How
do I know if I'm a candidate for Laser Vision Correction?
We recommend you come in for a free evaluation with our refractive counselor.
When you bring your glasses or prescription, we'll determine which refractive
procedure will offer you the greatest benefit.
What
is the difference between PRK and LASIK?
PRK was
the first Excimer laser procedure approved for use in the United States.
With PRK, the surface of the cornea (epithelium) is scraped or ablated
along with the corneal tissue underneath. This sculpting removes microscopic
layers of the cornea to correct refractive error. In contrast, LASIK
reshapes the inner layers of the cornea to correct nearsightedness,
farsightedness and astigmatism. A special instrument called the microkeratome
gently folds back and lifts a thin layer of the cornea . The laser then
precisely reshapes the inner surface of the cornea to enable light rays
to focus more directly on the retina so images are in better focus.
LASIK is the most widely used refractive procedure performed in the
United States. Because the corneal surface is left virtually intact,
most patients report a very high comfort level following the procedure
and almost instantaneous improvements in visual acuity.
Are
all patients who wear glasses and contacts candidates for LASIK?
Patients with virtually every degree of nearsightedness are enjoying
good outcomes with LASIK. We are able to treat mild to moderate degrees
of farsightedness and astigmatism. For more extreme farsightedness,
implantable contact lenses may be an option. Our counselor will be happy
to discuss this procedure with you during your free evaluation.
How
long have your doctors been performing refractive surgery?
Dr. Arleo has been performing refractive surgery since 1994 and LADARVision
in the office since 2001. He has performed thousands of procedures for
patients across the region.
What
kind of laser do you use?
Investing in the most advanced technology is part of Arleo Eye Institute's
commitment to provide our patients with the highest level of patient
care. We use the LADARVision 4000 system that incorporates an active
eye tracking system, in addition to many other benefits. Click
here to learn more about our laser.
How long will the procedure actually take?
You will be at Arleo Eye Institute approximately
two hours. The time in the surgery suite with the doctor is 15
to 20 minutes. The actual laser treatment time is approximately
one minute per eye.
Is
the laser painful?
The procedure itself is not painful since medication is administered
to make you feel comfortable. Post operatively, most patients experience
little or no discomfort. After the procedure, your eyes may feel scratchy,
gritty, or watery. These are temporary symptoms and are not a problem
for most patients.
What
kind of vision can I expect the day after surgery?
Many patients notice improved vision immediately after the procedure.
Most patients are functional without their corrective lenses at the
one day post operative exam. Patients continue to see a gradual increase
in their visual acuity during the first five to seven days after the
procedure.
Do
you have financing plans?
There are various financing plans available and we'll work with you
to develop a flexible payment plan to meet your requirements. Arleo
Eye Institute uses (CareCredit.com)
and (Vision Fee
Plan). We are currently offering "no payment, no interest
for 6 months". Call our office for more details: 607-257-5599.
Does
insurance cover refractive surgery?
Most insurance companies consider refractive surgery an elective surgery
and it is not usually a covered benefit. However, it is certainly worth
checking with your insurance company and we encourage you to call them.
Can
both eyes be done at the same time?
Because of the advanced technology associated with laser vision correction,
both eyes are most often treated at the same time. It is possible that
the second eye may be done anywhere from one day to a few days to months
after the first eye. This can be discussed with your eye doctor.
Do
the results last?
Refractive surgery is considered to be a permanent procedure. However,
refractive surgery will not prevent any age related conditions such
as presbyopia or cataracts, and they would be treated in their normal
matter.
How
much work will I miss?
Most patients return to their normal activities the day after the procedure.
The refractive counselor can give you more details on what you can expect
when you come in for an evaluation.
What
are the risks of refractive surgery?
Again, the counselor can discuss with you the benefits, risks, and side-effects
of the surgery, and what you may be able to expect from the procedure.
However, steps are taken to reduce the possibility of risks.
