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You’ve decided to take the first step towards clear vision and are considering LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis). Congratulations, great things await you! Making the decision of owning your vision instead of renting it is the best investment you’ll ever make. It’s likely you have questions like many patients do: Will LASIK work for me? How much does LASIK eye surgery cost? Are there any risks? Don’t worry. You are about to see what you’ve been missing.
“My experience with Waite Vision was absolutely amazing! I am now seeing more clearly than I was with glasses or contacts.”
Hannah W.
Google Reviews
Top reasons to choose Waite Vision for LASIK.
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You’ll enjoy the benefits of your LASIK procedure for years to come.
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Your LASIK investment is only $2850 per eye. A small price for owning your perfect vision.
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We offer 24-months interest-free financing.
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You will consult directly with our doctors to discuss your best vision plan, and meet Dr. Waite, a highly skilled refractive surgeon.
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When you arrive, you become the center of attention. We are focused on you.
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You receive a comprehensive personalized diagnostic eye exam and a vision plan tailored specifically for you.
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If you are not a LASIK candidate, no worries; we offer other vision correction procedures.
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Your LASIK procedure is performed with the most advanced technology available to correct vision.
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Are you ready to take the next step in your vision journey?
Is all LASIK the same? No.
A lot has changed since LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) was FDA approved more than 20 years ago. Consider, for instance, your smartphone. It has 100,000 times the processing speed of the computer that landed a man on the moon 50 years ago. The progress of laser vision correction is no different. We use the most advanced excimer laser and technology, which are so precise they can write letters on a strand of human hair. However, all of this advanced LASIK technology is of no use unless there is a highly-skilled, experienced LASIK surgeon like Dr. Waite programming and guiding the technology.
“LASIK technology is approved by NASA, the US Air Force, Navy, Army, & the Marine Corps for their members.”
Are you nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism?
ALL ABOUT YOU
How is Waite Vision different?
You are our top priority. You are not treated like a number, and you won’t find an assembly-line-like LASIK experience here. We focus specifically on your needs and provide great customer service to all of our patients through the entire process. If you are looking for a team that truly takes their time to listen and understand your vision needs, this is the place. Don’t take our word for it. Read what our patients have to say…
It starts with a LASIK consultation.
The cost of a consultation is $150, because we do more than a quick “LASIK screening.” Your initial consultation includes a full diagnostic workup using seven different tests and the latest technology to evaluate your eye health. After having your eyes examined, you’ll meet Dr. Waite, your surgeon, and discuss the perfect vision correction surgery tailored specifically for you along with other valuable information regarding the health of your eyes. Your $150 investment then goes towards your laser vision correction procedure.
How much does LASIK Eye Surgery cost in the Salt Lake City area?
Your LASIK investment is $2850 per eye, or $5700 for both eyes, regardless of whether or not you have a high prescription, astigmatism, or need a topography guided treatment. We are the only Utah practice to publish our real LASIK price. Invest in yourself and own your vision with LASIK instead of renting it from the contact lens and eye glass industry.
Tired of your contacts and glasses? See what they are really costing you.
The average person spends $25,000+ on glasses, contact lenses, solution, eye exams, etc. due to refractive errors. It’s like renting your vision from the glasses and contacts lens industry. Worst of all, these will NEVER correct your vision like refractive procedures will. Use our affordability calculator and see how much you can save with LASIK.
THINKING OF YOU
The elegant simplicity of Waite Vision.
Waite Vision is a work of art — featuring crisp, clean lines and abundant natural lighting with a stunning, third-floor view of the Wasatch Mountains. The moment you enter our reception area, you’ll experience the difference of Waite Vision.
SEE THE SHORT FILM
What would happen if you couldn’t get your contacts or glasses tomorrow?
LASIK questions? We have the answers.
Is LASIK safe?
Yes. It is one of the safest and most studied procedures performed on the human body with the highest satisfaction rate of any elective procedure. In fact, LASIK is safer than wearing contact lenses. Wearing contact lenses increases your risk for infection and resulting vision loss.
Does LASIK wear off?
No. Around age 47, most people begin to have difficulty seeing up close (presbyopia). This occurs whether they’ve had LASIK or not. If you are close to this age, we’ll take that into consideration in determining your best vision correction options.
Does LASIK hurt?
No. LASIK patients will not feel any discomfort during your procedure. Basically, all you’ll experience is one big light show.
