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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS |
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Who is a candidate for laser vision correction?
A majority of the nearly 145 million Americans who require glasses or contact
lenses will find that they are appropriate candidates for laser vision correction. Generally, you must be at least 18 years old for nearsightedness and
farsightedness and 21 years old for astigmatism. Your vision must be stable for at least one year prior to laser vision correction. You must have healthy eyes, free of degenerative or
autoimmune diseases, and not have a condition that makes healing difficult. You must not be pregnant or nursing. |
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Is the procedure safe?
Over one million patients worldwide have had this treatment performed on them successfully. Clincial trials of laser vision correction have been ongoing for
many years. The FDA has found the excimer laser to be safe and effective for the treatment of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Nationwide
studies indicate that 98% of patients end up with at least 20/40 vision (sufficient to drive legally without
glasses), and 80% or more have 20/20 sight. Statistics show that 92% of Florida Eye Health patients have 20/20 vision or better six months after having the LASIK procedure. |
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Are there any risks involved in this procedure?
There are risks with any procedure. However, because laser vision correction uses a cool beam of light that is computer controlled, there is little room for
error. Although studies have shown that complications have been rare with LASIK, some of the risks include haze, light sensitivity or glare, under or over response, regression, and fluctuation.
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Are there any risks involved in this procedure?
There are risks with any procedure. However, because laser vision correction uses a cool beam of light that is computer controlled, there is little room for error.
Although studies have shown that complications have been rare with LASIK, some of the risks include haze, light sensitivity or glare, under or over response, regression, and fluctuation. |
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Does laser vision correction hurt?
No, the treatment itself is virtually painless. Some patients experience some discomfort for one to two days after treatment. Many patients compare this to a
sensation of sand in the eye. Discomfort during recovery can be effectively managed with medication. |
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What happens before the procedure?
You will have a thorough, dilated eye examination to determine whether your eyes are healthy and suitable for laser vision correction. Your eye will be
photographed and a computerized map, called corneal topography, will be made to assess the shape of your cornea. These diagnostic tests will help ensure precise results.. |
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What can I expect the day of treatment?
Laser vision correction is an outpatient procedure which takes less than one minute for most patients. The entire procedure usually takes 15 minutes and
your visit on the day of treatment should be complete in about an hour. Generally, patients take an oral medication to help them relax prior to the
procedure. Once you are in the room where the procedure takes place, you will relax in a reclining
chair while anesthetic drops are placed in your eye. Your head will be positioned under the laser, and a
support placed to gently and comfortably hold your eyelids open during treatment. You will focus on a
blinking light during the procedure. Afterward, drops or ointment will be placed in your eye for protection and comfort.  
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