What is LASIK?
LASIK, stands for LASER IN-SITU KERATOMILEUSIS. It is a form of laser surgery that is capable of correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure uses a computer controlled excimer laser to reshape the cornea to correct your vision. The laser reshaping is done under a protective flap of tissue to promote a very rapid recovery of vision and minimize discomfort.

How do I know if I am a candidate for the FDA approved procedure LASIK?

Patient criteria for LASIK:

• Minimum age 18
   
• No systemic disease affecting outcome
   
• Must have a healthy eye
   
• Stable refraction
   
• Realistic expectations
   
• In order to determine if you are eligible for laser surgery, you must have a consultation. Please contact us if you have questions or wish to schedule an appointment.

What is done at a consultation?
A complete eye examination and specialized computer measurement of the shape of your cornea is performed. The ophthalmologist reviews this information in light of your visual needs for work and leisure and provides you with options and recommendations for refractive surgery. In order for your cornea to return to its natural shape by the time of this examination, you must leave your soft contact lenses out for 2 week and gas permeable (hard) lenses out for 4 weeks prior to your consultation.

How long does the procedure take?
About 10 minutes per eye.

Does it hurt?
NO! Anesthetic drops usually allow the operation to be performed without pain. Afterwards, the eye is a bit scratchy, but patients typically do not require any pain medications and are often able return to work the day following the procedure.

What are the restrictions following surgery?
You must wear a protective shield to bed for the first week. You should not swim for one week after surgery, although bathing and showering is fine. No eye makeup should be applied for 7 days. All other activities—including exercise—may be resumed on the first day following surgery.

When can I go back to work?
The day after the procedure, as your vision permits.

Can the procedure be performed on both eyes at once?
YES! Many patients choose this options, as it is far more convenient.

How long is follow-up needed?
Follow up checks are required at one day, 1 week, 3, 6, and 12 months. These examinations are included in the charge for the procedure.

What are my chances of not wearing glasses after the procedure?
This will depend on a number of factors, including your refractive error, your visual needs, and even your personality. It is important to understand that LASIK does not eliminate the need for reading glasses as one grows older.

When will my vision stabilize?
After LASIK, vision usually stabilizes very quickly. Our results thus far indicate that there is little or no change after the two week postoperative examination. Patients with large refractive errors may take up to six weeks or more to stabilize.

What is the % of patients that need enhancements?
Based on our experience so far, you have about a 8% chance of needing an enhancement. This varies to a 25 to 30% enhancement rate with RK. The likelihood of needing an enhancement is sometimes dependent on the degree of refractive error. More highly myopic eyes are more likely to need an enhancement.

What side effects are typical?
Your vision will fluctuate during the few days following the surgery. You may notice some glare around lights at night. You will notice a dryness to the eyes also. rarely a patient may have persistence of one or more of these effects. These effects are usually worse during the first two weeks after surgery and then slowly disappear.

What are the risks of surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, LASIK carries some risk of complications. Risks include an infection which could damage your cornea and result in loss of vision, although this is extremely unlikely. As part of your evaluation for the procedure, we will give you an informed consent document which details potential risks and complications of surgery.

If necessary, can I wear contact lenses after LASIK?
These procedures do not modify the cornea in a way that would prevent contact lens wear. However, many patients elect to have refractive surgery because they were unable to wear contact lenses. In this case, you can expect to have problems after the surgery just like you did before it.

Are the effects of LASIK permanent?
YES! Long term studies have shown for 5 years and beyond.