LASIK is the world's most widely performed elective surgical procedure. At Princeton Eye Group’s LASIK and Vision Correction Center (formerly Wills Laser Vision at Princeton), it is performed with the precision, technology, and surgical expertise of one of New Jersey's most experienced refractive centers.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a refractive surgical procedure that uses an excimer laser to precisely reshape the cornea, correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure begins with the creation of a thin corneal flap using a femtosecond laser. The flap is gently lifted to expose the corneal stroma, the stable middle layer of the cornea, and the excimer laser is then applied to sculpt a new, precise curvature into the stromal tissue. The flap is replaced and re-adheres within minutes, requiring no sutures. Because the excimer laser removes tissue permanently, and what remains is entirely normal corneal tissue—no scarring, no foreign material—the results are lasting. Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better and are able to resume normal activities the following day.
“I only wish I had done it sooner.”
— Anita, Princeton Eye Patient
Good LASIK candidates are adults with a stable prescription, sufficient corneal thickness, and generally healthy eyes. The procedure treats nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism within certain prescription ranges, and larger prescriptions require careful evaluation to ensure adequate residual corneal tissue following treatment. Patients with certain corneal conditions, significant dry eye, or other ocular health issues may be better suited to PRK, the EVO ICL, or another vision correction option. It is worth noting that LASIK does not prevent the natural aging of the eye. All patients will eventually develop presbyopia, the age-related loss of near focusing ability, and reading glasses may be needed for close-up tasks as patients move into their mid-40s and beyond, regardless of the outcome of their LASIK procedure. The best way to determine whether LASIK is right for you is through a comprehensive refractive evaluation at the LASIK and Vision Correction Center at Princeton Eye Group. Consultations are offered at no charge and with no obligation.
What people with myopia see
What people with hyperopia see
Effects of astigmatism
At Princeton Eye Group, vision correction is priced simply and honestly. Our global fee covers everything—the surgeon's fee, facility fee, laser royalties, eye drops, and all necessary follow-up care—with no hidden upcharges for higher prescriptions, astigmatism, or additional testing. The fee is the same regardless of the complexity of your case.
For patients who prefer to spread the cost over time, we offer flexible monthly payment options through CareCredit. HSA and FSA funds are also accepted, allowing you to use pre-tax dollars toward your investment in better vision.
LASIK permanently reshapes the corneal stroma, and the correction achieved is lasting for the vast majority of patients. Minor prescription fluctuations that would have occurred naturally may still occur over time, and presbyopia, the age-related loss of near focusing ability, develops regardless of LASIK. Most patients enjoy their LASIK results for decades without the need for enhancement.
No. LASIK is a painless procedure. Numbing drops are applied before surgery, and the procedure itself takes approximately 20 minutes. Some patients experience mild dryness or sensitivity in the hours following surgery, which resolves quickly with prescribed drops.
Traditional LASIK used a mechanical blade called a microkeratome to create the corneal flap. Blade-free LASIK replaces the blade with the WaveLight FS200 femtosecond laser, creating a thinner, more precise, and more consistent flap with a significantly improved safety profile. The Princeton Eye Group performs exclusively blade-free LASIK.
Standard LASIK corrects the spherical and astigmatic refractive error of the eye. CONTOURA Vision adds topography-guided treatment that maps and addresses the unique surface irregularities of each cornea, producing a higher quality of vision with fewer night vision disturbances than standard LASIK in appropriate candidates.
Most patients are able to drive the day following surgery, once vision has stabilized sufficiently and their LASIK surgeon has confirmed it is safe. You will not be able to drive on the day of the procedure itself.
In the first week following surgery, patients should avoid rubbing their eyes, wear protective goggles while sleeping, and use prescribed eye drops as directed. Swimming and contact sports should be avoided for a period following surgery. Your surgeon will provide a comprehensive list of post-operative instructions tailored to your specific situation.
Princeton Eye Group charges a single global fee that covers all aspects of the procedure and follow-up care. Financing options are available, and FSA and HSA funds are accepted. Your surgeon will review all costs during your complimentary consultation.
Yes. LASIK effectively treats astigmatism, and the combination of the WaveLight EX500 with the Topolyzer VARIO's iris recognition technology enables exceptionally precise astigmatism correction. CONTOURA Vision further enhances outcomes for patients with corneal surface irregularities contributing to their astigmatism.
