What is laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction reshapes the cornea of the eye to allow light to focus more precisely on the retina. Laser vision correction is a remarkable, reliable technology that uses laser light in a safe, outpatient procedure. Laser vision correction can:
Reduce or eliminate your need for glasses or contacts.
Improve nearsightedness
Lessen farsightedness
Relieve astigmatism
Types of laser vision correction
Laser vision correction is a collective term for various procedures which include photorefractive keratectomy and LASIK®.
Is laser vision correction right for me?
Most people with healthy eyes, who have not had a major change in their eyeglass prescription in the last 12 months, are good candidates for laser vision correction.
A free consultation with our board certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Andrew Spinak, will help you determine if laser vision correction is right for you.
How good will my vision be after laser vision correction?
After laser vision correction, most people can pass a driver’s license test without glasses. No procedure can guarantee 20/20 vision. A thorough eye exam is necessary to determine the degree of improvement that you can expect.
Will I need glasses after laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction is capable of reducing or eliminating the need for corrective lenses in many patients, including those with nearsightedness (myopia up to -14.00 diopters), farsightedness and astigmatism (irregularities in the surface of the eye.)
Some individuals will see a significant improvement after their laser vision but will still require corrective lenses for some activities.
If you are not a candidate for LASIK®, the Visian implantable contact lens may be a great option.
How long will the healing process take?
Many people can return to their normal activities the day after the procedure. Some patients choose to have the procedure late in the work week, so that they rest over the weekend before returning to work on Monday. However, complete healing and stabilization of the cornea may take up to three months.
To aid the healing, certain sports and activities, such as scuba diving or swimming, should be curtailed for the first month or so.
Is there a minimum age for laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction is for people who are at least 18 years old. This is because the eye is still developing in younger children.
Can people who have had cataract surgery get laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction has been done successfully on people who have previously had cataract surgery or corneal transplants. Only a thorough eye exam can determine if an individual patient is a good candidate for the procedure.
What are the risks associated with laser vision correction?
While Laser vision correction is considered very safe, it is a surgical procedure with certain associated risks. It is important for patients to be properly qualified for the procedure with a thorough eye exam.
It is also important for patients to carefully follow the pre and post-operative instructions they are given.
Some problems secondary to laser vision correction include:
Undercorrection
Overcorrection
Bleeding
Infection
Inflammatory conditions
Glare sensitivity
Halos
Dry eye
Healing abnormalities