Scroll

LASIK

LASIK is the most well-known laser vision correction procedure, benefitting nearly a million patients per year. If you aren’t a candidate for LASIK, our world-class surgeons can recommend another laser vision procedure to better fit your vision and lifestyle goals.

On This Page

Schedule a Complimentary Consultation

Ready to find out if LASIK is right for you? Schedule a complimentary consultation with Vance Thompson Vision today!

Schedule Now

Why Choose LASIK?

LASIK is a laser procedure that corrects refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism (the inability to focus clearly at any distance because of a misshapen cornea).

LASIK was approved by the FDA in 1999 and since then has been refined into the safe, technology-driven procedure it is today. In fact, Vance Thompson Vision participated in the FDA-monitored trial that laid the groundwork for LASIK technology.

Some patients aren’t candidates for LASIK, but because Vance Thompson Vision is a comprehensive refractive center, we offer other laser procedures such as PRK that can accomplish results similar to LASIK.

Get started with a free consultation.

LASIK Checklist

Not sure if LASIK is right for you?

Take our quick LASIK quiz to learn which procedure is right for you and your vision.

Vision Correction Quiz

LASIK Procedure

In general, laser vision correction uses a precise computer-controlled laser to gently reshape the cornea so light rays focus more directly on the retina and ultimately reduce your dependence on glasses. The in-office procedure lasts only a few minutes per eye and most patients can return to work the next day.

Specifically for LASIK, a thin protective flap is made in the cornea with a femtosecond laser. Your surgeon folds the flap back and then gently reshapes the exposed cornea with an Excimer laser. The flap is laid back in place, where it will heal, allowing you to see more clearly.

Procedure Time 20 minutes
Recovery 24 hours
Initial Follow-up 1 day

PRK Procedure

PRK, or Photorefractive Keratectomy, differs from LASIK in that it does not create a flap. Instead, a cold-pulsing Excimer laser is applied directly to the cornea. Patients with thin corneas or with low to moderate vision corrections are good candidates for PRK.

PRK vs LASIK is a decision your ophthalmologist will help you make. After this surgery, a bandage contact lens will be placed on your eyes for improved comfort. Because there isn’t a protective flap created as it is during LASIK, recovery takes three to five days. During that period, you may experience mild discomfort and sensitivity that our care team will help you manage.

Procedure Time 20 minutes
Recovery 3-5 days
Initial Follow-up 3 days

Not a candidate for laser vision correction?

Call us to schedule your consultation anyway. Many times our experts can still offer relevant options that will improve your vision and help you meet your lifestyle and visual goals.

Learn About More Options

“I’m not one to look back and say ‘I should have done that sooner’, but I may about this. Playing softball and basketball without glasses is something else. You get used to not being able to see, and when you suddenly can, it’s pretty awesome!”

Matt Traen, LASIK patient

Why Vance Thompson Vision?

The optometrists and ophthalmologists at Vance Thompson Vision create, protect, and maintain clear vision. We partner with you on your vision journey, educate you about your unique eye structure and condition, and offer advanced diagnostic, surgical, and optimization technologies.

Comprehensive Refractive Center

Did you know laser vision correction is more than just LASIK? As a comprehensive refractive center, Vance Thompson Vision has the expertise, tools, and facility required to correct an array of vision problems. Because we do, even when you aren’t a candidate for LASIK, we can explore other effective options such as PRK to give you clear vision. If those aren’t a fit, we also offer ICLs and RLE. Thanks to our extensive technology, we also have refractive options for cataract patients that may give them less dependence on corrective eyewear after their surgery.

Same Day Surgery

Most often referred to as our See and Do LASIK Program, we offer an expedited process in which patients are seen for their consultation in the morning and have their surgery in the afternoon. This program has steadily grown in popularity, particularly for our patients who travel from out of town.

Partnering With Your Local Optometrist

Following surgery, patients will be seen for a series of follow-up appointments to ensure healing is on track and your vision is improving as expected. These visits can be done at Vance Thompson Vision or at your local optometrist’s office. Whichever you choose, our team will schedule your aftercare appointments with your chosen provider on your behalf.

See Their Stories

Darren & Monica’s PRK Story

Amber’s LASIK Story

Eli’s LASIK Story

Emily’s LASIK Story

Cory’s LASIK Story

Kristi's LASIK Story

Dr. Wallin’s LASIK Story

Dr. Schweitzer’s LASIK Story

Dr. Schmit’s LASIK Story

Vision Correction Patient Ratings & Reviews

5.0/5

June 6, 2024

I got PRK vision correction surgery in April, and I'm very pleased with my results today. The entire staff at Vance Thompson Vision is extremely knowledgeable and welcoming!

May 14, 2024

Everyone at Vance Thompson is so nice and I'm very glad I had Dr.Kramer for my Lasik procedure. That evening after my lasik, my vision was the clearest I've ever had in my life even with corrective lenses. It's truly amazing and life changing. I only wish I had done it sooner! I now have better than 20/20 vision. I'm super happy with my results!

March 5, 2024

Hands down the best customer experience I have ever received in a Healthcare facility! From the moment you step through the doors you know you are surrounded by the best of the best! The talent of the Provider Dr Berdhal and all his team is top of the line. My procedure outcome is beyond amazing and I would recommend the Lasik procedure and Dr Berdhal and team to everyone!

