Frequently Asked Questions
 Is the LASIK procedure painful?
No. Several anesthetic drops are given prior to the procedure to eliminate pain and discomfort
What about after surgery?
With LASIK, there is virtually no pain. There is a foreign body sensation like having a tiny spec of something in your eye or a dried contact lens for twelve to twenty-four hours. With PRK there can be slight discomfort lasting for several days. A bandage soft contact lens is applied to reduce discomfort and an analgesic eye drop is given, if needed, for pain. Pain medications are typically prescribed for this procedure.
How long will it take to recover from LASIK? With PRK?
With LASIK, it takes most patients less than twenty-four hours to gain functional visual recovery and return to work. Nearly all LASIK patients report being able to see better immediately after surgery. PRK requires three to five days of recovery (occasionally longer depending upon original prescription) with a gradual improvement in vision over that time.
What are Risks and Possible Complications?
Some people experience poor night vision after LASIK. surgery may result in under correction or overcorrection, which can often be improved with a second surgery. More rare and serious complications include a dislocated flap, epithelial ingrowth and inflammation underneath flap. Most complications can be managed without any loss of vision. Permanent vision loss is very rare.
Could I do something during procedure to ruin results?
Blinking of eye is prevented by an eyelid speculum that holds eye open. During procedure, patient's responsibility is to be very still during creation of flap with microkeratome and to focus on a red blinking light in microscope for laser part of treatment. Throughout the procedure the physician is observing proper alignment using the microscope. In case of slightest misalignment, procedure is paused and alignment is corrected prior to procedure continuing.
If the patient were to move suddenly during creation of the corneal flap, an irregular flap or tissue cap could be created that would result in the discontinuance of the laser portion of the procedure. In this case, the eye would be given time to heal over the course of a few months and then the procedure could be attempted again.
Does insurance cover LASIK or PRK procedure?
In most cases, insurance does not cover LASIK or PRK procedure. You should expect to pay for your procedure in full at time of surgery. Any reimbursement by insurance company will be made directly to you. Excellent financing options are available.
When can I see clearly?
Your vision is usually dramatically improved within the first twenty-tour hours. It is normal for vision to fluctuate from day to day, especially for the first couple of weeks. How quickly your vision clears depends, sometimes on the severity of your original prescription. Normally it takes six to eight weeks for your vision to stabilize completely.
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