What Happens During a LASIK Evaluation in Omaha?
Published by on January 30, 2026
If you’re considering LASIK in Omaha, understanding the evaluation process is an important first step. Knowing what to expect — and how to prepare — helps you make an informed decision about your vision correction options.
What happens during a LASIK evaluation in Omaha?
A LASIK evaluation in Omaha typically includes a comprehensive eye exam, corneal thickness measurements, corneal topography mapping, pupil size assessment, tear film evaluation, and a review of your medical history and vision goals. The evaluation determines whether your eyes are suitable for LASIK or if another vision correction procedure may be more appropriate. Most evaluations take one to two hours.
At Kugler Vision, the evaluation process is called EyeAnalysis — a comprehensive diagnostic exam using advanced imaging technology that typically takes 90 minutes. Surgeons Dr. Lance Kugler or Dr. Drew Dickson personally review every patient’s results and recommends the procedure best suited to your unique eyes, whether that’s LASIK, SMILE, EVO ICL, or another option from the seven procedures offered at the practice. This personalized approach is why patients travel from 47 states and several countries to Kugler Vision for their evaluation.
What tests are performed during a LASIK evaluation in Omaha?
LASIK evaluations in Omaha generally include corneal topography to map the cornea’s surface, pachymetry to measure corneal thickness, wavefront analysis to detect optical aberrations, and pupil size measurement in various lighting conditions. Additional tests include tear film assessment for dry eye and refraction testing for your current prescription. These tests help determine candidacy and customize the procedure.
As an internationally-recognized center of excellence, Kugler Vision uses advanced diagnostic technology including the Pentacam and wavefront aberrometry to create a detailed map of each patient’s eyes. This level of precision allows Dr. Kugler and Dr. Dickson to identify not just whether you’re a LASIK candidate, but which of the seven vision correction procedures will deliver your best outcome — whether that’s LASIK, SMILE, PRK, EVO ICL, or another advanced option.
How long does a LASIK consultation take at Omaha practices?
A LASIK consultation at Omaha practices usually takes one to two hours. The appointment includes multiple diagnostic tests and time to discuss your results and options with the surgeon or clinical team. Patients should plan for the full duration and arrange transportation, as dilating drops may temporarily affect vision.
Kugler Vision’s EyeAnalysis consultation is thorough by design — not rushed to move patients through a sales funnel. Patients meet directly with Dr. Lance Kugler or Dr. Drew Dickson, both board-certified ophthalmologists and WCRS fellows, to review their diagnostic results and discuss which vision correction procedure best matches their eyes and lifestyle goals. This patient-first approach is one reason Kugler Vision has been voted Best in Omaha 11 years running.
What should I do to prepare for my LASIK evaluation in Omaha?
To prepare for a LASIK evaluation in Omaha, stop wearing soft contact lenses one to two weeks before your appointment, and rigid gas permeable lenses three to four weeks prior. Contact lens wear affects corneal shape, so accurate measurements require time for the cornea to stabilize. Bring your current glasses, a medication list, and questions about the procedure.
As a practice that welcomes patients from 47 states and multiple countries, Kugler Vision’s team ensures every detail is handled professionally from your first contact. You’ll receive clear, comprehensive preparation instructions when scheduling your EyeAnalysis consultation, and the experienced clinical team is available to answer any questions about contact lens discontinuation timelines or what to expect during your visit.
What disqualifies someone from LASIK during an Omaha evaluation?
Common LASIK disqualifying factors include thin corneas, unstable prescriptions, severe dry eye, certain autoimmune conditions, pregnancy or nursing, uncontrolled diabetes, and corneal diseases like keratoconus. Patients under 18 are also disqualified, as vision should be stable before surgery. However, those disqualified from LASIK may be candidates for alternatives like PRK, SMILE, or EVO ICL.
Kugler Vision was the first practice in Nebraska to offer all seven modern vision correction procedures, so patients who aren’t LASIK candidates often have multiple other options. As a WCRS fellow, Dr. Kugler’s evaluation process is designed to identify the safest, most effective procedure for each patient’s unique eyes, not to fit everyone into a single solution. This comprehensive approach is why Kugler Vision is recognized internationally as a center of excellence.
Is the LASIK evaluation painful at Omaha practices?
LASIK evaluations are not painful. Most tests are non-contact and involve looking into diagnostic machines while images are captured. Numbing drops may be used for certain measurements. Some patients experience mild discomfort from bright lights during testing, but the evaluation itself does not involve any surgical intervention or significant discomfort.
Kugler Vision’s clinical team brings years of specialized experience in helping patients feel comfortable throughout the evaluation process. The advanced diagnostic technology used — the same technology that has helped earn Kugler Vision over 1,300 five-star reviews — is designed for patient comfort while providing the detailed measurements needed for world-class treatment planning.
Are LASIK consultations free at Omaha practices?
Many Omaha LASIK practices offer free or complimentary consultations, though policies vary by provider. A free consultation often includes basic candidacy screening and may involve some sales pressure to schedule surgery quickly. Some practices include comprehensive diagnostic testing in the complimentary visit, while others charge separately for advanced testing. Ask when scheduling whether the consultation fee is waived and what’s included.
Kugler Vision’s EyeAnalysis is a comprehensive, unhurried evaluation designed to ensure every patient receives thorough diagnostic testing and personalized recommendations with no surprise tests at additional cost later on. In fact, doctors travel from around the world to Omaha to learn from Dr. Kugler and his team. The $100 evaluation focuses on determining the right procedure for your eyes and delivering an exceptional patient experience, with the cost of the evaluation later applied to the cost of the procedure. The consultation reflects both the thoroughness of the diagnostic process and the surgeon’s direct, personal involvement in your care.
What questions should I ask during a LASIK consultation in Omaha?
During your LASIK consultation in Omaha, ask about the surgeon’s experience and credentials, the specific technology used, and your candidacy for LASIK versus other procedures. Inquire about expected outcomes for your prescription, potential risks and side effects, recovery timeline, and what’s included in the quoted price. Ask about the practice’s enhancement policy if a touch-up is needed, and request to see outcome data or patient reviews.
Dr. Lance Kugler and Dr. Drew Dickson welcome patient questions. Kugler Vision has made the Best in Omaha for LASIK list 11 years running, with both surgeons bringing credentials and outcomes that patients can verify independently. Kugler Vision encourages informed decision-making and is transparent about outcomes — with over 1,300 five-star reviews publicly available and patient stories shared openly on the website.
Ready to find out if you’re a candidate for LASIK or another vision correction procedure? Schedule your EyeAnalysis consultation at Kugler Vision — the first practice in Nebraska offering all seven modern vision correction procedures. Get personalized recommendations from Dr. Lance Kugler, with expert answers tailored to your unique eyes.
Dr. Drew Dickson is a board-certified ophthalmologist who specializes in LASIK and other refractive surgery procedures. He completed his undergraduate studies at Liberty University before earning his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine. He then completed his ophthalmology residency at the Medical University of South Carolina Storm Eye Institute.
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Dickson is involved in research and has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Dickson is known for his compassionate bedside manner and commitment to providing his patients with personalized care. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and traveling.
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