As a highly experienced ophthalmologist with over 25 years of practice, I have performed countless LASIK procedures and helped patients navigate the entire process. The following frequently asked questions (FAQs) about cataract surgery are based on my experience and best practices, guidelines, and recommendations from reputable sources.
Here are the most common questions we see from our patients about the process before surgery LASIK surgery.
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Laser vision correction is a procedure that involves using a laser to reshape the cornea - the surface of the eye - in order to enhance visual acuity. This procedure can be used to address conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. By opting for laser vision correction, patients can enjoy improved vision that may eliminate the need for glasses or contacts, enhance their performance with daily activities, and save them time. At CEI, we offer two types of laser vision correction: iLASIK and PRK.
: LASIK has been approved by the FDA since 1999 and has been performed millions of times worldwide. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated that LASIK is a safe and effective procedure for eligible candidates.
The main difference between LASIK and iLASIK lies in the way the corneal flap is created during the surgery. In traditional LASIK, a microkeratome (a mechanical cutting tool) is used to create a thin flap on the cornea, while in iLASIK, a femtosecond laser is used to create a precise flap. The use of the femtosecond laser in iLASIK offers several advantages over traditional LASIK, such as increased safety, accuracy, and a faster recovery time.
LASIK (IntraLase LASIK) offers several advantages over traditional LASIK:
Increased safety: In iLASIK, a femtosecond laser is used to create a precise flap in the cornea, which reduces the risk of complications that may arise with the use of a mechanical cutting tool in traditional LASIK.
Increased accuracy: The use of the femtosecond laser in LASIK results in a more precise flap and amore accurate reshaping of the cornea, which can improve the quality of vision.
At the Conlon Eye Institute, we use a comprehensive evaluation process to determine if a patient is a good candidate for LASIK surgery. This evaluation typically includes several tests to assess the patient's eye health, prescription stability, and other factors that may impact their eligibility for the procedure. The consultation process to see if you are a candidate is completely free of charge.
To be considered a good candidate for LASIK surgery, the patient must have healthy eyes, a stableprescription, and realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery. Additionally, we look for patientswho are over 18 years old, have a stable prescription for at least one year, and do not have any underlyingmedical conditions that may affect their eye health.
The process involves several tests to assess the patient's eye health and prescription stability. These tests may include a comprehensive eye exam, corneal mapping, and measurement of pupil size and corneal thickness. Additionally, we will review the patient's medical history and discuss any concerns they may have about the surgery.
Yes, it is recommended that you avoid wearing contact lenses before your consultation and treatment appointments to ensure the best possible outcome for your laser eye surgery. Contact lenses can alter the shape of the cornea, affecting your eye's curvature and prescription.
Remove Soft Contact Lenses 24-48 hours prior to consultation
Remove Hard Contact Lenses 4-6 weeks prior to consultation
After your consultation, you can resume wearing your contact lenses until the day before your surgery if youwear soft lenses, or 7 days before surgery if you wear hard lenses.
However, some individuals may require a longer period to adjust, and our team will advise you accordingly. It is important to follow our advice, even if it seems insignificant, as it can help us achieve the best outcome. Failure to do so may require rescheduling your surgery if your cornea is still adjusting at your appointment.
The potential risks and complications of LASIK surgery include dry eye, glare, halos, under-correction, overcorrection, regression, flap complications, infection, and loss of vision
The success rate of LASIK surgery is high, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better after the procedure. However, the results can vary depending on factors such as the severity of your refractive error, the stability of your prescription, and the skill of your surgeon
Typically, patients who undergo LASIK surgery can resume driving after their 1-day post-operative visit with Dr. Conlon. However, patients who undergo PRK may need to wait up to a week before driving again.
LASIK patients can usually return to work on the following Monday after having the procedure on Friday. On the other hand, PRK patients are advised to plan for a week off work after their surgery, as recommended by Dr. Conlon.
The data reveals a high patient satisfaction rate of up to 98%, with over 90% of patients achieving 20/20vision or better. However, some patients may require or prefer corrective lenses for specific activities such as night driving or reading.
It is strongly recommended that patients wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays following laser vision correction.
Here are the most common questions we see from our patients about the process during surgery LASIK surgery.
The LASIK procedure itself takes only about 10-15 minutes per eye, but you should plan to spend a few hours at the LASIK center on the day of your surgery to complete the necessary pre-and post-operative exams.
