We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions about laser vision correction, also known as refractive surgery. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us.
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A consultation with one of our doctors is required to determine if you are a candidate for laser vision correction. If you are a good candidate, this will also act as your pre-operative evaluation.
We will work with your insurance company to determine if your insurance has full or partial coverage for laser vision correction and give you a quote before your procedure. Money saved into HSA and FSA accounts can also be used for laser vision correction.
We offer CareCredit® as an option for financing. CareCredit® is a flexible, 0% interest, payment program, specifically designed for healthcare expenses, that makes it easier for you to get the treatment or procedures you want and need.
The eyes are anesthetized for surgery with numbing eye drops. Postoperatively, there is variable discomfort depending on the procedure. Most discomfort is mild and can be alleviated with eye drops. Aspirin, ibuprofen, or Tylenol can also be used safely.
There will be an initial visit to obtain a corneal imaging test and to tour the location where your laser vision correction will be done. You will then undergo your consultation with your eye surgeon at the Hillsboro Eye Clinic. Surgery will typically be done on both eyes on the same day. You will have a visit with your surgeon on the day after surgery, then at appropriate intervals.
LASIK and RLE are usually associated with rapid recovery and most patients can return to work within 1 to 2 days, depending on their occupation. SMILE is associated with a slightly slower visual recovery and most patients return to work with 2 to 3 days. PRK is associated the slowest recovery, but most patients are able return to work within 4 to 5 days. Of course, there are variations in recovery time from person to person.
This tends to follow the same pattern as time off from work. Most patients undergoing LASIK can drive safely the following day. Those undergoing SMILE or PRK will likely experience blurred vision the next day.
It will not harm your eyes or their recovery from surgery if you try to use your eyes immediately. However, most patients feel more comfortable closing their eyes for the first few hours after surgery. The following day, you should be able to use your electronics, however it is common to experience some blurred vision while you recover from surgery.
It is recommended that you avoid water activities, contact sports, and heaving lifting for 1 week. You can resume mild exercise the day after surgery.
You will need to see your doctor the day after surgery. If you undergo LASIK or SMILE, you will be able to travel by airplane immediately thereafter. If you undergo PRK, you must return on the fourth or fifth postoperative day for bandage contact lens removal. Therefore, travel is not recommended until after 1 week has elapsed.
The most common side effect after laser vision correction is dryness and fluctuating vision. Some patients experience glare and halos while driving at night.
Yes. You will be prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Your doctor will prescribe the medications and will instruct you on their use. You may also be instructed to use over-the-counter artificial tears.
Not everyone achieves perfect vision after laser vision correction. Enhancements can be performed for those who do not achieve a satisfactory initial result. Despite a surgeon’s best effort, some patients will need glasses for best distance vision postoperatively. Patients who achieve good uncorrected distance vision will need reading glasses after age 40 to 45.
Laser vision correction produces a permanent change in the eyes. Later in life, natural changes in astigmatism or cataract can cause the refractive state of the eyes to change. Patients will also need reading glasses after age 40 to 45.
As with any surgery, we cannot guarantee a perfect outcome. However, the vast majority of patients who undergo laser vision correction reach 20/20 vision or better.
