes

Read the ingredients on the eye makeup before you buy. Some brands will be marked as safe for contact lenses or hypoallergenic. These can be good options, but it’s still a good idea to test the makeup on your hand to see if it causes any sensitivities. The skin around your eyes is thinner and more sensitive than the rest of your body, so you should avoid using anything that causes irritation.

Don’t Apply Eye Makeup To Your Waterline

The waterline is the inner edge of your eyelids—the flat area behind the root of your lashes. Using eyeliner on the waterline (referred to as “tightlining”) has become a common practice. While popular, this eye makeup technique is risky. You run the risk of blocking important glands like your tear ducts. This can lead to dry, uncomfortable, and red eyes. It also makes it easy to introduce bacteria into the eyes. When you tightline, some of the eyeliner will rub off onto the surface of your eye. If your eyeliner has any germs or bacteria, it will be transferred to your eye.

If you don’t want to avoid tightlining entirely, try to limit how often you incorporate this technique into your eye makeup routine, and be sure to use only clean products and applicators.

Keep Your Eye Makeup Tools Clean

The best way to support your eye health when it comes to eye makeup is to keep your tools, applicators, and eye makeup products clean. If you use a pencil eyeliner, sharpen it every time you use it. This way, you will have a clean surface. Don’t leave the caps off your eyeliners, as it exposes them to bacteria. If you use twist-up eyeliner, simply wipe the end or cut the tip off each time to expose a clean surface area. Any tools or applicators you use, such as brushes or liners, also need to be kept clean. Invest in a good cleaning solution and clean your tools often.

Get The Right Makeup Remover

You should never sleep in your eye makeup! When you go to remove your eye makeup at the end of the day, use the right makeup remover for your eye care routine. You can choose makeup remover cloths or a liquid remover but avoid oil-based eye makeup removers. These can block pores and glands in your eyes. Additionally, alcohol-based makeup removers (or those with an added fragrance) can be harsh on your eyes.

If you wear contact lenses, you also want to take extra care when removing your eye makeup. Contact users who like to wear a lot of eye makeup each day may want to switch it up and ask for disposable contacts to avoid product debris buildup on your lenses. When taking out contact lenses, it is important to wipe the lenses before putting them in the solution to ensure any makeup has been removed.

Those individuals who are tired of having to work around their glasses or contacts to apply their eye makeup may want to consider laser eye surgery, which can improve or correct a person’s eyesight. A LASIK surgery procedure consists of reshaping the cornea and changing the focusing power of the eye.

If you are interested in LASIK, talk to your eye doctor or schedule a consultation with a LASIK specialist.  Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK. However, the number of those who are eligible continues to increase each year. Those who were once denied may now be candidates for the procedure.

If you’d like to discuss your options and find out if you are a candidate for LASIK, schedule a free consultation at a location near you.

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Does insurance cover LASIK eye surgery? It’s one of the first questions that many people ask when considering a LASIK procedure – and planning for the cost is an important part of the process. LASIK is categorized as an elective procedure by insurance companies, which means that – outside of rare circumstances – the procedure is rarely covered by insurance. However, financing is available for laser eye surgery patients in the US, along with a number of other payment options for covering the cost of LASIK.

Insurance and Laser Eye Surgery

While it is rare for insurance companies to cover the cost of laser eye surgery, there are some exceptions, so it doesn’t hurt to inquire with your insurance company. Most LASIK patients, however, rely on other payment options to cover their surgery. The LASIK Vision Institute works with vision insurance providers to find savings for our patients, and there are multiple financing options available to help manage the cost of LASIK.

Financing for LASIK Eye Surgery

At The LASIK Vision Institute, we offer several options for financing laser eye surgery, and our team will be happy to help you find the option that best matches your needs. We offer a wide range of options to suit your budget, and can tailor a plan to suit your unique needs and our guaranteed financing allows you to choose from many customized plans. The process to find out whether you qualify usually takes just a few minutes.

Health Savings Accounts (HSA) for LASIK

A health savings account (HSA) is an account that allows you to set aside funds on a pre-tax basis to cover the cost of medical needs. Funds from an HSA can be used to pay for elective procedures, such as LASIK eye surgery, along with insurance costs like co-payments, co-insurance, and deductibles.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for LASIK

A flexible spending account (FSA) is another tax-friendly tool for covering medical costs, including the cost of LASIK. Enrolling in an FSA will require sponsorship from your employer, and there are yearly limits for how much you can deposit. In addition to laser eye surgery, funds from an FSA can be used to cover a range of common medical needs.

Getting Creative to Cover the Cost of LASIK

Looking to cover the cost of LASIK through less conventional means? Some LASIK patients use influxes of cash – such as from tax returns or employment bonuses – to pay for laser eye surgery. Using credit cards to pay for LASIK may also be an option, especially if the card offers a no interest incentive. Saving the old-fashioned way is always an option as well, and the gift of clearer vision may be the perfect excuse to put that “rainy day fund” to good use.

When you’re ready to learn more about LASIK, and the financing options available for laser eye surgery, the team at The LASIK Vision Institute is here to help. Arrange your free consultation at your local LASIK Vision Institute location by calling directly, or filling out a quick form on our site. During your free consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to get answers to all of your questions about the cost of LASIK and payment options.

Whether you’re at work, at play, or relaxing around the house, there’s never a bad time to put the focus on your vision health. From eating well to making sure to have regular exams with your eye care professional, good eye health starts with awareness of what to do, and what not to do.

