Richard Dax Hawkins, M.D.
Lasik
(Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis) is a procedure that improves a
patient’s vision by altering the shape of the cornea with a laser.
LASIK is an extremely effective method of treatment for a wide range of
vision problems, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
There are many benefits to LASIK, some of which include fast visual recovery,
limited if any discomfort, and a lowered risk of glare and halos. Most
patients are thrilled with their visual results from LASIK, wchich is
why it’s no wonder that laser vision correction has emerged as one
of the true medical breakthroughs of modern history.
Some
of the main reasons people decide to have LASIK include:
• Simplifying their lives-no longer
having to dealing with costs or inconvenience associated
with glasses and contacts
• Independence and Aesthetics-freeing
themselves from depending on glasses or contacts
for good vision and also enjoying their appearance without glasses
• Performance-Compete better in sports
or other physical activities, including occupation
• Ability to see 24/7 when they need
it-they can watch TV, see their alarm clock, enjoy nights
out and sporting events without glasses or contacts.
How it Works:
LASIK is a virtually painless procedure and the surgery only takes a matter
of minutes. Before the procedure, your eye is numbed with topical medication.There
is no pain involved, but you may feel some pressure. After the procedure
is completed you may have a slight irritation for a few hours, like a
grain of sand in your eye, but most patients feel fine shortly after the
procedure.
LASIK is basically a two-step procedure. In step one, Dr. Brown or Dr. Hawkins creates
a corneal flap on the surface of the cornea. This can be done with either
a microkeratome instrument,or with an Intralase laser. The new, advanced
approach to great vision minimizes complications and increases precision
by using a laser to create the corneal flap.
In step two of the LASIK process, the cornea is reshaped. Corneas that
are too steep (nearsighted) or too flat (farsighted) can cause your eye’s
point of focus to rest in front of or behind the retina, to correct this,
our doctors use an excimer laser to reshape your cornea. The corneal flap
is folded back to allow access to the cornea itself. The laser precisely
reshapes the imperfections in the cornea so that the focal point correctly
hits the retina. Once the procedure is completed, the corneal flap falls
back into place where it will heal without the need of stiches.
The best way to find out if you are eligible for LASIK surgery is to come in for a free consultation with one of our technicians. Click here to request more information or schedule an appointment. Below are a few guidelines to help determine if you will be a good candidate for laser vision correction.
• Are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism within the range of approved treatment
• Are over 18 years of age
• Have had a stable glasses prescription for 2 years
• Have no health issues affecting their eyes
• Are not pregnant or nursing
• Do not have any autoimmune disorders
For those who are not a candidate for LASIK, there are many other options available to correct your vision. Click here to find out more vision correction procedures available at Surgical Eye Care.
What kind of results can I expect?
LASIK is extremely successful in reducing a person’s dependence on glasses or contacts. Clinical studies have shown that most patients with a moderate prescription will likely achieve 20/20 or near 20/20 vision after LASIK surgery. 98% of people can drive without glasses after LASIK, however there is no guarantee of perfect vision.
Is LASIK painful?
LASIK is a virtually painless procedure. Your eye is numbed prior to surgery. You may feel some pressure during the surgery and possibly a eyelash sensation after the procedure.
How much does LASIK cost?
The cost of surgery varies depending on what surgery is the best for your eyes. We can give you more detailed pricing information after your initial consultation. The cost of LASIK represents outstanding value when you consider the average patient spends over $15,000 in contacts and over $5,000 on glasses in a 20 year period.
Is financing available?
Yes. We are proud to offer 12 months of Interest-free financing through Care Credit. Click here to apply.
Will I need glasses after surgery?
LASIK cannot correct a condition known as Presbyopia (aging of the eye). This occurs normally around age 40 and may require the use of reading glasses. However, there are other options to correct this condition.
Will I be able to work the next day?
You can return to work the next day, however, we prefer and recommend you take the day of surgery and the following day off from work or activity. You will need to be seen for a one-day postoperative visit.
Are their risks associated with the surgery?
All surgical procedures have risk, but the risks of serious complications from LASIK are extremely rare. Some potential complications include dryness, night glare, under or over correction, etc. Any concerns you have regarding the surgery will be discussed fully with Dr. Brown or Dr. Hawkins prior to the procedure. He is happy to answer all of your questions. In addition, making sure you take part in your post-operative follow-up appointments helps identify and address any potential complications quickly.
What is the difference between Wavefront LASIK and conventional LASIK?
Wavefront technology adds an automatic measurement for more subtle distortions (higher order aberrations) than just nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism corrected by conventional or standard LASIK. Wavefront-guided treatments attempt to eliminate higher order aberrations. Feel free to discuss this in more detail with our staff and our surgeon
What is “All-Laser LASIK” and how does it compare to traditional LASIK?
The difference between traditional LASIK and “All-Laser LASIK” is the method by which the LASIK flap is created. In “All-Laser LASIK” a laser device called a femtosecond is utilized to create the corneal flap for LASIK. This is a newer method to create that corneal flap than the traditional method of using a microkeratome instrument. There is no absolute agreement among eye surgeons on the better choice for flap creation. Discuss any questions and concerns you have about how the preferred method is chosen with your surgeon
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