Lasik

LASIK or laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis uses the accuracy and precision of the Excimer laser to alter the shape of the cornea in an attempt to change the way the light is focused or refracted by the eye, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lens.

	STEP 1: An instrument called a microkeratome allows the surgeon to make a thin flap in the corneal tissue. The flap is then folded back.
	STEP 2: The Excimer laser reshapes the cornea with cool or non-thermal laser light beams, which is flattening the cornea to treat nearsightedness, steeper to treat farsightedness, and/or more spherical to correct astigmatism. The high-energy photons from the laser break the molecular bonds a few layers at a time.
	STEP 3: The corneal flap is then placed back in original position where it bonds without the need for stitches.

Lasik: Frequently Asked Questions

01 What is LASIK?

LASIK is the combination of surgical and laser procedures used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and/or astigmatism. A small flap is made on the surface of the cornea using an instrument called a microkeratome. The excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea under the flap. The corneal flap is then put back into place and self-seals in minutes.

02 What type of Excimer Laser is used?

Advanced Vision Care performs laser vision correction procedures using the FDA approved VISX Star excimer laser. This a non-thermal, cool laser beam, which is a smooth scanning laser. For more information on the VISX Star please visit their website at WWW.VISX.COM.

03 How do I choose the right surgeon to perform LASIK?

It is important to research your physician's background and experience. The surgeon should be board certified and it is recommended that they sub-specialize in cornea and related diseases. You should not consider a doctor who practiced only LASIK surgery. He or she should be up to date on the newest techniques and lasers available. You should be cautious, if the surgeon is selling you the procedure itself instead of determining whether or not you are a good candidate. Finally, if the physician has published extensively in medical journals, this is usually an indication of commitment to quality care.

04 What are the risks of having the LASIK procedure?

The common side effects of having the procedure done are irritation, burning, visual fluctuation and some light sensitivity for 1-2 weeks following the procedure. Some patients experience nighttime glare, halos and/or starburst for a few weeks to several months, but these usually diminish over time as the eye heals. Although rare, infections, flap related problems, irregular corneal healing, and irregular astigmatism can occur, but an experienced surgeon will know how to treat these conditions.

05 How long does the procedure take?

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis using topical or "eye drop" anesthetic. Although the actual laser procedure may only take a few minutes, the overall surgery time including preparation is 10-15 minutes per eye.

06 Is the procedure painful?

Because the cornea is easily numbed with topical anesthetic, patients report little, if any, discomfort both during and after the procedure.

07 How soon can I return to work following LASIK?

Many patients see marked improvement in their vision within hours and most return to work and a normal lifestyle within 1-3 days, with minor restrictions.

08 Are there restrictions after surgery?

Patients should avoid getting contaminated water in their eyes; this includes swimming pools, spas, lakes, and the ocean for 1 week. When showering or taking baths, patients should keep their eyes closed in order to avoid the soap and dirty water. Exercise is fine, but keep sweat from entering your eyes for 5 days. Do Not Rub the eyes vigorously for 2 weeks following LASIK.

FEMALES: You should avoid applying eye make-up for 1 week after the LASIK procedure.

09 How soon am I able to drive?

You may resume driving when you are confident that your vision is adequate and safe. This usually occurs in 1-3 days for most patients.

10 Are the results permanent?

Laser Vision Correction LASIK or PRK is considered to be a permanent procedure. However this will not prevent you from developing age-related eye conditions such as cataract or the need for reading glasses due to the loss of focusing power in your natural lens, known as presbyopia.