How long does LASIK take?
The actual procedure usually takes less than 10 minutes per eye. Our lasers take seconds to reshape the cornea and correct your vision, depending on your prescription and the amount of correction needed.
What if I blink or move during LASIK?
Our lasers are designed to limit and also account for movements. Even if you were to cough or sneeze, the LASIK lasers will pause and resume exactly where it left off. There is no need to be concerned.
Who is a candidate for LASIK?
LASIK is an excellent procedure for you if you have reached ocular maturity (usually around age 18), have a healthy cornea, and have nearsightedness, farsightedness, presbyopia, or astigmatism.
Is there an alternative to LASIK?
If you are not an ideal candidate for LASIK, you can still achieve perfect vision! LASIK is just one of many procedures offered at Waite Vision. We offer SMILE, PRK, ICLs, Refractive Lens Exchange, and Refractive Cataract procedures.
When can I return to work after LASIK?
Most of our LASIK patients are back to work the very next day. The vision itself is usually 20/20 or better within a few minutes of the procedure and continues to clear and improve even more over the next week.
Does insurance cover LASIK?
No. As part of your LASIK consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss LASIK costs, benefits, and financing options with one of our patient coordinators.
Can I Use My HSA or FSA for LASIK?
Yes. LASIK is a Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account procedure. If your company offers a health or flexible spending account, you can use it to pay for LASIK or other types of laser eye surgeries.
Is LASIK more affordable than contacts?
Yes. Most people will spend far more on contact lenses over the years and decades than the one time cost for LASIK. It is so much better and more economical to correct your vision than to rely on glasses and contacts.
Why should I get LASIK?
If you want straight teeth, you get braces. If you want perfect vision, get vision correction. LASIK and other vision correction methods are becoming the standard for vision care. Glasses and contacts should be used during childhood while developing ocular maturity, but only rarely after that. In the future, glasses will be obsolete. Just watch Star Trek; no one is wearing glasses.
Can I wear eye makeup after LASIK?
The majority of experienced LASIK surgeons advise against wearing makeup for at least one week following LASIK. There is no ideal period to resume wearing makeup, but a week should be plenty to allow your eyes to recover and be less prone to bacterial infections and other issues.
Where do Waite Vision LASIK patients come from?
Waite Vision sees LASIK patients from Lehi, Salt Lake City, and across the state of Utah. As an expert in vision correction, Dr. Waite even has patients fly in across the U.S. for vision correction procedures.
More FAQs About LASIK
LASIK GENERAL & CANDIDACY QUESTIONS
How can LASIK improve my quality of life?
By improving your visual acuity, lowering or eliminating the need for corrective lenses, and giving you more freedom in your everyday activities, LASIK can considerably enhance your quality of life.
What is the goal of LASIK eye surgery?
The primary goal of LASIK is to correct vision impairments such as far-sightedness and near-sightedness, thus improving the patients’ visual perception and reducing reliance on corrective lenses.
Why do some people refer to LASIK as laser eye surgery?
LASIK is frequently referred to as “laser eye surgery” because it uses a precision excimer laser to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors, enhancing the patient’s visual acuity.
Is LASIK refractive surgery?
Refractive surgery is a type of eye surgery that corrects common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia. LASIK is a form of refractive surgery that reshapes the cornea, improving how the eye focuses light onto the retina.
I have blurred vision. Can LASIK help?
LASIK can correct blurred vision caused by refractive errors. An eye exam can determine if LASIK is the best solution to correct your blurred vision.
Are there alternative procedures for vision correction besides LASIK?
Yes, there are alternative procedures for vision correction, such as EVO-ICL, PRK (photorefractive keratectomy), SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) and Refractive Lens Exchange (lens replacement). Depending on a person’s testing and circumstances, usually one procedure will be most appropriate.
Why is a pre-op appointment before LASIK surgery important?
The pre-operative appointment allows your LASIK surgeon to evaluate your eyes’ health, determine your eligibility for the procedure, and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
What does sensitivity and specificity mean in the context of a LASIK consultation?
Sensitivity refers to the ability of the LASIK procedure to correctly identify those who will benefit from the surgery. Specificity refers to the procedure’s ability to correctly exclude those who wouldn’t benefit. High sensitivity and specificity ensure the right candidates undergo LASIK.
How does the FDA oversee LASIK surgery?
