How do I know if I'm a candidate for Laser Vision Correction?

We believe it is important to be fully informed, to have realistic expectations and to have all of your questions about LASIK eye surgery answered honestly and directly.  We suggest that you come in for a detailed consultation with our physicians and staff.

How long do I have to keep my contacts out before my LASIK surgery?

If you are wearing soft contacts, they need to be left out for at least fourteen days before your evaluation exam and your LASIK surgery.  If you are wearing hard or gas permeable contact lenses they need to be out for at least three weeks prior to your exam and surgery.

How long will I be out of work after having LASIK?

It depends on your occupation.  Certain jobs that require intense clarity of vision may be difficult to perform for one or two days.  Most patients can return to work the next day, assuming their vision is adequate for their job.

Does Refractive Laser Surgery hurt?

There is no pain throughout the procedure because medication is administered to make you feel comfortable and relaxed. You'll be awake throughout the surgery. After laser eye surgery, most patients experience little or no discomfort. Your eyes may feel scratchy, gritty, or watery. These symptoms are temporary and are not a problem for most patients.

What if I move my eye during the procedure?

The laser has eye tracking technology so the laser can detect eye movement and automatically shut down. Our surgeon is also observing and tracking fine eye movements through a microscope during the procedure.  The technology has safeguards built into it that will allow the physician to resume treatment to the appropriate area of the cornea once the eye is re-aligned.

How long will the procedure actually take?

You will be at the Laser Center for approximately 90 minutes.  The laser surgery with the surgeon lasts about 15-20 minutes.  The actual laser treatment time is often less than one minute. 

Can What is CustomVue LASIK?

CustomVue LASIK is a state of the art diagnostic system that enables your surgeon to "custom design" your treatment by capturing a "fingerprint" map of YOUR cornea.

What can I expect after surgery?

Patients may experience some mild discomfort and/or blurred vision for a few hours after surgery. Therefore you may not drive home after undergoing the procedure and should not plan to drive for twenty-four hours. If you are under the age of 40, you should not have any problems seeing up close after surgery.  People in their middle to late 40s naturally have trouble seeing up close and need to use readers to read small print.  This will happen to you even if you do not have eye laser surgery.  Patients over the age of 50 may also have more difficulty with arm length or intermediate range vision. Options to correct for your near vision will be discussed during your examination.

What, if any, side effects occur?

All potential risks and benefits of laser vision correction will be thoroughly reviewed with you prior to the procedure. Although complications and side effects have a low incidence, some include glare, halos, and under or over-correction.

Is LASIK covered by insurance?

LASIK is becoming increasingly popular and more insurance companies are covering the procedure. Please check with your individual insurance company.

What is the price for LASIK and CustomVue LASIK?

Contact our office for current pricing and more information. A member of our staff will be happy to assist you.

Is there an alternative if I am not a LASIK candidate?

YES!! Patients who were previously told that their perscription was "too high" or that their corneas were "too thin" for LASIK may be candidates for the VERISYSE lens. This procedure is available at Eye Centers of Ohio.