Live more freely with laser vision correction (LVC). Whether you’re exploring standard LASIK, topography‑guided CONTOURA® Vision, or PRK, this guide explains how each option works, what to expect, safety considerations, budgeting tips, real‑patient stories, FAQs, and how to find a surgeon.
Your Options at a Glance
Laser Vision Correction reshapes the cornea so the eye can focus light more effectively—reducing dependence on glasses and contacts. Alcon’s WaveLight® technology powers multiple approaches, including LASIK and CONTOURA® Vision, while PRK uses a slightly different surgical technique to access the cornea.
WaveLight® LASIK: Precision, Speed, and Proven Results
What it is: LASIK on the Alcon WaveLight® platform uses a cool‑beam excimer laser to refine the intricate landscape of your cornea. It’s designed for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
- Precise: Smooths corneal irregularities to optimize focus.
- Fast: Laser time is typically just seconds per eye.
- Effective: Many notice clearer vision quickly, with ongoing improvement as the eye heals.
- Cool‑beam technology: Targets only the reshaping needed.
WaveLight® LASIK can be performed with CONTOURA® Vision for a personalized, data‑rich treatment plan.
CONTOURA® Vision: A Personalized, Topography‑Guided LASIK
CONTOURA® Vision maps up to 22,000 unique elevation points on each eye—creating a topographic “fingerprint” of your cornea to guide treatment. This added detail helps your surgeon visualize and address subtle corneal features.
Like other LASIK options, CONTOURA® Vision aims to reduce visual symptoms often associated with glasses and contacts, including glare, halos, starbursts, and difficulty with night driving or reading.
PRK: Reshape the Way You See—An Alternative to LASIK
PRK accesses the corneal surface without creating a corneal flap. The surgeon removes a thin layer of surface cells, reshapes the cornea with the laser, and places a soft bandage contact lens to aid healing.
- Healing timeline: LASIK can deliver clearer vision faster; PRK vision typically clears more gradually.
- Lifestyle and anatomy: PRK may be recommended for people in contact sports, or for certain eye conditions such as dry eye or thin corneas.
- Cost: Pricing varies by clinic and technology; PRK can sometimes cost less than other LASIK procedures.
What to Expect—Before, During, and After LASIK
Before Your Procedure
Your surgeon will assess visual acuity, corneal shape, overall eye health, and precise eye measurements. Contact lens wearers may need to stop wearing lenses up to two weeks before evaluation.
Day of Procedure
LVC is typically quick—often ~10 minutes per eye with total in‑office time under 30 minutes. You’ll receive anesthetic eye drops, lie under the laser, and focus on a blinking light while cool laser energy reshapes the cornea.
After Your Procedure
Many patients notice improvement immediately, with vision continuing to stabilize. Plan for a driver, avoid driving for 24 hours, and follow all post‑op care instructions.
Safety & Important Product Information
LASIK and PRK are widely performed procedures with strong safety profiles when performed on appropriate candidates by trained surgeons using approved technologies. However, all surgery carries risks such as dry eye, visual symptoms, or rare vision loss. Review full risks and benefits with your surgeon.
Budgeting for LASIK
Many people view LVC as an investment that can reduce or eliminate ongoing expenses for glasses and contacts. Costs vary by location, technology, and surgeon experience. LASIK is usually not covered by insurance, but FSA/HSA funds and payment plans are often available.
Real Patient Stories
Explore video testimonials from patients who chose LASIK for work, family, sports, and everyday convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is LVC? Laser vision correction uses a laser to reshape the cornea for better focus.
- What does LASIK stand for? Laser‑Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis.
- Am I a candidate? A quick series of tests can assess candidacy.
- How common is LASIK? Millions worldwide have enhanced their vision with LASIK.
- How much does it cost? There’s no universal price; consult your clinic for a personalized quote.
How to Choose & Find a LASIK Surgeon
Start with your eye doctor’s recommendations, then consider experience, technology, and communication. Use the surgeon locator to find options near you.