Laser Vision Correction

What is Laser Vision Correction?

Laser vision correction is a painless, outpatient procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea, thereby reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses or contacts. There are two forms: laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). Both procedures are incredibly safe and effective, with over 99% of individuals seeing 20/40 or better after surgery.

Benefits of Laser Vision Correction

LASIK and PRK can change your life. You can experience the freedom of seeing clearly when driving, playing sports, swimming, golfing, and doing everyday tasks like setting the alarm clock and brushing your teeth. Imagine:

No more hassling with smudged glasses or broken frames
No more fidgeting with contacts every morning and night
No more fumbling around the bathroom and shower

Differences Between LASIK and PRK

LASIK starts with creating a corneal flap that is moved for the laser treatment. The laser reshapes the cornea to alter its curvature and ultimately correct vision problems.

PRK skips the corneal flap, but uses the same laser treatment. Each procedure has advantages that your surgeon will discuss during your consultation visit.

Custom LASIK (iLASIK)

Custom LASIK, also called iLASIK, is a state-of-the-art LASIK technique that is 100% personalized to your eyes. The WaveScan system measures the way that light travels through your eye and creates a custom 3D wavefront map, essentially a “fingerprint” of your vision. This “fingerprint” and other advanced technology guide the laser to ensure that your treatment is as personalized and accurate as possible.

This personalization allows Custom LASIK to treat visual imperfection that cannot be corrected by glasses, contacts, or even conventional LASIK. This allows Custom LASIK to treat some patients that are not candidates for conventional LASIK.

LASIK SELF-TEST

Laser Vision Correction FAQ

LASIK and PRK are outpatient procedures that take roughly 10 minutes per eye. The patient is awake and requires only numbing eye drops to minimize potential discomfort. If requested, an oral sedative is available to reduce anxiety.

In the procedure room, the patient relaxes in a reclining chair as the surgeon positions the laser. A speculum is placed to keep the eyelids open. The eye is cleaned and numbed, then the procedure begins. The laser uses measurements that were taken during a pre-operative visit then confirmed before the procedure to ensure the highest accuracy. The patient hears the laser beep but does not feel any discomfort.

After both eyes have been treated, the patient is examined to ensure that everything went perfectly, then is given post-operative instructions and a protective shield to wear until the follow-up visit the next day.

Many patients are good candidates for LASIK or PRK. However, patients with very high refractive error (i.e. a very strong prescription) or certain ocular and medical conditions are not good candidates. Fortunately, other forms of refractive surgery, such as the Visian ICL, might be good options for these patients.

You can schedule a phone consultation with our patient counselor to determine if you are eligible for laser vision correction. Please have your eyeglass or contact prescription available when you call. If you are a candidate, then we will schedule a free consultation with one of our surgeons so that you can further discuss your options.

Over 99% of our patients achieve 20/20 vision or better without glasses or contacts. This will enable you to watch TV, play sports, and pass a driver’s license exam, as well as many other potential benefits that our counselor will be happy to review with you.

Yes, typically both eyes are treated at the same time.

You will be at the Laser Center for approximately two hours but will spend only 15 to 20 minutes in the procedure room. The actual laser treatment only takes 1 minute per eye.

The laser treatment is not painful. Some patients experience temporary discomfort after surgery, but most experience little or no discomfort. Your eyes may feel scratchy, gritty, or watery for a few days, but this resolves quickly and usually does not bother patients.

Many patients notice improved vision immediately after the procedure. The next day, most patients have excellent vision and do not need glasses or contacts. The vision often continues to improve gradually over the following week.

Laser vision correction permanently treats the pre-operative prescription. Rarely, the post-operative prescription can change over time. This often can be treated with a repeat treatment if needed. Laser vision correction cannot treat and does not prevent age-related conditions such as presbyopia (the need for reading glasses) or cataracts.

Most patients return to their normal activities the day after the procedure.

Most insurance companies consider laser vision correction an elective surgery, which usually is not covered. However, we encourage you to call your company to check.

We have various financing plans available and will work with you to develop a flexible payment plan to meet your requirements. Financial arrangements must be completed before the day of your procedure. All major credit cards are accepted.

Laser vision correction is very safe, but it is a surgery and therefore carries some risk. Safety is our top priority, and we have one of the best safety records in the industry. At your free consultation, your surgeon will review the potential risks and the ways that we minimize them. You should be comfortable asking any question so that you are making a fully informed decision.

Laser Vision Correction Doctors

Brad H. Feldman, MD

Laser Vision Correction

What is Laser Vision Correction?

Benefits of Laser Vision Correction

Differences Between LASIK and PRK

Custom LASIK (iLASIK)

Laser Vision Correction FAQ

Laser Vision Correction Doctors

Four Convenient Locations

South Broad Street

Allegheny Ave

Wills eye Hospital

Wills Northeast Consultation Office

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