LASIK in North Jersey: Common Questions and Answers
Understanding LASIK Candidacy
Determining if LASIK is right for you starts with a detailed eye examination and discussion of your health history.
You are likely a good candidate if you are at least 18 years old, have had a stable prescription for one year, maintain good general health, and have no active eye disease. A 27-point evaluation, including corneal thickness and pupil size measurements, confirms eligibility.
Astigmatism results from an irregularly shaped cornea. LASIK reshapes these areas so light focuses on a single point, providing clear vision. Wavefront-guided technology customizes treatment for even subtle irregularities.
For those with chronic dry eye or very thin corneas, PRK may be preferred because it removes the outer corneal layer rather than creating a flap. Both procedures are reviewed with each patient to ensure the safest choice.
LASIK is not advised during pregnancy or nursing, in the presence of autoimmune disorders, active eye infections, uncontrolled glaucoma, significant cataracts, or when corneas are too thin.
There is no strict upper age limit. After age 40, monovision LASIK can help manage presbyopia by correcting one eye for distance and the other for near tasks.
Cost and Choosing a Surgeon
Understanding pricing and surgeon qualifications helps you make an informed decision.
Low-cost centers may use older technology and have less-experienced surgeons, which can compromise outcomes. Choosing a practice that prioritizes safety and precision protects your long-term vision.
Most insurance plans classify LASIK as elective, but Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts can offset costs. Financing plans can also spread payments over time.
World-class, fellowship-trained surgeons, advanced all-laser technology, and thorough evaluations define our patient-centered care and strong community reputation.
Expected Results After LASIK
Knowing what to expect after surgery promotes realistic goals and confidence in your outcome.
Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better and no longer use glasses for daily activities. Reading glasses may still be needed later in life due to presbyopia.
In about two to three percent of cases, a slight under-correction may require a brief enhancement once healing stabilizes, usually after three months.
LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea, yet natural aging can introduce presbyopia or cataracts. Minor vision changes can sometimes be refined with an enhancement.
The LASIK Procedure
The actual surgery is quick and comfortable, supported by modern laser technology.
LASIK reshapes the cornea in three precise steps.
- Creating the flap: A femtosecond laser forms a thin, hinged flap.
- Reshaping the cornea: An excimer laser removes microscopic tissue based on your prescription.
- Repositioning the flap: The flap is laid back in place, acting as a natural bandage.
Bilateral LASIK allows one procedure day and one recovery period, helping both eyes heal together for faster return to normal activities.
Contact lenses can temporarily alter corneal shape. Soft lenses should be removed for at least one week, and rigid gas-permeable lenses for six to eight weeks, before measurements.
A 2.5-hour visit includes a 27-point diagnostic assessment, a review with your surgeon, and a personalized treatment plan.
Numbing drops and an optional mild sedative keep you comfortable and pain-free while the procedure is performed.
A gentle lid holder prevents blinking, and an advanced eye-tracking system pauses the laser if significant movement occurs.
The surgery is painless. Mild scratchiness or light sensitivity afterward usually resolves within hours with lubricating drops and rest.
Recovery After LASIK
Healing is typically rapid, allowing most patients to resume daily tasks soon after surgery.
Vision improves quickly during several key stages.
- The first 24 hours: Legal driving vision is common by the next day.
- The first few days: Most regular activities can resume, and vision keeps sharpening.
- The first few weeks: Avoid eye rubbing for one week and swimming or hot tubs for two weeks.
- Long-term: Vision continues to stabilize over the following months.
Many patients are cleared to drive at their one-day follow-up once vision meets legal standards.
FDA-approved and extensively studied, LASIK maintains an excellent safety record when candidate screening and modern technology are combined.
Temporary dry eye, night glare, or light sensitivity may occur but usually resolve with healing. Serious complications are rare.
The correction is lasting, yet natural aging can create new visual needs such as reading glasses or cataract surgery later in life.
Your Vision in the Hands of Skilled LASIK Surgeons
Experience and dedication guide every procedure we perform.
Dr. Patrick K. Chin and Dr. Jung S. Lee completed fellowships at respected institutions, teach future surgeons, and were among the first to perform laser vision correction in New Jersey.
For nearly five decades we have served families across North Jersey and the greater New York City area, earning the trust of local physicians and their patients.
Take the Next Step Toward Clear Vision
We are honored to guide you on the journey to visual freedom. Reach out to our team when you are ready to learn more about how LASIK can improve your everyday life.
I have been going to Westwood Ophthalmology for years. I had LASIK, cataract surgery with lens implants. Couldn't have asked for better care.
Diane Flynn
Surgery site very organized, clean, done on time. Follow up also on time. All questions answered. So glad I had my surgery with Dr. Lee.
Doris Dunn
Dr. Chin is a brilliant doctor and a great person. My wife and I have been going to him for years and he did my wife's LASIK surgery which was perfect.
Thomas Papaleo
Surgery site very organized, clean, done on time. Follow up also on time. All questions answered. So glad I had my surgery with Dr. Lee.
Doris Dunn
Dr. Lee performed surgery on both my eyes. My vision is perfect. Dr Lee is the best.
Chris Codner