The FDA controls the LASIK lasers used in the United States, making sure they adhere to safety and efficacy guidelines. The FDA also provides information for potential LASIK patients.
Has LASIK been involved in clinical trials?
Yes, the safety and effectiveness of LASIK have been thoroughly investigated in clinical research. Based on the outcomes of these trials, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved it.
When considering LASIK, why is it crucial to conduct research?
You are able to better understand the LASIK procedure by doing research on its advantages, risks, and potential results. To make sure you get the finest care, you must thoroughly investigate the training, experience and certifications of your LASIK surgeon.
Does LASIK hurt?
Patients typically receive a sedative and anesthetic eye drops before the procedure, which significantly minimizes any discomfort. Some may feel mild pressure during the suction phase, but there really is no pain.
Is LASIK an outpatient surgery?
Yes, LASIK is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. The procedure typically takes about 20 minutes for both eyes, and patients usually spend about an hour to an hour and a half at the clinic on the day of the procedure, including pre-op and post-op care.
Is there an age limit for LASIK surgery?
While there’s no strict age limit, your eye prescription should be stable for at least a year before the surgery. Typically, LASIK is recommended for individuals who are at least 18 years old.
Does LASIK help my contrast sensitivity?
The capacity to distinguish items against a similar background is known as contrast sensitivity. For better overall vision, LASIK seeks to enhance both contrast sensitivity and visual acuity.
Can LASIK correct astigmatism?
Yes, LASIK is quite effective at correcting astigmatism. It accomplishes this by altering the cornea’s curvature in order to lessen or completely remove the refractive error that is the cause of the astigmatism. LASIK is more accurate than contact lenses in correcting astigmatism.
Can LASIK correct presbyopia?
LASIK can correct distance vision and can allow for excellent near focus in the non-dominant eye to correct presbyopia (age-related difficulty in reading or seeing close-up). This is call laser blended vision and is an excellent method to correct presbyopia. There are also other good surgical options available to treat presbyopia.
Can LASIK surgery help me get rid of my reading glasses?
Yes, a specialized type of LASIK known as blended vision LASIK can help correct presbyopia, the age-related condition causing difficulty in near vision or reading, thereby reducing your dependence on reading glasses.
How can LASIK improve my night vision?
By removing refractive errors that result in glare, halos, or difficulties seeing in dim light, LASIK can enhance night vision. It improves the eye’s capacity to accurately focus light, which leads to an increase in nighttime visual acuity.
Can LASIK help correct diplopia or double vision?
Diplopia can result from various conditions. LASIK may help if the double vision is due to refractive errors. For a precise diagnosis and treatment strategy, it is best to speak with your ophthalmologist.
Can LASIK surgery help treat glaucoma?
LASIK is not intended to treat glaucoma itself, but it is safe to correct refractive errors in patients who have glaucoma to achieve better vision.
Can LASIK surgery correct keratoconus?
No. LASIK is contra-indicated for patients with keratoconus. This is because LASIK will weaken the cornea. Keratoconus is inherent weakness of the cornea which causes the cornea to thin and result in an uneven shape. Corneal cross-linking is recommended to treat keratoconus and make the cornea stronger. After crosslinking, a patient may be a good candidate for other vision correction procedures such as PRK or EVO ICLs.
What are signs and symptoms that LASIK may not be right for me?
LASIK might not be the ideal choice for you if you have severe dry eye syndrome, corneal diseases such as keratoconus, certain autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, unstable vision, or are pregnant.
Can I undergo LASIK surgery if I have dry eye syndrome?
For some people with severe dry eye syndrome LASIK surgery could potentially aggravate symptoms. However, this can be evaluated during your eye exam. Often with proper treatment, dry eyes can be fully controlled before and after LASIK.
Can I undergo LASIK if I’m breastfeeding?
You should wait to have LASIK until stabilization of your hormones after pregnancy. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect your prescription. If the prescription is stable, then you can discuss proceeding with vision correction directly with your surgeon.
I have itchy eyes, can I still undergo LASIK surgery?
Before having LASIK, it is important to treat any underlying conditions that may be causing the itchy eyes, such as allergies or dry eye syndrome. Your eye doctor will be able to best advise you on treating itchy eyes.
What is uveitis, and can it affect my LASIK surgery outcome?
Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. Your ophthalmologist might advise against undergoing LASIK until the condition has been properly addressed because it may affect general eye health.
