LASIK is a popular vision correction procedure that involves using specialized lasers to reshape the cornea, correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Most patients enjoy complete freedom from glasses and contacts for decades, along with crisp, clear vision that enhances every activity.
At Black Hills Regional Eye Institute, we combine years of experience with state-of-the-art technologies, including the WaveLight® EX500 excimer laser and the WaveLight® FS200 femtosecond laser, to improve the safety, personalization, and effectiveness of our LASIK procedures.
Each procedure takes just 10-15 minutes to complete and is virtually painless. Many patients experience visual improvements right away and can return to normal activities the next day.
The best way for you to determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK is through an in-depth consultation with your LASIK surgeon at Black Hills Regional Eye Center. In general, you must:
Have you been told you’re not a good candidate for LASIK but still want to achieve visual freedom? Black Hills Regional Eye Institute offers a comprehensive selection of alternatives designed to meet your vision needs:
LASIK involves creating a small flap in the surface of the cornea, folding it back, and reshaping the tissue underneath. PRK works similarly to correct refractive errors, but involves completely removing the surface layer of the cornea to reshape the tissue underneath.
EVO ICL is a LASIK alternative that involves placing a thin, biocompatible lens between the iris and natural lens of your eye to correct nearsightedness and astigmatism. The implant acts like a permanent contact lens, but can be removed at any time by your eye surgeon if your vision needs change.
For patients with presbyopia (age-related farsightedness), our eye doctors perform monovision LASIK, a procedure that corrects your dominant eye for distance and your non-dominant eye for intermediate and near vision. Over time, your brain learns to adjust focus between the eyes for the task at hand.
INTACS corneal implants are specifically designed for patients with keratoconus, an eye condition where the cornea progressively bulges, leading to blurred or distorted vision. INTACS are small rings placed within the cornea to flatten it and correct vision.
Stephen Khachikian, MD, is a board-certified eye physician and surgeon specializing in cornea, cataract, and refractive surgeries. Dr. Khachikian has conducted extensive clinical research on keratoconus, corneal topography, and endothelial keratoplasty.
Scott Schirber, OD, is the Laser Vision Center Director and also manages our Dry Eye Clinic. He is a Rapid City optometrist who evaluates patients for laser vision correction, dry eye evaluations, specialty contact lens fitting, and performs comprehensive eye exams.
At Black Hills Regional Eye Institute, our mission is to provide comprehensive eye care of the highest quality in an efficient and innovative manner and to continually improve that care through education and research. Hundreds of doctors and patients count on us to provide the very best in diagnosis, treatment, consultation, surgery, research, and education.
Our physicians and staff are honored to serve patients and are sincere in their claim that the phrases “eye care” and “I care” have exactly the same meaning. From general vision screening to laser eye surgery, you can trust the Eye Institute located in the Black Hills to provide the best possible care.
At the Eye Institute, we offer multiple pre- and post-operative packages to better suit each patient’s unique needs. Our total price for LASIK surgery depends on your choice, as each package is priced differently.
During your free consultation, we will provide detailed pricing information so you can choose what best fits your needs. You can also call to receive more information on pricing at 605-718-EYES. Financing is also available through CareCredit to those who qualify, offering low monthly payments.
“Very pleased with my decision to move forward with LASIK. The team was informative and fantastic to work with. Surgery and recovery were both a breeze. I would highly recommend not only LASIK, but BHREI to anyone interested!”
- Rhette L.
“I had an amazing experience at BHREI! From start to finish, the entire team was kind, professional, and somehow made me feel like I was checking into a luxury resort for my eyeballs. The procedure itself was shockingly fast and totally painless. They walked me through every step and made sure I was comfortable the whole time. I seriously can’t thank them enough for giving me the gift of glasses-free life. If you’re thinking about LASIK, this is the place to go.”
- Bailie J.
“What a wonderful place. I have never had such genuine care from a medical facility. I had EVO ICL Surgery, which was a complete success. I see 20/15 from almost blind before. Everyone from the people at check-in, assistants, nurses, and doctors was all very kind, concerned, and made me feel comfortable during the entire process. A true gift of sight has been given to me. Thank you to all at The Black Hills Eye Institute.”
- Travis H.