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LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK Eye Surgery

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Dreaming About Life Without Eyewear?

Imagine waking up and seeing the world clearly — no glasses, no contacts, just freedom from the moment you open your eyes. At King LASIK, that life-changing moment is within reach. Led by Dr. Joseph King, one of North America’s most experienced LASIK surgeons, our team is dedicated to helping you enjoy the freedom, confidence, and clarity that comes with sharper vision.

Using advanced technology and decades of expertise, we deliver personalized laser vision correction treatments designed to help you live life with greater visual freedom. Whether you’re in Seattle, Tacoma, Lynnwood, Portland, Vancouver, Tri-Cities or Scottsdale, King LASIK provides trusted, patient-first care to help you achieve your best vision — and your best quality of life.

patient during vision test

What is LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK, short for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a popular vision correction procedure that can dramatically reduce or even eliminate the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Approved by the FDA in 1999, LASIK eye surgery works by precisely reshaping the cornea — the clear front surface of the eye — to help light focus properly onto the retina. When the cornea has an irregular shape, it can cause blurred or distorted vision, known as a refractive error.1

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How Does LASIK Eye Surgery Work?

During the LASIK procedure, a specialized laser is used to create a thin flap in the cornea. The underlying tissue is then carefully reshaped to correct the eye’s focusing power. This quick, effective surgery is designed to address common vision problems while preserving eye health.

Many people experience significant improvement in their vision shortly after laser eye surgery. In fact, clinical studies show most LASIK patients achieve 20/20 vision or better the day after their procedure.2

With years of experience, advanced technology, and a dedication to patient care, Dr. Joseph King and the team at King LASIK have helped thousands of individuals achieve clearer vision and a better quality of life.

What Happens the Day of Your Procedure?

You might be surprised to learn that LASIK eye surgery takes just a few minutes per eye — yet it can have a life-changing impact on your vision. At King LASIK, Dr. Joseph King uses advanced laser technology to ensure every LASIK procedure is precise, safe, and comfortable from start to finish.

Here’s what you can expect on the day of your LASIK procedure:

The LASIK Process

LASIK numbing drops

Numbing Drops

Cornea flap created

Corneal Flap is Created

Laser reshapes cornea

Eximer Laser Reshapes Cornea

flap heals

Flap Heals on its Own

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LASIK Vs. Contacts & Glasses

LASIK is an incredibly safe surgery — in fact, it’s one of the most common surgeries performed on eyes today! And thanks to advancements in technology, it’s also more cost effective than it has ever been before. There are three huge benefits to choosing LASIK or refractive surgeries over contacts or glasses.

The Lifetime Cost

The lifetime cost of eyewear is typically thousands of dollars more expensive than the one-time cost of LASIK.

Safety

LASIK is a safe procedure and helps you avoid some risks that come from long-term wear of contact lenses.

Time Saving

You’ll ultimately save yourself a lot of time without the need to update your eyeglass prescriptions or put contacts in.

Learn more about the cost of LASIK.

glasses and contacts

Lifetime Savings from LASIK

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18
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vision exam

Which Vision Problems Can LASIK Correct?

LASIK is designed to correct several of the most common vision problems, also known as refractive errors:

  • Nearsightedness (Myopia): When the cornea is too curved, causing distant objects to appear blurry.
  • Farsightedness (Hyperopia): When the cornea is too flat, making it hard to see nearby objects clearly.
  • Astigmatism: When the cornea has an irregular shape, leading to overall blurry or distorted vision at any distance.

    •  
    By gently adjusting the shape of the cornea during LASIK, your eye surgeon can help light focus correctly onto the retina, resulting in sharper, clearer vision. Whether you’re struggling with nearsightedness, astigmatism, or another refractive error, LASIK offers a proven solution to help you achieve greater visual freedom.

    60-Second Vision Self Test

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    close up of eye during eye exam

    What Are the Biggest Benefits of LASIK?

    Choosing LASIK can open the door to greater freedom, convenience, and confidence. Some of the top benefits of LASIK include:

    • Visual Freedom: LASIK dramatically reduces or eliminates the need for glasses or contacts—giving you true visual independence.
    • Fast and Comfortable Procedure: LASIK itself typically takes only a few minutes and involves minimal discomfort.
    • Rapid Results: Most patients notice clearer vision within 24 hours of their LASIK procedure, with improvements continuing over the following days.
    • Proven Safety and Effectiveness: LASIK has been performed millions of times worldwide, with near 100%3 satisfaction rate and very low rate of complications.4
    • Brief Recovery Time: Thanks to modern techniques and advanced technology, LASIK offers a short recovery period, allowing you to quickly return to daily life.
    • Long-Lasting Outcomes: For most individuals, the results of LASIK are permanent, although natural age-related changes in vision may still occur.
    • Enhanced Quality of Life: Whether it’s playing sports, traveling, or simply enjoying daily activities without corrective lenses, LASIK empowers greater independence and confidence.

    Under the expert care of Dr. Joseph King and the King LASIK team, patients can experience the benefits of a personalized, patient-first approach to vision correction.

    patient during vision correction surgery
    patient during lasik eye surgery

    Who is a good candidate for LASIK?