Can a swollen eyelid affect LASIK surgery?
A swollen eyelid can potentially complicate LASIK surgery. In order to prevent eye inflammation or infection during the surgery, it’s important to take care of a swollen eyelid before the procedure.
Is there a risk of retinal detachment with LASIK?
No. The risk of retinal detachment is not increased by LASIK. However, it’s important to talk to your eye doctor about this if you’re already at risk due a history of retinal detachment.
Can LASIK improve visual impairment?
Yes, LASIK can correct refractive errors that cause visual impairment, such as myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), and astigmatism.
What does an eyeglass prescription have to do with LASIK?
Your LASIK surgeon uses the information from your eyeglass prescription to determine the type and severity of your refractive error and to customize the laser procedure.
PROCEDURE QUESTIONS
How does the surgeon perform LASIK surgery?
The surgeon uses a femtosecond laser to create a flap in the cornea (flap creation), then reshapes the underlying tissue using an excimer laser in a process called keratomileusis (in situ).
What if I blink or move during the LASIK procedure?
Modern LASIK machines have eye-tracking technology, and a gentle lid speculum will hold your eyelids during the procedure so you don’t have to worry about blinking. If you move, the laser automatically adjusts or stops.
What type of anesthesia is used during LASIK surgery?
LASIK is performed under local anesthesia using proparacaine eye drops. These numbing drops make the procedure virtually painless. A mild sedative or analgesic may also be given to help you relax.
What is the role of topography in LASIK surgery?
Corneal topography is used to create a detailed map of the cornea’s curvature and shape. This information helps the surgeon plan and perform the LASIK procedure more accurately
How does eye tracking technology aid in LASIK surgery?
Eye tracking technology is used during LASIK to precisely track the eye’s movement, ensuring the laser targets the correct areas of the cornea, even if the eye moves slightly during the procedure.
What is iris registration in LASIK surgery?
When performing LASIK, iris registration technology is used to take and use iris images for precise alignment, which improves outcomes, especially for patients with astigmatism.
What is a microkeratome in the context of LASIK?
A microkeratome is a precision surgical instrument used in earlier LASIK procedures to create the corneal flap. Today, most surgeons prefer using a femtosecond laser for this step due to increased precision and safety.
What do accuracy and precision mean in LASIK surgery?
Accuracy in LASIK refers to the ability of the laser to correct vision as close as possible to the desired outcome. Precision refers to the laser’s ability to consistently produce the same results in tissue removal. Both are critical for optimal visual outcomes.
Are eye diseases a contraindication for LASIK?
Some eye diseases like uncontrolled glaucoma, cataracts, or certain retinal and corneal diseases can make a patient unsuitable for LASIK. A comprehensive eye exam can determine your candidacy.
What risks are associated with LASIK?
As with any medical procedure, LASIK has potential risks. These include infection, inflammation, keratitis, or issues like photophobia and glare. However, these are relatively rare, and LASIK is generally considered safe and effective. It is important to select an experienced ophthalmologist like Dr. Waite to perform your surgery to minimize risks.
How do I prepare for LASIK surgery?
Getting ready for LASIK surgery requires a number of steps, such as scheduling a complete eye exam, discontinuing the use of contact lenses before the examination and procedure, and arranging for transportation home afterward.
Does LASIK affect the collagen in the cornea?
Yes, LASIK reshapes the cornea’s collagen to correct vision. This process involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, reshaping the underlying collagen with a laser, then repositioning the flap.
What role does the corneal flap play in LASIK surgery?
In LASIK, a tiny flap is made on the surface of the cornea, which is then lifted to reveal the corneal tissue beneath. A laser is used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue, and the flap is repositioned to promote rapid healing.
What size is the corneal flap created during LASIK?
The corneal flap’s diameter normally ranges from 8.1 to 9.2 millimeters, depending on the anatomy of your eye and the surgeon’s evaluation.
Does the surgeon remove any tissue during LASIK?
Yes, during LASIK, a laser is used to remove a precise amount of corneal tissue, helping to reshape the cornea and correct the patient’s vision.
What is the relationship between the corneal contour line and LASIK?
The contour line of the cornea changes during LASIK. This is because the procedure involves removing tissue to flatten (in nearsightedness) or steepen (in farsightedness) the cornea, altering its contour for better focus.
Does LASIK leave a scar on the cornea?