February 27, 2024

I can't believe I haven't written a review sooner. I had my LASIK done with the team last November and it's been one of the best choices of my life. Everyone was very patient with me despite my many questions, and made sure I was comfortable before, during, and after my procedure. I really appreciate their care an professionalism. Thank you guys!

February 3, 2024

I had the best experience with Vance Thompson Vision! I had lasik in September, and I am so glad I did! It has changed my life in the best way. The team at VTV made me feel comfortable and listened to, and they were very patient with all of my questions! I will definitely be recommending them!

December 28, 2023

I had an incredible experience getting LASIK here. Everyone was so professional, informative, calming and kind. The procedure was not painful or hard. I was thrilled that the night of I could see so well. I’m wishing I would’ve done this years ago. I’d recommend it to anyone considering!

November 16, 2023

The experience at Vance Thompson was amazing! Their team does such a great job from bedside manner to making sure you don’t get nervous while under surgery! I believe everyone that should consider doing Lasik! One of the best choices to make for yourself!!

September 1, 2023

I am very happy with my LASIK experience at Vance Thompson Vision. The staff are friendly and prompt. I felt like I was in good hands when it came to my vision and that was comforting. They really care and want the best for you as their patient. I would not trust anyone else!

May 9, 2023

They have a spectacular team that is very informative of what is going on during the procedure along with making sure you are very comfortable. Highly recommend them for any lasik procedure! Thank you!

April 21, 2023

The staff are very welcoming and truly care for their patients. They walking you through every step and make sure to answer all your questions. Wonderful place to get Lasik.

April 4, 2023

It has been 5 months since I had ICL surgery on both of my eyes and I can say I am 100% satisfied with my vision thanks to Vance Thompson and his team. The whole process was smooth from start to finish and after completing my last surgery I asked the nurse if I could thank Vance personally and he took the time to come and visit with me and we snapped a picture!

July 29, 2021

WOW, WOW, WOW! I have wanted Lasik for such a long time and I am BEYOND happy I went to Vance Thompson for my surgery. It was quick and painless and the nurses and staff did SUCH a good job of making me feel comfortable. They checked my eyes 3 times before surgery, I met the doctor before surgery, I was comforted during the procedure and everything was explained to me so I felt comfortable on what to expect. Vance Thompson is worth every single penny and I would recommend this facility to absolutely anyone!

View Previous
View More

What To Expect

The specialists at Vance Thompson Vision will help determine your options for laser vision correction with an extremely thorough, pre-surgery consultation that uses advanced diagnostics and includes dilation. These consultations are complimentary.

On the day of your procedure, your eyes will be gently numbed with drops. An eyelid support will be used to help avoid blinking. Medication is also offered to help calm your nerves.

Laser vision correction procedures are among the most studied and time-tested surgeries for reducing or even eliminating your need for corrective lenses. For over 30 years, LASIK has been helping people see more clearly, freeing them from the frustrations that may come from glasses or contacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does LASIK cost in 2024?

LASIK at Vance Thompson Vision is $3,050 per eye. This price includes everything required for the procedure: surgeon fee, facility fee, eye drops, aftercare appointments, and fine tunes, if needed, for up to two years. Some aftercare fees may vary depending on where follow-up appointments take place. If you are researching and comparing costs, please be mindful that not all providers include the total fee package when publishing their LASIK prices.

Is LASIK covered by insurance?

Most insurance companies consider LASIK and other refractive surgeries to be elective procedures, and because they are, they usually aren’t covered under basic health or vision plans. Since we believe finances shouldn't stand in the way of clearer vision, Vance Thompson Vision has payment options to assist in making corrective surgery as affordable as possible.

Can you get LASIK if you have astigmatism?

Yes, you can. Patients with mild to moderate astigmatism are usually candidates for LASIK. A consultation is required to determine if LASIK is the best refractive procedure for your specific vision, and if it isn’t, it’s likely that you’ll qualify for another procedure.

Does LASIK fix astigmatism?

Yes. For clear vision, it’s most ideal for your cornea to be smooth and rounded. Those with astigmatism have eyes shaped more like an egg or a football, and because of that, light that enters their eye doesn’t refract onto the retina in an optimal place. Because LASIK – and PRK – reshape the cornea into an ideal shape, it does correct astigmatism.

How long does LASIK last on average?

Generally the results of LASIK are permanent, but occasionally nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism can return due to changes in the lens of the eye. In these cases, your primary eye care doctor will refer you back to the specialists at Vance Thompson Vision, where they can determine the best course of action.

What is recovery from LASIK like?

After the topical anesthesia wears off, most patients experience burning, tearing, and light sensitivity for 2-4 hours. Generally, patients can see immediately after surgery, and their vision improves with every passing hour. Avoiding swimming, eye makeup, and eye rubbing is important. Many patients find it helpful to use preservative-free artificial tears to ease discomfort and aid healing.

How do I find out if I am a candidate for LASIK?

You will have a comprehensive exam with one of our Vance Thompson Vision doctors to see if you qualify.

Do I really need to come out of my contact lenses for a few days (or up to two weeks) before surgery? I don’t have any glasses.

Yes. Contact lenses can affect some of the measurements needed to accurately perform refractive surgery. Without accurate measurements, we risk falling short of best results.

Will I be awake during the procedure?

Yes. We offer a mild sedative to relax you for the procedure; however, this is optional.

Still have questions?

Questions about LASIK or PRK? Call us! Our representatives can answer many common questions, and when they can’t, they’ll put you in touch with someone who can. If you’re ready, they can also schedule your free consultation.

Contact Us