    In general, good candidates for LASIK meet the following criteria:

    • Age: You are at least 18 years old.
    • Vision Stability: Your glasses or contact lens prescription has remained stable for at least one year.
    • Corneal Health: Your corneas are healthy and thick enough to safely undergo laser reshaping.
    • Eye Health: You are free from conditions such as glaucoma, keratoconus, or severe dry eye that could impact healing.
    • General Health: You are in good overall health, with no unmanaged conditions like autoimmune diseases or uncontrolled diabetes.
    • Realistic Expectations: You understand the tremendous benefits LASIK can offer, along with natural changes that may occur with aging, such as the eventual need for reading glasses.5
    young man looking in the distance while running

    My surgery went perfectly! I have a whole new perspective on life. I am so grateful for taking the steps in having LASIK. The staff at King LASIK was amazing; they made me feel so comfortable. You guys rock! Thanks for making me feel like royalty!
    Stuart A.
    I love my new eyes! I can finally see clearly after 15+ years of wearing glasses. It has been over a year since my surgery and my eyes are still very clear. I felt comfortable with the whole process. Everyone was friendly and nice at the office. Thank you so much Dr. King you have improved my quality of life.
    N.D.
    My experience with King LASIK was definitely better than I expected. The staff were friendly and professional. They walked me through the process step-by-step, and answered all the questions and concerns I had. The operation itself was pleasant with the operation staff talking me through it. I would definitely refer my friends and family. Today is the day after and I feel great. I can see clear again! Thank you King LASIK!
    A.E.

    Why Choose King LASIK for Vision Correction?

    When it comes to something as important as your vision, experience matters. At King LASIK, our mission is to deliver clear, lasting results using advanced technology and a deeply personalized approach. Led by Dr. Joseph King, one of the most experienced LASIK surgeons in North America, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve greater visual freedom with confidence and care.

    Dr. King has performed over 250,000 LASIK procedures, making him one of the most accomplished eye surgeons in the field of refractive surgery. He’s trusted by patients across the region — and by fellow ophthalmologists — for his meticulous technique, modern eye surgery center, and commitment to safety.

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    Dr King with a patient

    What Are the Best LASIK Alternatives?

    While LASIK is an outstanding vision correction procedure for most patients, there are other advanced options available for those who may not qualify or who prefer a different approach. At King LASIK, we offer additional treatments to ensure every patient can achieve clear, lasting vision based on their individual eye health and goals.

    During your free consultation, Dr. Joseph King will perform a detailed evaluation to determine whether LASIK, EVO ICL, or PRK is the best fit for achieving your clearest possible vision.

    EVO ICL™ (Implantable Collamer Lens)

    For patients with high degrees of nearsightedness, thin corneas, or dry eye concerns, the EVO ICL offers an exciting alternative. This procedure involves implanting a soft, biocompatible lens inside the eye, without removing any corneal tissue. EVO ICL provides sharp, crisp vision and is reversible, giving many patients a new level of freedom from glasses and contact lenses.

    Learn more about EVO ICL

    PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

    PRK is a proven refractive surgery option often recommended for patients with thinner corneas or certain corneal irregularities. Instead of creating a flap like LASIK, PRK gently reshapes the surface of the cornea directly to improve how light focuses onto the retina. Although recovery time is slightly longer than LASIK, PRK offers excellent visual outcomes and long-term stability.

    Learn more about PRK

    How Should I Prepare Before My LASIK Procedure?

    Preparing for LASIK is a simple but important process that helps ensure your procedure goes smoothly and your results are as precise as possible. At King LASIK, we guide you through every step with clear communication, advanced diagnostics, and compassionate care.

    Before Your Consultation

    To ensure the most accurate measurements during your evaluation, please follow these simple guidelines:

    • Soft Contact Lenses: Discontinue use at least 3 days before your consultation.
    • Hard or Gas Permeable Lenses: Stop use at least one week prior to your appointment.

    Allowing your corneas to return to their natural shape is crucial for creating the most precise and effective treatment plan.

    patient during eye exam lasik consultation

    Your LASIK Consultation

    Your journey begins with a personalized consultation with our experienced staff. This visit includes a comprehensive eye exam, advanced imaging, and a detailed review of your vision history to confirm that LASIK is the right vision correction procedure for you.

    During your consultation, you can expect:

    • Detailed Testing: We’ll assess your cornea, prescription stability, and overall eye health using advanced diagnostic technology.
    • Custom Treatment Planning: Our medical staff will discuss your vision goals and explain the LASIK procedure, answering any questions you may have.
    • Scheduling Your Procedure: If you’re a good candidate, we’ll create your personalized treatment plan and set a date for your LASIK surgery.

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    Preparing for LASIK Surgery

    In the days leading up to your procedure, our team will provide you with specific pre-surgical instructions, which may include:

    • Avoiding makeup, lotions, creams, or perfumes on the day of surgery.
    • Stopping use of certain medications if advised by your ophthalmologist.
    • Arranging for a friend or family member to drive you home after your procedure, as your vision will be adjusting.

