LASIK FAQs
- Does LASIK hurt?
- Can you actually feel or see the
procedure while it is being performed?
- Can I have both of my eyes done at
the same time?
- Is LASIK
right for me? How do I know if I am a candidate?
- How often am I seen after the surgery?
- Do I have to discontinue wearing
contact lenses prior to surgery?
- What can I expect after LASIK?
- Will I still need to wear glasses
or contact lenses following LASIK?
- Can I drive
myself home following LASIK?
- Why are there
so many varied prices for LASIK?
- I am interested in LASIK, what
do I do next?
1. Does LASIK hurt?
Your eyes are completely numb during the procedure so you are very comfortable.
LASIK requires less healing time, so there is minimal discomfort. The
majority of our patients tell us that their eyes just felt tired and
slightly dry after the procedure.
Back to top
2.Can you actually feel or see the procedure
while it is being performed?
With any refractive procedure, the patient's eye is numbed with anesthetic
drops. The surgeon uses a lid holder that cups your upper and lower
eyelid to prevent blinking. Patients are asked to stare at a blinking
light, but the laser itself is clear and cannot be seen. The laser does
produce a noise similar to a loud clap.
Back to top
3. Can I have both of my eyes done at the same
time?
Most LASIK patients have both eyes done simultaneously because of the
quick visual recovery.
Back to top
4. Is LASIK right for me? How do I know
if I am a candidate?
LASIK is most effective for those over 18 years old who have healthy
corneas. If you have had significant increase in your prescription over
the last year, if you have certain medical conditions, or if you are
pregnant, LASIK may not be right for you. Call Southwestern Eye Center's
LASIK Coordinators at 1-800-598-5444 for a free consultation to determine
if you are a candidate.
Back to top
5. How often am I seen after surgery?
Patients are seen one day, one week, one month, three months, and six
months post-operatively, or as needed up to one year.
Back to top
6. Do I have to discontinue wearing contact
lenses prior to surgery?
Soft contact lens wearers should discontinue wearing lenses 7 days prior
to their initial exam and surgery. Gas permeable and hard lens wearers
must discontinue use for 3 weeks prior to their initial exam and surgery.
Back to top
7. What can I expect after LASIK?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort following LASIK and are
advised to sleep to assist with healing. After LASIK, most patients
are able to resume normal activities quickly. In order to help your
eyes heal, a few simple restrictions are recommended:
• No eye
rubbing
• No eye
make-up for 5 days after the procedure
• No underwater
swimming for 10 days
• Eye protection
must be worn if you participate in contact sports
Back to top
8. Will I still need to wear glasses or contact
lenses following LASIK?
LASIK does not guarantee perfect vision, but most people will see much
better without contacts or glasses than they did before surgery. Some
patients will still need or want to wear corrective lenses for their
own comfort, even though they may be able to see adequately without
them. Patients over 40 will more than likely need glasses for seeing
up close and when seeing details, like with sewing or reading.
Back to top
9. Can I drive myself home following refractive
surgery?
No. It is mandatory to have a designated driver on the day that you
have the surgery. Most patients are able to drive the day after surgery.
Back to top
10.Why are there so many varied prices for
LASIK?
When you begin your research into providers of LASIK surgery remember
that, like most things, you get what you pay for. Extremely low prices
usually means quality is compromised some where. In many cases, the
advertised price will not apply to your prescription. Low price means
high volume. Discount centers like to see many people through their
doors daily in order to make a profit. Low prices encourage cutting
economic corners on equipment, staff, etc. At Southwestern Eye Center
our LASIK doctors represent leadership in quality eye care. Everyone
is treated as unique individuals, with personal, one to one consultations,
pre-operative and post operative exams. There are no hidden cost or
fees with your procedure. All of your initial testing and post-operative
care, as well as any needed enhancements, are included for one full
year. Your confidence and comfort is our number one priority.
Back to top
11. I am interested in refractive surgery.
What do I do next?
If you are interested in LASIK, your next step should be to contact
Southwestern Eye Center's LASIK Counselors at 1-800-598-5444 for a free
consultation.
Back to top
|
