Older woman smiling

LASIK Surgery

If you are frustrated with your dependence on glasses and contact lenses, you may be searching for a more permanent solution.

LASIK can correct a variety of visual problems, including blurry vision caused by nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

At Choate Eye Associates in Goodlettsville, TN, we provide safe LASIK surgery to Hendersonville, TN, and other areas around Nashville, TN.

Experience Dramatic Results  LASIK Eye Surgery Has High Rates of Success

Find Out If LASIK Is Right for You Contact Our Practice for a Consultation

With state-of-the-art technology and a dedication to long-lasting relationships with our patients, our team strives to provide the most comprehensive eye care possible. Get in touch with our practice in Goodlettsville, TN, today to learn more about LASIK, the cost of surgery, and how we can address your nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. We serve patients from Hendersonville and other areas around Nashville and throughout Tennessee at Choate Eye Associates.

Contact us online to ask a question or request a consultation. You can also reach us by phone:

Call: (615) 851-7575

Dr. Choate and patient
Choate Eye Associates has provided exceptional eye care to the greater Nashville area in 1979.

Read Our 5-Star Reviews We Have Many Happy Nashville-Area Patients

1

nan bowers

2022

Google logo

Everyone in the office is friendly, knowledgable and helpful. It's worth driving out of my way to get the best care.

View on Google
1

Cynthia House

2022

Google logo

I had the best experience at Dr Choate office. Everyone was nice and friendly. I would refer my friends and family to see Dr. Choate.

View on Google

What Is LASIK?

LASIK eye surgery works by reshaping the outermost portion of the eye, known as the cornea, with a laser. This transparent tissue covers the front of the eye, protecting it and helping to focus light onto the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye). Any irregularities in the shape of the cornea can distort light entering the eye, resulting in fuzzy vision at certain distances.

By modifying the cornea’s shape with a laser at our Nashville-area practice, LASIK can correct these errors and help you achieve clear vision at all distances.

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a popular and effective laser eye surgery. While LASIK may not always eliminate the need for corrective eyewear, it can greatly reduce dependence. LASIK is safe and quick, with little downtime.

What Types of Refractive Errors Can LASIK Surgery Improve?

Hyperopia

Also known as farsightedness, hyperopia is when it's easier to see objects that are at a distance than objects that are nearby.

Myopia

Also known as nearsightedness, myopia is when it's easier to see nearby objects than objects that are in the distance.

Astigmatism

Astigmatism refers to a flaw in the curvature of the cornea. This corneal imperfection affects vision at all distances.

Have Questions About LASIK? We Can Help You Find the Answer

LASIK eye surgery can greatly improve your quality of life, but you should understand all of the details first. Dr. Choate has over four decades of experience and won’t oversell treatments or pressure you into choosing a more expensive option. He can answer your questions about LASIK, PRK, or any other type of vision correction and provide all the details you need.  

Request an appointment with Dr. Choate to discuss any vision issues and learn more about  LASIK procedures. You can also submit a question or call our Goodlettsville, TN, office at: 

(615) 851-7575

Dr. Choate
We have been providing educational resources and helping Nashville-area patients make informed decisions about their eye care since 1979.

"I trust Dr. Choate with all my eye needs." More Reviews from the Nashville Area

1

John Saros

2021

Google logo

Dr. Choate is extremely knowledgeable and I left feeling like he cared about my vision. His staff is super friendly and laughed at my bad jokes with conviction. 10/10, will go again.

View on Google
1

Melissa Bandy

2021

Google logo

I've been going to Choate Eye Associates for close to 15 years now. I trust Dr. Choate with all my eye needs, he is always so thorough and they have the most stylish frames around! The staff is always so nice and very helpful.

View on Google

On the Day of Surgery

/

On the day of your laser eye surgery, avoid wearing makeup, perfume, cologne, and lotion. This helps avoid infection. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and leave any jewelry at home. Relaxed attire helps ensure a better LASIK experience.

