- How long does it take to perform the
procedure?
- Which procedure is better for my
particular needs, PRK or LASIK?
- Is laser vision correction permanent?
- What are the long-term effects of
laser vision correction?
- When can I return to work and normal
activities?
- What can I expect my vision to be
after laser vision correction?
- Is laser vision correction painful?
- Are both eyes treated the same day?
How long does it take to perform the
procedure?
The actual laser time is typically less
than one minute per eye. A person will be in the laser room for only 15 to
30 minutes for the actual procedure. The total time spent in the laser
center is generally one to two hours. Most people are on their way 20 to
30 minutes following the procedure
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Which procedure is better for my
particular needs, PRK or LASIK?
Although PRK has been used successfully
in the past, LASIK is the most advanced laser vision correction procedure
and offers some distinct advantages over PRK. First, LASIK offers a more
comfortable recovery than PRK. Secondly, vision recovers much quicker with
LASIK, with most patients returning to work in one day. Finally,
medications are only required for 1 to 2 weeks following LASIK, whereas
PRK patients use medications for several months after the procedure.
Today, over 99% of the refractive procedures performed at Laser Eye
Centers are LASIK.
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Is laser vision correction permanent?
Yes, laser vision correction results in a
permanent change to the shape of the cornea. However, laser vision
correction will not prevent age related conditions such as presbyopia (the
need for reading glasses) or cataracts. These conditions would still be
treated in their normal manner.
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What are the long-term effects of laser
vision correction?
Laser vision correction has been
performed since 1987. Over two million procedures have been performed in
over 50 countries. The FDA clinical trials reveal 100% of patients with
mild to moderate myopia who have had laser vision correction achieved
significantly improved uncorrected vision.
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When can I return to work and normal
activities?
Most patients have functional vision
(drive a car and return to work) within one to three days of the
procedure. With LASIK, visual recovery is faster since the epithelium does
not have to heal as it does with PRK.
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What can I expect my vision to be after
laser vision correction?
In a recent study, 98% of patients
treated for nearsightedness and/or astigmatism achieved 20/40 vision or
better after one or more treatments. This means that they can drive
legally, play sports, and join police or fire departments without
depending on corrective eye wear. Healing responses vary from individual
to individual but most people reach stable vision within a few weeks after
either procedure, however, minor fluctuations in vision can last longer.
As with any surgical procedure, results cannot be guaranteed.
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Is laser vision correction painful?
There is usually no pain during the
procedure. Eye drops are used to numb the eyes. No needles or shots are
required. Some patients experience discomfort following the procedure;
however, medications will be prescribed to alleviate any discomfort during
this period. Light sensitivity, watery eyes, and lid swelling are common
for a few days after the procedure. With LASIK, post-operative discomfort
is minimal.
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Are both eyes treated the same day?
Most patients who undergo laser vision
correction have the procedure on both eyes the same day; however, the
procedure can be performed unilaterally as well.
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