Does laser vision correction hurt?
The actual procedure does not hurt as your eye is numbed by anesthetic drops. After PRK you may experience some discomfort for the first few days. With LASIK you may feel some discomfort for the first few hours. |
How long will the correction last?
Once your eye has stabilized, your correction is permanent. Any additional need for glasses after that would be the result of normal aging processes that would occur to anyone. |
Are there risks associated with LASIK?
The excimer laser has been proven to be safe and effective for the treatment of most prescriptions. Candy, our LASIK coordinator, will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have. |
If I have LASIK will I achieve 20/20 vision?
Most patients reach 20/20 or better vision. This means that a great majority of laser vision patients can drive, play sports and participate in normal daily activities without having to rely on glasses or contacts. |
How long does the procedure take?
The actual time the laser is treating the eyes is about 30 seconds per eye, depending on the amount of correction needed. The total procedure time for both eyes is approximately 20 minutes. |
When can I return to work and normal activities?
Most patients are able to return to work and normal functions the day following the procedure. Although vision may initially fluctuate a bit, it is functional within 24 hours of surgery. |
Will I feel discomfort during the procedure and afterwards?
During the procedure, the eye is numb so you will not have any discomfort. Some people have a minor scratchy sensation that is relieved by drops and usually goes away within a few hours. |
What can I expect following the procedure?
Following your LASIK procedure, drops are placed in the eye to begin the healing process. After your treatment you will need to go home and rest. Sleep is very helpful to the eye and ensures quicker healing following the procedure. Many patients drive themselves to their one-day post procedure visit. |
What is monovision?
For patients beyond 40 years of age who experience difficulty reading with their distance correction on, it is possible to treat one eye for near vision, and one eye for distance vision, decreasing the necessity for both near and distance glasses. If you are considering monovision, it is possible to try it first with contact lenses. |
What does laser surgery cost?
The cost of PRK and LASIK should be discussed with your eye doctor. The total fee at Infinity Laser Vision Associates includes the pre-operative evaluations, surgery, a post-operative kit containing eye drops and sunglasses, follow-up care for six months and any enhancement procedures needed within the first year. This does not include the cost of temporary glasses or contact lenses (if needed), and certain prescribed eye drops and medications. Financing is available. Please ask for information. |
What is the difference between PRK & LASIK?
Both of the procedures use the excimer laser to reshape the cornea to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The difference is that with PRK the laser is used on the surface of the eye and in LASIK the laser is used under a thin protective corneal flap. The long-term results are similar. With LASIK, however, visual recovery is faster and there is less post-operative discomfort. With PRK, post-operative drops are needed for several weeks. With LASIK, drops are only needed for 4-10 days.
In addition, you should be able to return to work in 1-2 days after LASIK, and drive within 1-3 days. With PRK, you should plan on taking at least 3 days off from work and drive within 3-7 days. |
