What is LASIK Laser Vision Correction?

LASIK is an outpatient procedure that treats nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It uses a device called a microkeratome to raise a thin flap in the cornea, after which the cool excimer laser is used to gently reshape the cornea. The flap is then replaced without stitches.

How does LASIK differ from PRK?

With PRK or Photorefractive Keratectomy, the laser treatment is performed directly on the surface of the cornea, rather than underneath a flap. Some patients prefer this procedure because there there is no cutting of the cornea. However, this produces a scratch on the surface of the cornea, which takes several days to heal. While it is healing, there may be some discomfort and fluctuation of vision. Other disadvantages of PRK include corneal haze, a lengthy recovery, the need to do one eye at a time, a higher chance of regression and the need for the use of steroid eye drops for up to six months -- something that may increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma.

What are the advantages of LASIK?

Since the LASIK procedure allows the laser treatment to be performed underneath a corneal flap, rather than on the surface of the cornea, there is no scratch on the surface of the cornea at the end of the procedure. This allows this procedure to be relatively painless, to have a rapid recovery of vision, minimal post-operative medication, and less incidence of post-operative corneal haze or regression.

How do I know if I am a candidate for LASIK Laser Vision Correction?

Good candidates for Laser Vision Correction are people who want to minimize their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. The amount of correction needed, as well as your lifestyle are all additional important factors. You must be over 18 years of age, healthy, and free from any eye disease. If you are pregnant, or your glasses prescription is not stable, you are not a candidate for laser vision correction.

You are not a good candidate is you suffer from corneal diseases or collagen vascular diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or if you expect that you will never have to wear glasses again. People who are 40 or older will often need to use reading correction after Laser Vision Correction.

Our doctors would be happy to perform a complimentary LASIK evaluation for you. This evaluation includes a thorough eye examination using our state-of-the-art equipment in order find even subtle abnormalities which may affect your eligibility for the procedure. We will personally review all of your options with you and answer all of your questions. This evaluation will help you make the best decision for you and help our doctors customize the treatment just for you

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure takes approximately 5 minutes per eye.

How long does the correction last?

The laser treatment in PRK or LASIK produces a permanent change in the shape of the cornea. However, this does not mean that there may not be changes in your eyes over time. Should there be a return of some nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism in the years following your laser treatment, additional laser treatments, called enhancements, can often be performed.

What are the advantages of the Flying Spot Laser?

The Flying Spot Laser has the ability to decrease glare and halos after the procedure by increasing the diameter of treatment zone. This is particularly important for people with large pupils, or astigmatism. In addition, because of its use of sophisticated tracking technology which tracks the eye at 4,000 times per second, patient eye movement is eliminated as a factor in successful treatments.

How soon after LASIK will I achieve my best corrected vision?

Generally patients will see better, although blurry, immediately following the procedure. Most of our patients are able to drive, return to work and resume most of their normal daily activities the very next day.

What kind of follow-up care is needed after LASIK Laser Vision Correction?

Our doctors closely monitor the healing process in order to assure optimal visual improvement. Unlike PRK, patients do not need to wear a bandage or a contact lens after LASIK. Instead, we recommend that you wear a clear protective shield home and while you sleep that evening. Patients use medicated eye drops for approximately 1 week following the procedure, and continue with lubricating drops for approximately 1-2 months.

Is Laser Vision Correction covered by my insurance?

Laser Vision Correction is considered an elective procedure and is therefore usually not covered by insurance companies. However, there are a few insurance companies who do cover the procedure. We would be happy to check with your insurance company at the time of your evaluation.