What Is Nearsightedness?
Nearsightedness (myopia) is a condition where the light rays entering the eye focus in front of the retina instead of directly on the retina. This occurs because the cornea, or front of the eye, is too steeply curved, or the eye itself is too long. A patient with myopia can see near objects clearly, while distant objects are blurry or even indistinguishable.

What Is Farsightedness?
Farsightedness (hyperopia) is a condition where the light rays entering the eye focus in back of the retina instead of directly on the retina. This occurs because the cornea, or front of the eye, is too flat or the eye itself is too short. A farsighted patient’s vision is often blurry in the distance, and even worse up close.

What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a condition caused by an uneven curvature of the cornea. This irregular steepening warps the light rays entering the eye, making it difficult for these patients to focus on any object, either up close or in the distance.

What Is PRK?
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is laser surgery to correct nearsightedness (myopia). An Excimer laser beam is used to flatten the cornea. The laser beam uses cool rays to remove small amounts of tissue from the front of the cornea.

What Is LASIK?
Lasik (Laser in-situ Keratomileusis) is similar to PRK. During Lasik, an instrument called a microkeratome is used to gently lift and fold back a thin flap of tissue across the outer layer of the eye, to expose the cornea. The Excimer laser is then used to reshape the cornea. This laser is extremely accurate and can remove a quarter of a micron of tissue at a time. (A human hair is approximately 50 microns thick). After the laser is used, the flap is folded back into position and reseals itself, no sutures needed. The procedure itself takes about 15 minutes.

Is Refractive Surgery Covered By Insurance?
Most insurance companies consider refractive surgery elective in nature and do not cover these procedures. However, you need to check with your individual insurance company. We accept cash, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa, and have attractive financing plans available. www.feeplan.com

Am I Eligible For Refractive Surgery?
This depends on your age, your prescription and the general health of your eyes. Your prescription must have been stable for the past 12 months and you must be 18 years of age or older. There is no upper age limit for these surgeries, even seniors may be eligible.

Does The Surgery Hurt?
No, the actual procedure does not hurt, anesthetic drops are administered before the surgery begins. Some patients do experience discomfort during the first 12 to 36 hours after the procedure. Most patients describe the feeling as a lash in the eye or something under a contact lens. Medications are available if you are concerned about this possibility.

Are There Any Restrictions After Surgery?
There are no restrictions on daily activities. For the first day or two after surgery we suggest rest and relaxation. For the first three days after surgery, you must not get anything in your eyes, including soap and water. Swimming and eye makeup are also prohibited for two weeks following surgery. When your vision clears you may drive and you can return to work in one to three days.

What Are The Side Effects?
As with any treatment or surgery there are risks, even though they are rare. The risks and benefits will be thoroughly explained to you by a professional staff member during your screening appointment.

Does Refractive Surgery Really Work?
Yes. Refractive procedures are being done all around the world. Over 90% of people who have had one of these procedures obtain normal vision, and many others are happy to lessen their dependence on glasses and contact lenses.

What Is An Enhancement?
An enhancement is a repeat of the surgical procedure which is occasionally done when the eye has been under corrected. The necessity for an enhancement procedure is determined when the patient’s post-operative vision has stabilized. The length of time necessary for vision to stabilize depends upon the procedure performed and the patient’s individual healing time.

Will Refractive Surgery Prohibit Me From Having Future Eye Surgery?
Refractive surgery will not interfere with any future eye surgery you may need, such as cataract or glaucoma surgery.

Return to Services