    Our team will also review your post-operative care instructions with you in detail on the day of your LASIK procedure to ensure you feel confident and prepared.

    With decades of experience and thousands of LASIK procedures performed, our surgeons and the entire King LASIK team are committed to making your experience safe, smooth, and successful.

    What is the Recovery Like After LASIK?

    At King LASIK, your comfort, safety, and clear vision are our top priorities throughout every stage of your LASIK recovery. Dr. Joseph King and our team will provide personalized post-operative care instructions and schedule follow-up visits to ensure your eyes heal properly and your vision continues to improve.

    What to Expect Immediately After LASIK

    • Rest: Plan to relax and sleep for the remainder of the day after your laser eye surgery. Giving your eyes a chance to recover early supports faster healing.
    • Mild Symptoms: It’s normal to experience slight burning, itching, watery eyes, or light sensitivity for the first 24 hours. These symptoms usually improve quickly.
    • Eye Protection: You’ll be given protective eye shields to wear while sleeping and prescription eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
    • Dryness: Some patients notice dry eyes during the recovery period. Lubricating eye drops can help keep your eyes comfortable as they heal.
    young person relaxing at home during recovery

    When Will I See Results After LASIK?

    Most patients notice an improvement in their vision within just a few hours after LASIK surgery. Most experience significantly clearer vision by the next day and continue to see gradual enhancements over the following days and weeks. It’s truly exciting for many to enjoy life without dependence on eyeglasses or contact lenses so soon after their vision correction procedure.

    Returning to Daily Activities After LASIK

    • Next-Day Activities: Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and normal daily routines as early as the day after LASIK.
    • Exercise and Sports: Avoid strenuous activities for about one week to protect the corneal flap as it heals.
    • Swimming: Refrain from swimming or using hot tubs for approximately two weeks after surgery.

    Follow-Up Care

    You’ll return to King LASIK for a follow-up appointment the day after your procedure, with additional visits scheduled as needed to monitor your healing. These check-ins allow your surgeon to ensure your recovery is progressing smoothly and that your vision correction results are on track.

    By closely following all post-operative instructions, attending follow-up appointments, and protecting your eye health, you’ll help ensure a smooth recovery and long-lasting results from your LASIK eye surgery.

    LASIK FAQs

    LASIK corrects astigmatism by gently reshaping the cornea—the clear front surface of your eye. Astigmatism is caused by an uneven curvature of the cornea, which can make vision blurry or distorted at all distances. During LASIK, a precise laser is used to smooth out those irregularities so light can focus more accurately on the retina at the back of your eye.

    At King LASIK, we use advanced laser mapping and your past prescription data to customize every procedure. Whether you have mild or more significant astigmatism, we design your treatment to match your eye’s unique shape—often delivering crisp, clear vision without glasses or contacts.

    LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Once the cornea is adjusted, the improvements in your vision are designed to last. However, while LASIK corrects existing vision issues, it cannot prevent natural, age-related changes such as presbyopia, which can affect near vision beginning in your 40s or 50s. As the natural lens inside the eye continues to age over time, some patients may later benefit from advanced options like Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) from our team at K2 Vision.

    No, LASIK is not painful. Before your vision correction procedure begins, anesthetic eye drops are applied to completely numb your eyes. Most patients feel only slight pressure during parts of the surgery. Afterward, you might experience mild irritation, dryness, or a gritty sensation — similar to having an eyelash in your eye — but these symptoms typically resolve within a day.

    Yes, LASIK is considered very safe and effective. It has been FDA-approved and has helped millions of people worldwide achieve clearer vision. According to the American Refractive Surgery Council, fewer than 1% of patients experience serious complications. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential side effects, including temporary dry eyes, halos, glare at night, or mild light sensitivity. Choosing an experienced eye surgeon helps minimize risks and optimize your outcome.

    While LASIK has an exceptional safety record, it’s important to understand potential risks. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, common side effects6 include:

    • Dry eyes
    • Nighttime halos or glare
    • Temporary double vision
    • Over- or under-correction
    • Light sensitivity
    • Corneal flap complications (rare)

    These risks are minimized by thorough pre-operative evaluations, advanced technology, and choosing a surgeon with extensive years of experience, like Dr. Joseph King.

    Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and normal activities the very next day after LASIK. However, your surgeon will give you personalized guidance based on your individual healing progress.

    Prior to your procedure, your surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your eyes and provide a strong estimate of your expected outcome. Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after LASIK, significantly reducing or eliminating the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses.

    Because LASIK is considered an elective vision correction procedure, it’s not typically covered by insurance. However, many patients use HSA or FSA accounts to help pay for LASIK. King LASIK also offers affordable financing plans to make achieving clear vision more accessible.

    The cost of LASIK varies depending on your individual vision needs, the type of technology used, and your customized treatment plan. At King LASIK, we believe in transparent pricing and will review all costs with you during your consultation. We also offer flexible financing options and accept HSA/FSA funds to make LASIK more accessible. Whether you’re in Seattle, Portland, Vancouver, the Tri-Cities, Tacoma, or Scottsdale, we’re committed to helping you invest in clearer vision affordably.