Eye Care 101: Tips for Maintaining Eye Health and Avoiding Vision Problems

Good Eating Habits for Eye Health

Eating well is one of the hidden keys to maintaining good vision health, and there are plenty of tasty options that also deliver vital nutrients. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there quite a few common foods that may provide a boost to eye health:

  • Antioxidants – Foods rich in antioxidants, including many types of fruits and vegetables, are common in many “healthy eating” guides. These flavorful foods may help reduce the risk of vision problems related to aging.
  • Leafy Greens – High in important nutrients including lutein and zeaxanthin, leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach may help lower the risk of common vision problems like cataracts.
  • Omega 3 Fatty Acids – Enjoying a diet that includes popular fish like salmon and halibut is a good way to make sure you’re getting omega-3 fatty acids, which may help lower the risk of age-related vision problems.
  • Maintaining a Healthy Weight – Eating healthy and exercising are key to maintaining a healthy weight, which has many benefits for both vision health and overall health.

Protection from Sunlight and UV Rays

Spending time outdoors doesn’t have to be hard on the eyes, because proper eyewear can provide substantial protection from UV rays.

  • Simple Sun Safety – No matter how beautiful the scene, staring at the sun is dangerous to vision health. Even if you have a great pair of sunglasses, it’s never a good idea to stare at the sun.
  • 100 Percent UV Protection – You don’t have to stare at the sun directly for harmful UV rays to reach your eyes, so it’s also important to choose eyewear that offers 100 percent UV protection.

Eye Safety for Work and Play

Are you participating in an activity with the potential for eye injuries, whether at work or at play? Wearing the right protection and taking the time to stay sanitized are key in situations with a risk of eye injury.

  • Eye Safety for Sports – Looking to play your favorite sports, but worried about eye injuries? A pair of prescription sports goggles can provide ample eye protection.
  • Eye Safety at Work – If you work in a profession with the potential for eye injuries, it’s important to use the right protective goggles or eyewear for the task.
  • Eye Protection after LASIK – Your laser eye surgery specialist may provide protective eyewear after LASIK surgery, in order to help the healing process.
  • Clean Hands for Clean Eyes – Before you put in your contacts, always make sure to wash your hands thoroughly, which may help lower the risk of infection.

Don’t Smoke

Did you know that quitting smoking can have benefits for your eye health, in addition to the many potential benefits to your overall health? It’s never too late to make the decision to quit.

Regular Rest for Eyes

Spending too much time in front of screens can strain your eyes and lead to vision issues. Giving your eyes regular breaks is essential for maintaining eye health.

  • Avoiding Digital Eye Strain – Digital eye strain can come from many sources, including computer screens, TVs, and phones, so it’s important to be conscious of how much time you spend using these devices.
  • Following the 20/20/20 Rule – The 20/20/20 rule is one option that can help reduce digital eye strain. Every 20 minutes while using a screen, take a break to stare at an object 20 meters away, for 20 seconds.

Keeping Up with Eye Exams

In addition to the everyday steps you can take to promote eye health, it’s also a great idea to meet with your eye care professional at regular intervals for a comprehensive eye exam.

  • Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exams – A comprehensive dilated eye exam provides a very deep look into your vision health, making it an important vision health tool for many adults and senior citizens.
  • Eye Exams after LASIK – Keeping up with your scheduled eye exams after a laser eye surgery procedure is a key step in the healing process, and an opportunity to ask questions about LASIK recovery and vision health.

There are many simple steps that can be taken each day to promote vision health and help avoid common vision problems. Speaking with your eye care professional is a great way to learn more about avoiding vision problems and get feedback from a trusted source on your unique eye health needs.

LASIK Benefits

For many, the benefits of laser eye surgery stretch far beyond improvements in vision quality. The biggest benefit may be experiencing newfound lifestyle freedoms. Freedom might mean enjoying a scenic view without worrying about whether you brought your glasses, doing what you love for a living without worrying about vision problems, or even hopping behind the controls of a fighter jet. The true benefit of LASIK eye surgery is that you get to decide how to enjoy those lifestyle freedoms.

Lifestyle Freedom

No matter how you like to spend your free time, being able to see more clearly is a big LASIK benefit. Sometimes, life’s little moments are the most special, and clearer vision helps you soak in every moment. Lifestyle freedom can mean enjoying your favorite hobbies with newfound enthusiasm, or trying new things with the benefit of crisper vision. Less time worrying about vision problems means more time for enjoying what you love most, and you get to decide what lifestyle freedom means to you.

Imagine Seeing Clearly Without Glasses and Contacts

Speaking of those daily inconveniences, wouldn’t it be nice to worry less about wearing glasses or contacts? While every individual is unique, many who have laser eye surgery are able to see better with less dependence on glasses and contacts after the procedure. No longer needing glasses or contacts to see clearly isn’t a guarantee after laser eye surgery, but having to rely less on those devices is one of the most frequently mentioned LASIK benefits among people who have had the procedure.

Seeing clearer without glasses and contacts can make it easier to enjoy your favorite activities, and might even have some benefits for the bottom line, as the cost of purchasing and maintaining glasses or contacts is often significant.

On The Job Freedoms

In demanding on-the-job situations, glasses or contacts are the last thing you want to be on your mind. The military agrees, and that’s one of the reasons why the military often recommends LASIK over glasses or contacts. In a study of NAVY pilots published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Refractive and Cataract Surgery, 95.9 percent of pilots said LASIK improved their performance, and 99.6 would recommend the treatment to others. While fighter pilots are a fairly extreme example when it comes to eyesight, clearer vision can lead to occupational freedoms for many different careers.

The benefits of LASIK eye surgery extend far beyond the job, and every individual has their own way of enjoying crisper, clearer vision. If you have any questions about the benefits of laser eye surgery, your LASIK specialist is the perfect person to provide answers. Whether you want to see more clearly without glasses or enjoy lifestyle freedoms, now is the perfect time to learn more about laser eye surgery benefits. Get started with a Free Consultation today!

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