Our medical team, Dr. Lahr and Dr. Neighbors talk with us about LASIK and other forms of refractive surgery. What is LASIK? Is it safe, are there downsides, and how does EyeMed help members with the cost of LASIK?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a quick surgical procedure, typically taking about 15 minutes per eye, to correct vision problems such as myopia and astigmatism. Anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye. A thin flap is created in the cornea and lifted, allowing the cornea to be precisely reshaped so that light focuses correctly on the retina. The flap is then repositioned without the need for stitches. Most patients experience improved vision within 24 hours.
Is LASIK safe?
LASIK is generally a safe and effective procedure for vision correction, with a high success rate and quick recovery. However, there are some risks, including dry eyes, especially if the eyes were already marginally dry before LASIK. While this condition is usually temporary, it can sometimes become chronic and may require treatment with artificial tears or other methods. Other possible issues include night vision problems and under- or overcorrection of vision.
Who is a good candidate for LASIK?
LASIK is not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates are over 18 years old with a stable prescription for at least one year, and have healthy eyes with sufficient corneal thickness. LASIK is not recommended for individuals with severe refractive errors, certain medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases or diabetes, those who are pregnant, or those with presbyopia, since LASIK cannot correct age-related near-vision loss.
Do EyeMed benefits cover LASIK?1
EyeMed recognizes the importance of vision correction options. Although LASIK is usually not covered under standard vision benefit plans, EyeMed partners with providers to offer discounts and financing options to make the procedure more affordable. Members can receive a 15% discount on standard LASIK prices or a 5% discount on promotional LASIK prices at participating providers. EyeMed members can also save up to $1,000 on LASIK procedures at select centers such as LasikPlus, TLC Laser Eye Center, and The LASIK Vision Institute.
LASIK is also eligible under most health savings and flexible spending benefits accounts, which means you can apply pre-tax dollars towards your LASIK procedure.
What about other surgeries for vision correction?2
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): A minimally invasive laser surgery that corrects myopia and astigmatism, offering a quicker recovery and a lower risk of dry eye compared to LASIK.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): Procedure reshapes the cornea by removing its outer layer, making it suitable for patients with thinner corneas. However, it has a longer recovery period than LASIK.
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lenses): Surgery implants a synthetic lens between the iris and the natural lens. It is a reversible procedure, ideal for patients with high prescriptions or thin corneas, and provides excellent optics and night vision.
RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange): Replaces the natural lens with an artificial one, similar to cataract surgery but performed before the crystalline lens becomes cloudy. Commonly used for severe refractive errors and presbyopia.
To learn more, speak with your EyeMed representative or visit eyed.com
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1 Check with your EyeMed rep to see if LASIK is insured through your plan
2 LasikPlus®, TLC LaserEye Centers and The LASIK Vision Institute do not perform all of the procedures listed. Members should call 1.800.988.4221 to confirm.
Fully insured clients are underwritten by: Fidelity Security Life Insurance Company®, Kansas City, MO 64111 and Fidelity Security Life Insurance Company® of New York.
