Posted by: Caster Eye Center in Uncategorized

concept for time of year to get lasik

For decades, LASIK treatment has given millions of patients back crisp, clear vision. The procedure takes minutes yet produces results that last a lifetime. When planning their procedure, many patients want to know: is there a best time of year to get LASIK?

Is There a Best Time of Year To Get LASIK?

We will start by making it clear: patients can safely have LASIK at any point in the year. No single timeframe will increase your risk or benefits. When discussing the best time of year to get LASIK, the only changes will be to convenience and comfort.

Even so, these variations stay small. However, we know LASIK can be a big decision for many patients. So, having the procedure at the most optimal time can help reduce stress, boost comfort, and make for a more positive experience overall.

Top Time of Year for LASIK: Autumn

Now, this may not apply to every region. Instead, we will focus more on autumn-like weather rather than this exact calendar period. For example, autumn in Los Angeles can still mean temperatures in the 90s. 

Why Autumn Is Best for LASIK

Improved Recovery Comfort

After LASIK, some patients may have increased eye dryness for some time. Cooler temperatures may help with that. But waiting into the dead of winter might stick you with too-cold temperatures, which can further dry your eyes.

Instead, choose a time when the weather stays mild for a couple of weeks. On the other hand, excessive heat can dehydrate you, which may also affect your eye comfort.

In general, most patients stay indoors for LASIK recovery anyway. So, the weather outside cannot stop you from having the procedure in whichever season you want.

See Better By the Holidays

A LASIK procedure in the fall means you should have the full benefits by the holiday season. While LASIK does have a very short recovery, some side effects can linger. By giving yourself plenty of time before the holidays, you can let all side effects fully resolve. By the time winter events and gatherings come around, your eyes should be at their best.

Arguments for Other Times of the Year

The best time of year to get LASIK ultimately depends on your lifestyle and schedule. If autumn does not work for you, then another season may actually prove better. Below, we cover arguments for and against each other season.

LASIK in Spring

Choose LASIK in spring if you want to clear your vision before the summer holidays. Beach trips are so much better when you do not have to worry about losing your glasses in the ocean. Students and teachers can also use spring break as the ideal time to sharpen their vision.

Patients with significant spring allergies might want to choose a different season. Pollen allergies tend to result in eye inflammation for many people. Going into LASIK with itchy, red eyes might not be doing yourself a favor.

LASIK in Summer

Summer means more free time for students, teachers, and some other professions. Have the procedure, then start the new semester with newfound clarity. Summer might also prove easier for scheduling since fewer patients have the procedure during this time.

Excessively hot summers can increase eye dryness due to dehydration. Additionally, if you plan your vacation during the summer, it may overlap with your procedure recovery time.

The Real Best Time for LASIK: Now!

Life is short, and enhanced vision can help you live it to the fullest. Waiting around for the perfect time for something can often lead to it never happening. There will always be a “better” time. But in truth, for LASIK at least, the present is best. Find your local eye surgeon and sign up for a consultation to see if this procedure can give your eyes a lifelong boost.

LASIK in Winter

Most jobs give employees time off in winter, allowing for easier scheduling. However, eye surgeons also take time off, so plan accordingly. But the extra time off can also give you time to let any side effects resolve.

If you have big winter plans, you may want to save LASIK for another season. The recovery period moves quickly. However, we recommend that patients do not risk any interference with their plans.

A Top Expert in LASIK

Dr. Andrew Caster was one of the first surgeons to ever perform laser eye surgery. He has had the procedure himself and knows firsthand the life-changing benefits it can provide.