LASIK typically does not leave a visible scar. The corneal flap created during the procedure heals naturally and is generally only noticeable afterwards with a high power microscope.
Can LASIK correct issues with the human eye’s lens?
LASIK primarily corrects vision by reshaping the cornea. However, if the vision issue is due to a problem with the lens of the eye, such as a cataract, a different procedure may be recommended.
Are the blood vessels affected in LASIK surgery?
Because there are no blood vessels in the cornea where LASIK is performed, healing is quick and the potential for postoperative scar tissue formation is reduced.
What is the role of the pupil in LASIK surgery?
The pupil is the opening that allows light to enter the eye. In LASIK, pupil size and location is considered when planning the surgery. Modern treatment zones are larger and will reduce side effects like glare and halos.
AFTER LASIK QUESTIONS
What is the recovery time after LASIK surgery?
Although recovery times vary, many patients report better vision within 24 hours. For at least a week, you should stay out of hot tubs and avoid playing contact sports.
Can I wear eye makeup immediately after LASIK surgery?
It’s recommended to avoid eye makeup for at least a week post-surgery to reduce the risk of infection. Follow the detailed post-operative care instructions given to you by your LASIK surgeon.
Can I go back to work the day after my LASIK surgery?
Many patients return to work the next day if they feel comfortable. Avoid physically demanding activities for one week after your procedure.
Why is it important to use eye drops after LASIK?
Using antibiotic and steroid eye drops post-LASIK helps prevent infection and inflammation and promotes healing. It’s important to closely follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions.
Does ultraviolet (UV) exposure cause any additional risks after a LASIK procedure?
After LASIK, your eyes can be temporarily more sensitive to light, including UV radiation. When you’re outside, it’s important to wear UV-protective sunglasses to safeguard your eyes.
What is the post-LASIK ectasia, and what are its symptoms?
Post-LASIK ectasia is a rare side effect characterized by progressive thinning of the cornea with reduced vision. Signs may include worsening vision or the appearance of irregular astigmatism.
WAITE VISION AND UTAH SPECIFIC QUESTIONS
What is a LASIK consultation like at your clinic?
You’ll be greeted by our friendly staff and treated like a VIP (because you are)! Many visitors say our office is feels like a five-star hotel. Your consultation involves a very comprehensive eye examination, medical history review, discussion about your visual goals, and an opportunity to ask Dr. Waite any questions.
What is the experience of Dr. Waite as a LASIK surgeon?
Dr. Waite is a fellowship-trained, board-certified ophthalmologist with years of experience in performing LASIK and other vision correction procedures. He is specifically board certified in refractive surgery by the World College of Refractive Surgery and Visual Sciences. He is a founding member of the College and is highly respected world-wide for his knowledge and skills in LASIK, ICLs, Crosslinking and lens replacement procedures. Dr. Waite is committed to providing exceptional care to all his patients. He is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Refractive Surgery Alliance. Other ophthalmologists visit Waite Vision to have their vision correction procedures and to learn more about how we run a practice of excellence.
What is the difference between optometry and ophthalmology? Is Dr. Waite an optometrist or an ophthalmologist?
Even though both are often called eye doctors, they are not the same. Routine eye exams and the prescription of glasses and contact lenses are the main areas of focus in optometry. The comprehensive medical and surgical treatment of the eyes and visual system is the emphasis of the medical specialty of ophthalmology. Dr. Waite is a physician who is dual board-certified in ophthalmology and refractive surgery. This requires much more training than an optometrist. An ophthalmologist has a medical degree and is an M.D. An optometrist is a doctor of optometry and is an O.D.
What makes Utah a popular location for LASIK surgery?
Utah boasts advanced eye care facilities and experienced surgeons, making it a prime location for LASIK surgery. The surrounding mountains are perfect to visit for hiking or skiing depending on the time of year after your LASIK procedure. You will be astounded by the views with your new amazing vision. The dry climate makes healing a breeze.
How is the healthcare quality for LASIK surgery in Utah ensured?
Utah has rigorous regulations and highly qualified surgeons to ensure top-quality healthcare. Waite Vision as a clinic is second to none. Dr. Waite takes time to visit the top clinics nationwide and worldwide including clinics in England, Italy, Ireland, and Argentina. From each clinic he is able to incorporate the bests practices into the protocols at Waite Vision. You can rest assured that the best care possible on Earth will be exactly what you receive at Waite Vision.