LASIK, or Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, surgery is a process where an ophthalmologist uses an ultraviolet laser to perform refractive eye surgery on a patient. This type of refractive eye surgery is highly desirable for a number of reasons. It is far more precise than standard eye surgery which allows better results. Most desirably, there is relatively no pain during or afterwards and sight improves within less than 24 hours from it. In fact, the procedure takes less than five minutes usually and you are often awake for the entire process.

LASIK eye surgery has often been characterized as highly expensive, especially when the procedure was first started. However, it currently averages around 2,000 for a standard procedure. This compares to around 1,500 for nonLASIK eye surgery. Considering how much faster and less invasive LASIK is, it could be argued that the extra 500 is an excellent value. Fewer complications, virtually no pain, and a higher chance of post-surgery success can be considered priceless.

Before making any decision about surgery options, you should definitely speak with an ophthalmologist about your specific condition and the range of treatment options. Surgery may not be necessary or optimal, but if refractive eye surgery is needed you should not be afraid of LASIK.