We
expect that you will have many questions about refractive surgery,
and pride ourselves in taking as much time as you need to understand
and feel comfortable about the surgery. This page contains
answers to commonly asked questions.
What is laser vision correction?
It is an outpatient treatment that uses a light beam to alter the curvature of
the cornea to improve vision. The laser emits pulses of cool
ultraviolet or infrared light to remove microns (small amounts
of tissue), altering the curvature of the cornea and allowing
visual images to be more sharply focused on the retina.
What are the benefits of VISX laser correction at New Vision Laser Centers?
Located in our office, the laser treats nearsightedness or
farsightedness simultaneously with astigmatism using a very
fast procedure time, undilated pupils, and an automated tracker
to follow fine eye movements. Our new VISX S4 laser upgrade
provides scanning technology to limit distortion.
Does it hurt?
The surgery itself is pain free. For one or two days after
the procedure, some patients have a scratchy, sandy feeling
or it may feel like a dirty contact lens is in the eye.
You may even have family or friends that went through the
procedure.
Ask them. They'll reassure you.
Will I be put to sleep?
NO! If you are overly anxious, we offer a small amount of
valium (taken by mouth) 30 minutes before your procedure. You
will receive anesthetic drops in both eyes to prevent pain
and your tendency to blink.
How long does the procedure take?
The VISX laser treatment itself takes only about a minute
per eye depending on the amount of correction you need. You
will be in the laser room
about
15 minutes and in our comfortable lazy boy chairs 45 minutes
preparing for the procedure and receiving instructions. Because
it is a surgical procedure with preoperative preparation(drops)
and
postoperative
checking,
you'll want
to allow about an hour for the entire procedure.
Will I need to wear glasses or contact lenses after
the procedure?
Nearly all patients
are able to function without the need for distance glasses
or contact lenses. Occasionally when there is very slight
undercorrection a few patients will use spectacles for night
driving. The fact of the matter is 98% of patients are able
to drive legally without the need for glasses.
Will I have to take off a lot of work?
Most patients are able to return to work the very next day.
What about after the procedure?
There are just a few restrictions such as avoiding dirty or dusty environments
the first few days; no swimming or hot tubs for two weeks;
avoiding eyeliner and mascara for ten days; and avoiding eye
rubbing. You'll
find
these few restrictions to be common sense.
Does insurance cover laser vision correction?
Most insurance companies consider this
procedure to be elective surgery. Insurance plans and individual
policies
will differ from plan to plan. New Vision has met with
some employers
in the Rockford and Madison metropolitan areas offering
matching fee reductions. You may want to check with your Human
Resources
Office for eligibility. We know that value is an important
factor to you, which is why New Vision Laser offers a variety
of options for you to select from, including credit card payment
and convenient same-day payment plan approval with 0% financing.
How often is retreatment necessary?
About 5% of LASIK treated eyes require retreatment between 8-12 weeks post-op
in order to achieve the best visual acuity without glasses
or contacts.
Most LASIK patients opt for both eyes operated on the same day as this significantly
reduces your office visits and healing time.
Can I have LASIK surgery even though I have astigmatism?
Large as well as small amounts of astigmatism are easily treated
concurrently with nearsightedness and farsightedness with the
VISX S4 tracking laser used at New Vision. The treatment time
is actually shortened and less corneal tissue is
removed when astigmatism is present.
Can I have LASIK surgery if I am pregnant?
No. Pregnancy and breastfeeding may alter the shape of the cornea.
Can my hometown ophthalmologist or optometrist work with New Vision in my pre
and postoperative care?
Yes. We provide comanagement opportunities for your eye doctor when it is inconvenient
for you to have your initial evaluation and followup care at
our facility. Please speak with your doctor or contact us for
further information.
Is LASIK a safe procedure?
We work hard at New Vision Laser Center to assure your safe
treatment. This may include canceling your procedure if laser
pretests determine any question regarding the laser beam's
quality or effectiveness. The "pre-surgery" checklists
are thorough and routinely performed prior to all treatments.
It is also important for you to know that we routinely turn
down about 15% of patients whom we judge to be complication
risks.
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