Q: What is LASIK?
A: LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis. This procedure will permanently change the shape of your cornea to help you reduce or eliminate your need for glasses or contacts. Blade-Free LASIK is the most accurate and safest technique for LASIK. This is the only type of LASIK performed by our Louisiana Eye & Laser Center surgeons.
Blade-free LASIK can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It is safe and effective and is one of the most commonly performed elective procedures in the country.
Q: How Does It Work?
A: During your LASIK procedure, your surgeon will reshape your cornea with a laser, allowing you to see clearly, generally without needing glasses or contacts afterwards. The refractive surgeons at Louisiana Eye & Laser Center use the VISX CustomVue™ procedure to perform all blade-free LASIK surgeries. This procedure utilizes WaveScan technology, which allows your LASIK surgeon to map the entire optical path of your eye. This results in a WavePrint® map, which creates a precise and detailed guide for your LASIK surgeon to best improve your vision.
Q: Is LASIK Right for Me?
A: Do glasses or contacts interfere with your lifestyle? Do you ever wonder what life would be like if you were free of the need for glasses or contacts? Then you may be a good candidate for LASIK.
LASIK candidates should:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have adequate corneal thickness
- Have a stable eyeglass or contact lens prescription
- Have an otherwise normal eye exam
- Exhibit normal corneal topography
Q: Is LASIK Safe?
A: Laser vision correction is one of the safest and most studied procedures. LASIK has been FDA-approved since 2009 and is so precise and safe that the US Military and NASA approve this procedure for pilots and astronauts.
Q: What Are the Side Effects Of LASIK?
A: As with any surgery, there are potential side effects. Please discuss your questions and concerns with your doctor prior to your LASIK procedure. The potential side effects of LASIK are:
- Glare
- Seeing halos around images
- Difficulty driving at night
- Fluctuating vision
- Dry eye
Q: What Do I Need to Do to Prepare for LASIK Surgery?
A: If you wear contacts, you will need to remove your lenses for at least two weeks prior to your surgery. Contact lenses can change the shape of your cornea, and in order for your LASIK surgeon to get the most precise measurement of your eye, they must be removed prior to surgery.
One to two days before your LASIK procedure, you will need to stop using face and eye creams, lotions, and/or moisturizers; make-up, and perfume.
You will also need to arrange transportation to and from the surgery center, as you will be unable to drive following the procedure.
Q: What Happens During the LASIK Procedure?
A: The actual LASIK procedure takes less than 30 minutes. Prior to beginning, a topical numbing drop will be placed in the eye to make the laser eye surgery virtually pain-free. The first step is for your surgeon to use the CustomVue™ wavefront technology to create a detailed map of your eye. The second step is to create a thin corneal flap using a laser. This is when your surgeon will make the necessary adjustments to your eye. Some patients may experience pressure or slight discomfort during this part of the procedure. The last step is to replace the corneal flap and the surgery is complete.
Q: How Much Does LASIK Cost?
A: At Louisiana Eye & Laser Center, we believe everyone deserves clear, crisp vision. We have made blade-free LASIK affordable by offering 0% interest and financing options that fit almost any budget. Please ask about your financing options during your free LASIK consultation.
