© 2009 Walman Eye Center
Walman Eye Center 602 222 2020
Excimer Laser Assisted in-
LASIK
In LASIK, a corneal flap is lifted
The bed under the flap is then flattened precisely with the excimer laser beam
The flap is placed back over the flattened cornea; with the flap in place, the eye is more comfortable much more rapidly than in PRK
The LASIK procedure represents the latest technology in refractive surgery to correct refractive errors. It utilizes the precision of the computerized excimer laser delivery system to customize a change in corneal curvature to bring light into proper focus; and by reshaping the cornea under a precision made flap, the comfort level and return to normal activities generally happens extremely quickly.
Advantages:
- Appears to have more precise results than RK
- Results appear equivalent to PRK in low myopia (up to 3 diopters), but improved for higher degrees of myopia
- Has been shown to produce good results in high myopia, and has also shown encouraging results around the world for low hyperopia as well as astigmatism
- No pain aside from minimal irritation for 1-
2 days - Can return to normal activities by the following day
- The visual effect is seen quickly -
usually within 24 hours - No need for a bandage contact lens to promote healing as in PRK
- Generally no haze seen, as noted for the first 2 months in PRK for moderate myopia
- Generally no need for cortisone eye drops for the 2 months as with PRK
Disadvantages:
Although the Lasik procedure, when performed on an individual that is an appropriate candidate, is very successful. Some, such as glare at night, are common early on in the healing period, but often settle down in time. Other issues, such as infections or flap problems, are uncommon, and often can be successfully managed. For a more complete discussion of risks and benefits, it is best to come in for a consultation so that a relevant discussion of factors as related to your particular circumstances can be discussed.
LASIK or PRK?
For refractive surgery problems, the age of the Excimer laser has brought significant
benefits to the expected results. What is the best type of refractive surgical procedure
for you? At Walman Eye Center, we pride ourselves in treating individuals as individuals
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In general terms, the Excimer Laser procedures have lead to the extinction of the older RK procedures, primarily because of the accuracy and dependability. For the individual with a low amount of myopia, both PRK and LASIK procedures can work well. For the individual with moderate to high amounts of myopia, as well as those with astigmatism (and in the near future, with Hyperopia i.e. farsightedness), LASIK procedures appear to have a definite edge. The cornea is less traumatized, and the recovery appears to be significantly quicker. Above all, and unlike RK, the need for enhancements is significantly reduced.
We have, in the past few years, consulted with many patients who felt that they wished to hold off from refractive surgery until our confidence level in the technology has improved. That time appears to be here. Your vision without glasses or contacts can likely be improved.
Frequently Asked Questions about Laser Surgery
Will I have pain with a Laser Treatment?
This question is certainly one of the most common that is asked in association with
any eye surgical procedure. To the surprise of most patients, a significant amount
of discomfort is not encountered. There is no need to put an individual to sleep
for a procedure and, generally, a few numbing drops are all that is necessary when
performing the laser procedures. In this way, the patient is alert, but generally
speaking, not uncomfortable. Usually, Dr. Walman and the patient are chatting about
such subjects as their latest favorite web sites -
Will I see anything during the procedure?
A common worry and misconception among many is the thought that they will see what is happening or be staring at instruments in front of them. During the procedure, it is impossible to focus on any instruments. The only visible sensation will be a bright light from the microscope.
How fast will I heal? How fast can I return to work?
When the procedure is over, the patient returns home within about ½ hour. Usually,
no patch is necessary. One can return to most types of work by the following day.
Improvement in vision is often noticeable on the same day of treatment, but continued
improvement is expected over the following 2 -
What is the cost of Laser Refractive Surgery?
The costs of the procedure can only be discussed after you and Dr. Walman have determined the extent of treatment. Financing is available through Chase Health Advantage or Care Credit patient financing.
Patient Financing
LASIK2020 / Walman Eye Center offers patients the option to finance their procedure,
through Chase Health Advance or Care Credit Financing. Patient financing was created
for people who don't want to tie up their traditional credit sources with medical
debt or those who simply can't afford to pay out-
In the LASIK procedure, a corneal cap is fashioned by the Microkeratome as described
above. However, the reshaping of the cornea is accomplished with the laser; the bed
of the cornea under the cap is flattened or remolded to correct for errors of short-
After the central cornea is remolded by the high energy ultra-