What to Expect During LASIK Eye Surgery

Most of our Nashville-area patients notice improved vision within 24 hours of LASIK surgery and make a full recovery within a few days.

LASIK surgery is an outpatient procedure, usually lasting no longer than 10 minutes per eye.

Most patients notice improved vision within 24 hours of LASIK surgery.
Most patients notice improved vision within 24 hours of LASIK surgery.

Sedation

LASIK surgery is relatively painless, and in most cases only numbing eye drops are needed to keep the patient comfortable. However, our surgeon can provide a mild sedative for those who are anxious about the procedure. This is taken 30 minutes to an hour before surgery to help you relax.

Preparation

To ensure you do not blink or move your eyes involuntarily, a lid speculum and suction ring will be applied to each eye. Once you have been prepped, you will be positioned so that your eye is directly underneath the LASIK device. During the procedure, you will be instructed to focus on a target light.

Incision

To begin surgery, our surgeon creates a thin, circular, hinged flap on the surface of the eye. The flap is opened for the next stage of surgery.

Corneal Reshaping

Before your surgery, your specific prescription will be uploaded into the LASIK device’s software. This acts as a guide for the laser, removing corneal tissue in order to flatten, steepen, or smooth out the irregularities that are causing your nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and other unique refractive problems.

Completing Treatment

After the cornea has been sufficiently reshaped with the laser and the right amount of correction has been achieved, the flap is laid back in place and allowed to heal naturally. No stitches or bandages are necessary.

Do's and Don'ts After LASIK Eye Surgery

/

In the first hours post-LASIK, do your best to avoid bright lights and keep your eyes closed. Avoid any activities that could cause eyestrain for the first 24 hours, such as reading, watching movies, playing video games, or using your smart phone or laptop. Do not rub or touch your eyes until instructed by your surgeon.

Recovery and Results

The recovery process after LASIK typically lasts several days. You should expect blurry vision and some minor burning or itching immediately after your appointment at our Nashville-area practice. Because your vision will not be clear enough to drive, you will need a family member or friend to escort you home after your appointment.

Most patients notice a significant correction in vision within 24 hours of their LASIK eye surgery, although in some cases it may take longer. You will need to attend a follow-up appointment with our surgeon the day after your procedure, and you can usually return to work and driving at this time.

Some of the side effects you may experience in the days and weeks after LASIK include:

  • Glare and halos around lights
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Dry eyes
  • Itchy eyes

"Great to work with." Vision Care for People in and Around Nashville

1

Larry Hancock

2022

Google logo

Very professional and caring

View on Google
1

Angela Pitts

2021

Google logo

The entire staff at Choate are great to work with. Very sensitive and caring. I’ve been going working with this team since 2011 and highly recommend them!

View on Google

What Is the Difference Between LASIK and PRK?

Dr. Choate can recommend which vision corrective surgery is best suited to your needs during your first consultation at our Nashville-area practice.

Like PRK, the first successful laser vision correction procedure, LASIK reshapes the cornea by removing microscopic amounts of tissue from its inner layers. The main difference between the two is how this tissue is accessed. In PRK, the outermost layer of the cornea is removed completely. This is preferable for some patients but also leads to a lengthier recovery and the need for a protective contact lens.

To perform LASIK, Dr. Choate creates a thin, circular, hinged flap on the cornea, which is folded back to allow access to the tissue beneath.

LASIK offers some unique advantages, including:

  • Decreased risk of post-surgical infection 
  • A faster, more comfortable recovery
  • No need for bandage contact lenses 

Patients should keep in mind, however, that there is a small risk of developing complications related to the flap. 

Other Related Treatments

IOL on glove

IOL Refractive Surgery

Intraocular lens (IOL) surgery is an alternative to LASIK that offers vision correction by replacing the lens in your eye. Patients who are not eligible for LASIK may still be able to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses and contact lenses through IOL surgery. 

vision therapy

Vision Therapy

This non-invasive treatment can be used alongside eyewear or during the post-recovery period of surgery. While vision therapy may not replace the effects of LASIK or other vision correction surgeries, it can help improve your ability to focus on objects and help treat other conditions, like lazy eye.

