Who can receive Laser Vision Correction? |
| Millions of people already have undergone laser vision correction in the past decade and millions more are eligible for this life-changing procedure. The only initial restrictions for laser vision correction are age, health, and the extent of vision problems. Because vision changes through adolescence, only people 21 years of age and older may receive treatment. There is no maximum age limit for refractive surgery. People with health concerns such as eye disease, autoimmune disorders, ocular herpes, keratoconus, and pregnancy are usually not considered good candidates for laser vision correction.
Finally, a qualified patient for laser vision correction needs a stable refraction that falls within the acceptable treatable range of myopia or hyperopia with or without astigmatism. A comprehensive examination with our ophthalmologists who specialize in refractive surgery will determine if the candidate is eligible for treatment. |
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What are the results of Laser Vision Correction? |
| Many people who are considering laser vision correction have heard the scores of advertisements claiming that the procedure gives every patient 20/20 vision every time. Unfortunately, this “100 percent” statistic is impossible to achieve - yet the actual results of laser vision correction are very close to that figure in eligible candidates.
In recent studies monitored by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 95 percent of laser vision correction patients achieved at least 20/40 vision - allowing them to drive legally without corrective lenses in most states - and a full two thirds of patients came away from treatment with 20/20 vision!
Although not everyone achieved perfect vision, these results are considered a success since the goal of laser vision correction is to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses and contact lenses. In addition, even if 20/20 or better vision is attained, the use of corrective lenses may be needed in some situations. |
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What are the risks of Laser Vision Correction? |
| Just like any other form of surgery, laser vision correction involves risks. Although an ophthalmologist will examine every candidate to make sure the risks are minimized and fully explained before approving treatment, there are always potential risks despite how qualified a patient may be.
The doctor will be able to explain all of the risks and benefits involved in the treatment as well as the chances of those risks occurring in each individual patient.
Even if someone achieves 20/20 vision from laser vision correction, other complications can arise from treatment. Dry eyes, blurry vision, light sensitivity, glare, and haloes are among the potential side effects of treatment. Many of these effects are temporary in the postoperative healing period. Your ophthalmologist can address any specific questions you may have about the possible risks before treatment. |
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Is laser vision correction permanent? |
| Yes. Following an initial healing period of two to three months, the treatment lasts a lifetime.
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Will I need reading glasses after the treatment? |
| Generally, patients under 40 years of age read well without glasses following the treatment. Patients over 40 may need magnification for reading fine print. Presbyopia is the term that refers to the natural weakening of the focusing muscles that occurs in our early to mid 40s, causing us to need the magnification that reading glasses provide. The laser vision correction treatment does not correct or prevent presbyopia.
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How many times do I need to be seen following the treatment? |
| Most patients are usually seen the day following the treatment and then at least at one and three months following the treatment. Some patients require more visits. Remember, we are available 24 hours a day if you have any questions, concerns or need attention.
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How soon after the procedure can I bathe or shower? |
| You can bathe or shower the same day. It is important to avoid getting soap or water directly into your eyes. Also, avoid rubbing your eyes during the first month after surgery.
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When can I drive? |
| You should not drive the day of the procedure. After that, you may drive when you feel confident that your visual acuity and eye comfort allow you to drive safely.
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How soon can I use eye makeup? |
| You may resume wearing eye makeup one week after your treatment. We strongly recommend that you purchase new eye makeup, specifically mascara, to avoid potential infection.
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How soon after the treatment can I exercise? |
| Non-contact sports can be resumed as soon as you feel capable. Always use eye protection for racquet sports or rough sports where you risk being hit in the eye. You should not swim underwater for three weeks after your treatment.
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What kind of anesthesia is used? |
| Numbing eye drops are used. Sometimes a patient will receive an oral medication to help with relaxation. Don't worry…no needles or intravenous drugs are used.
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Can both eyes be treated at the same time? |
| In most cases, we can treat both eyes on the same day. However, you or your physician may decide to do one eye at a time.
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Does laser vision correction hurt? |
| The procedure itself is painless because we put a few numbing drops in your eyes. You will feel pressure on and around the eye during treatment. With LASIK, some patients experience a feeling of having “something in my eye” for a day or so after treatment.
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Can I watch the procedure being performed? |
| You will be awake and aware, but you will not be able to see any of the details of the treatment. You will see a number of lights, but the images will be blurred.
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Will I be in pain after the procedure? |
| Some patients experience a feeling of burning or scratchiness. Discomfort generally lasts from one to three hours following the treatment. Most people feel fine if they can take a nap soon after the treatment.
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What can I expect hours after treatment? |
| Laser vision correction is an outpatient procedure and does not require an overnight stay in a hospital after treatment. However, the doctor will suggest that you take a nap or relax in a dimly lit room after going home. Once the numbing eye drops wear off, you will experience an “eyelash” sensation, some scratchiness, tearing, and light sensitivity which is expected after treatment. Your vision might appear as if you are looking through a bowl of water for the first 12-24 hours.
It is very important that you refrain from rubbing or touching your eye. The cornea has a powerful bonding and healing ability, and within 24-48 hours after treatment, the feeling usually disappears. The discomfort may persist longer for PRK patients and somewhat shorter for LASIK patients. |
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How soon after surgery will I see well? |
| Each patient is different. The eye drop medications cause some blurring, but most patients notice a dramatic improvement even as they leave the office. More than 4 out of 5 patients can pass a driving test without glasses or contact lenses after the treatment.
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Will I need an eye patch after the procedure? |
| No, but clear, protective eye shields will be placed over your treated eye(s) following the treatment, and will be removed in our office the next morning. You will continue to wear these eye shields at bedtime for one week for protection.
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When can I go back to work? |
| Most patients are back to work full-time the day after treatment. An additional day or two is rarely required before returning to work. We recommend that you take it easy for a couple of days. Strenuous activity can traumatize the eye and affect healing.
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Will I need glasses or contact lenses after laser vision correction treatment? |
| The goal of refractive surgery is to reduce your dependence on glasses and/or contact lenses, but laser vision correction patients still may benefit from reading glasses or distance glasses when they desire perfect near or distance vision. A nominal percentage of patients wear a thin pair of prescription glasses for night driving.
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How much does Laser Vision Correction cost? Can I afford it? |
| Our practice policy is to arrange affordable monthly payments in order to help fit laser vision correction into your budget. Compared with the cost of glasses and contact lenses, laser vision correction can pay for itself in a few years time. Eyeglasses usually have to be replaced once a year or so and contact lenses, depending on the type, can be extremely costly. Speak with our Refractive Surgery Coordinator for more financing information. In most cases, you can qualify for payments as low as $99 per month.
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Your company may be able to help you pay for laser vision correction! |
| Many companies have implemented healthcare options that make elective surgeries such as laser vision correction an affordable alternative. These insurance programs are referred to as flex plans, cafeteria plans or alternative health plans. They designate a limited amount of pretax dollars to pay for an employee's predetermined elective surgery. Generally, employees must decide which surgery they are planning to have and declare this to their employer. You can contact your human resources office to find out when your company's enrollment period begins.
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