During LASIK surgery, your surgeon will numb your eyes with anesthetic drops and create a thin corneal flap. They will then use a laser to reshape the underlying cornea to correct your refractive error. After the cornea is reshaped, the flap is replaced and allowed to heal naturally
Yes, you will be awake during the LASIK procedure, but you will be given numbing drops to minimize any discomfort.
Most patients do not experience any pain during LASIK surgery, but you may feel a slight pressure or discomfort. Your surgeon will provide you with numbing drops to minimize any discomfort.
The LASIK procedure itself takes only about 10-15 minutes per eye.
Traditional LASIK uses a microkeratome blade to create the corneal flap, while bladeless LASIK uses a femtosecond laser to create a more precise and customizable flap.
The surgeon creates the corneal flap using either a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. The choice of instrument depends on the surgeon's preference and the patient's individual needs.
Your surgeon will use a special instrument called a lid speculum to keep your eyelids open during the procedure, reducing the chance of blinking. However, if you do blink, the laser will automatically shut off and your surgeon will resume the procedure once you are ready
Yes, LASIK can be performed on both eyes at the same time, but your surgeon will evaluate your individual needs and preferences to determine if this is the best option for you.
Eye tracking is used to ensure that the laser is accurately and precisely targeting the correct areas of the cornea during LASIK surgery. The tracking system monitors the movement of your eye and adjusts the laser in real-time to compensate for any small movements.
LASIK surgery cannot be completely reversed, but in some cases, an enhancement procedure may beperformed to further correct the vision.
Here are the most common questions we see from our patients about the process after surgery LASIK surgery.
You may experience some discomfort, tearing, and blurred vision immediately after LASIK surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to manage these symptoms and what to expect in the hours and days following the procedure.
There are several reasons. Firstly, if you have taken Ativan or any other anti-anxiety medication before the surgery, it may impair your ability to drive. Secondly, although you may feel clear after the surgery, some blurriness is common. Thirdly, the numbing eye drops used during the surgery will wear off soon after, leaving your eyes sensitive and potentially affecting your vision. You may be light sensitive and experience watering and tearing of the eyes. To ensure your safety and comfort, it is important to have a driver accompany you to and from your LASIK surgery appointment.
You can usually resume driving after seeing Dr. Conlon at your 1-day post-op visit. With PRK you may not drive for 1 week.
No, you don't need to contact SGI. Dr. Conlon or your optometrist will send a letter to SGI requesting the removal of the restriction once your vision meets the legal requirements to drive without corrective lenses. This typically happens after the one-week post-operative appointment.
It is recommended to avoid rubbing your eyes for at least one week after LASIK surgery to prevent any potential damage.
During the first week following LASIK surgery, it is important to be cautious when showering or bathing to avoid getting water in your eyes. While water itself will not cause damage to your eyes, it may cause you to rub them, which should be avoided.
To remove any dried crystals on your lashes after LASIK surgery, place a hot, wet cloth directly on your lids for one minute and then lift it smoothly off. Do not rub your eyes.
If you accidentally rub your eye and experience blurry vision, pain, or watering, contact your optometrist immediately for an examination. If there is any damage, Dr. Conlon will be notified and appropriate measures will be taken.
Yes, if your eyes feel comfortable. Make sure you keep your eyes well-lubricated.
You should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting (25 pounds) for at least a week after LASIK surgery to avoid any strain on your eyes. Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on when it is safe to resume exercise.
You should avoid wearing eye makeup for at least a week after LASIK surgery to avoid any potential irritation or infection.
If the suction ring used during the surgery caused a bruise on the white part of your eye, it will heal as a normal bruise does. Your optometrist will examine it during your one-week post-operative visit to ensure it is healing properly.
These activities decrease blinking, which can dry out the front surface of the eye and delay the healing process. It is important to use lubricating drops frequently during the first week and to take breaks from prolonged computer or reading sessions.
It can take several months for your eyes to fully heal after LASIK surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for your eyes during the healing process.
Yes, you will need to use eye drops for several weeks after LASIK surgery to help prevent infection and reduce dryness
It can take several weeks to a few months for your vision to stabilize after LASIK surgery. Your surgeon will monitor your progress through follow-up appointments.
Yes, it is normal to experience vision fluctuations in the days and weeks following LASIK surgery as your eyes heal and adjust to the new correction.
Your post-operative follow-up appointment will be scheduled in the morning, the day after your LASIK or PRK surgery.
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