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LASIK FAQs

1. What is LASIK?
LASIK treats nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. With the LASIK procedure, a thin layer of the cornea is lifted to create a "flap" that stays connected on one side. Next the Excimer laser sculpts the cornea with a cool, ultraviolet light. Finally, the "flap" is returned to its original position for a quick, natural recovery. This is the latest exciting alternative to glasses and contacts.


2. What is IntraLase®?
The IntraLase Method™ is a 100% blade-free technique used to perform the critical first step in the LASIK procedure: creating the corneal flap. The creation of the corneal flap prepares the eye for the second step of the LASIK procedure, where an excimer laser is used on the inner cornea to correct vision.

3. What is Advanced CustomVue™?
Advanced CustomVue procedures differ from traditional laser vision correction by using WaveScan™ technology to measure the unique imperfections in your vision - 25 times more precisely than standard methods. This creates a "map" of your eye, which is as unique as your fingerprint. Your surgeon then transfers this precise data directly to a VISX® laser, and uses it to custom-tailor your individualized treatment.

4. What is PRK?
PRK, Photorefractive Keratectomy, is laser surgery to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. An Excimer laser beam flattens the front of the cornea by removing small amounts of corneal tissue, avoiding the creation of a flap. The Excimer laser then reshapes the middle layers of the cornea. This differs from invasive RK surgery where a knife makes radial incisions around the center of the cornea.

5. What is nearsightedness?
Nearsightedness (myopia) occurs when the cornea of the eye has too much curvature. Light rays entering the eye are focused in front of the retina, resulting in blurred distant vision.

6. What is astigmatism?
Astigmatism can exist alone or in combination with nearsightedness or farsightedness. With this condition your eye becomes oval-shaped like a football instead of round, causing distortion when the eye tries to focus.

7. What is farsightedness?
Farsightedness (hyperopia) occurs when the cornea of the eye has too little curvature. Light rays entering the eye focus behind the retina and as a result, near vision is blurred.

8. Does it hurt?
No, the actual Excimer laser procedure does not hurt. Some patients do experience discomfort during the first 12 -24 hours after surgery and medication is available if you are uneasy about this possibility.

9. What are the side effects?
As with any treatment or operation there are risks, even though they are rare. The risks and benefits will be thoroughly explained to you by a professional staff member during your screening appointment.

10. How long will I be off work?
You can have the procedure and be back to your normal day-to-day activities very quickly. Most people return to work within one or two days.

11. Is it covered by insurance?
Generally it is not covered by insurance, but you need to check with your individual insurance plan.

12. Payment options?
The cost for LASIK vision correction includes all pre-op exams, all post-op exams and enhancements for the first year, the facility fee and the surgery fee. Financing options are available or we also accept MASTERCARD, VISA, DISCOVER, AMERICAN EXPRESS, CHECKS or CASH.

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