LASIK FAQ

AM I A LASIK CANDIDATE?

First of all, you must be 18 years old or older. Then, you’ll need an evaluation by the LASIK surgeon to make sure you’ve got healthy eyes, free of disease or abnormalities. Certain other conditions will also preclude you from having LASIK, but a quick Q&A with your LASIK surgeon will cover all these bases. And the in-office evaluation is free at the Laser Eye Center.

WHAT HAPPENS ON THE DAY OF SURGERY?

Feeling nervous or excited before your surgery is normal and natural, so expect that. Refrain from perfumes and hair products containing alcohol on surgery day. Also, arrange for a ride home and wear comfortable lint free clothing. Avoid alcohol 24 hours before and 48 hours after the LASIK procedure. Alcohol tends to dehydrate eye tissue and can prolong the healing process.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING THE LASIK SUGERY?

First, you’ll get eye drops as an anesthetic. Then, your LASIK surgeon, using the custom excimer laser system, places a suction ring on your eye to elevate the pressure in the eye. Vision goes black as the pressure increases. The microkeratome is then moved along the track of the suction ring, cutting a circular corneal flap. The flap is lifted by the surgeon after the suction is released, and vision will return. There’s little or no discomfort and the whole procedure usually takes less than 15 minutes. Best of all, the results are immediate.

WHY BLADE FREE INTRALASE®?

Not only do patients prefer the Intralase® blade-free LASIK experience, it’s been clinically proven that the Intralase blade-free LASIK method provides more patients with 20/20 vision than mechanical methods. The Intralase method utilizes a laser to cut the corneal flap instead of the microkeratome. The Intralase ® is one hundred percent more accurate—and that means a lot of people who weren’t eligible LASIK candidates before—may be eligible now!

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE LASIK PROCEDURE?

You’ll need to wear the sunglasses provided. Your eyes will be light sensitive and a bit irritated. This usually diminishes within 24 hours. An appointment will be scheduled for you on the day after your LASIK procedure. You’ll also have two/three week, three-month and six-month post operative exams.

WHEN CAN I RESUME ACTIVITIES?

Click here to download a recommended activity schedule that can be used as a guide after lasik surgery.

WHAT IF I’M NOT A LASIK CANDIDATE?

People who are severely nearsighted who aren’t LASIK candidates, may opt for an intra-ocular lens implant. IOL provides “precision vision”, a high-tech yet simple procedure that can improve your vision, and your life. The IOL may improve your distance vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.