Financing LASIK Surgery

While most insurance companies may not directly cover the cost of LASIK surgery, some plans may offer discounts for the eye surgery. We also offer payment plans through third-party lenders to break up the cost into affordable monthly payments. Our experienced staff can check your insurance plan and explore other financing options to make LASIK more accessible.

Invest in Yourself With LASIK

LASIK is an investment in your ocular health, your happiness, and your overall quality of life.

This safe, quick vision correction treatment can bring exciting new possibilities, such as freedom, flexibility, and future financial savings.

You're one step closer to it all, now that you've found a caring, knowledgeable team to help. Led by board-certified optometrist Dr. Choate, Choate Eye Associates has proudly served patients since 1979.

With our advanced technology and techniques, we can also give you better results and stronger peace of mind.

Financing is available. If you're ready to revitalize your vision with laser eye surgery, contact our Nashville-area office or call:

(615) 851-7575

Office interior
Our optometry practice is located in Goodlettsville, TN, situated conveniently near Nashville.

"The BEST eye care in the area!" Proudly Serving Goodlettsville, Nashville, and the Entire Region

1

Karen Cobb

2021

Google logo

The BEST eye care in the area! I have been a patient at Choate Eye Associates since 1998. They are very caring, professional, great with time management, and extremely personable! They also do not have a lot of staff turnover, so you all become like family!!!

View on Google
1

Jessica Thomas

2022

Google logo

Dr Choate and team are very attentive and make me feel valued every time I come in.

They always make sure I am 100% satisfied before I leave.

View on Google

LASIK FAQ

If you're thinking of visiting our practice in the Nashville, TN, area, you may have some questions first.

What's the Best Age to Get LASIK?

The ideal age range for LASIK patients is usually around 25-40 years old. By this age range, a person will usually have a stable prescription for their glasses or contacts. Since everyone's vision is different, it's crucial that you discuss your candidacy for LASIK with a qualified eye doctor.

Can LASIK Help With My Presbyopia?

Many patients notice that as they age, they experience worsening vision. This condition is called presbyopia. Unfortunately, because it affects your lens and not your cornea, presbyopia cannot be corrected with LASIK. However, we can help you see clearer with glasses and contacts, as well as routine vision appointments.

Is LASIK Painful?

No, you should not feel any pain or discomfort during your laser treatment. Your surgeon will ensure that you stay comfortable with numbing eye drops. The procedure is also brief, taking about 10 minutes per eye, so it will be over before you know it.

How Long Do LASIK Results Last?

The majority of LASIK patients will enjoy the results of laser vision correction for the rest of their lives. A smaller percentage may need reading glasses for minimal correction as they age. Overall, though, the effects of LASIK are permanent.

A Passion for Eye Care and Patient Comfort Why Nashville Patients Trust Us

1

Beverly Benedict

2022

Google logo

I appreciate the passion Dr Choate's has for his work and patients.

View on Google
1

Debby Locke

2021

Google logo

If you are looking for a Dr. and staff that is truly cares about the health of your eyes this is the place for you.

View On Google
Dr. Choate

Choate Eye Associates

Choate Eye Associates has been delivering high-quality, compassionate eye care to the Nashville community since 1979. We are affiliated with various leading organizations in the field, including: 

  • American Academy of Optometry
  • American Optometric Association 
  • National Board of Examiners in Optometry 

To schedule a consultation at our practice, call us at (615) 851-7575 or request an appointment online

Contact Us Today

"I am very pleased with the attention I received at Choate Eye Associates. Dr. Choate is very thorough and does a wonderful job of explaining what he is doing and what he is looking for in the exam." Dianal - Comprehensive Eye Care Patient

Rate, Review & Explore

Social Accounts Sprite