What Is Lasik

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   At what age can you get laser eye surgery?
   What is the age you have to be to get LASIK?

   • ANSWER:
     The minimum age requirement for LASIK is 18. That doesn't mean that the day your turn 18, that they will do it. As Jenn mentioned, you must be 18 AND have a stable prescription, meaning that your eyes haven't changed for 1-2 years; preferably two. For most people, their eyes don't stabilize until mid-twenties so although you must be at least 18, this alone does not make you a suitable candidate. There are also other criteria that you must meet before you can be considered as a candidate, and this is determined through an actual LASIK consultation and work-up. You must have a stable prescription firstly. They will also test you for corneal thickness, pupil size, and tear production. A side-effect of LASIK is dry eyes so if your eyes are dry to begin with, they are going to be very dry post-operatively. They will also determine which type of LASIK is right for you. There are two different kinds (last time I checked) and not everyone is a candidate for both procedures. Also, if you currently wear contacts, you must discontinue wearing them for several weeks prior to a work-up and if you wear RGP contacts, you must be out of them for several months prior to a work-up so that your corneas re-shape and stablize.

     Hope this helps!

     Hope this helps!

2. QUESTION:
   What is the best lasik eye surgery to get?
   When it comes to things like this I am pretty ignorant. I hear that there are two new methods out there for lasik eye surgery. Can I please get some feedback in regards to which procedure is the best and why! Thanks!

   • ANSWER:
     There are many different kinds of LASIK. It really depends on your preference. The normal LASIK uses a blade to cut a "flap" in your cornea where another LASIK procedure is done by laser to cut the "flap". There is also laser procedures that can be done if your cornea is not thick enough to have LASIK and that is called PRK and still people may not be able to have this. The best thing to do is to schedule a free consultation with an eye doctor that does Laser Surgeries and find out if you are a candidate for them. Many people find out they aren't candidates for any laser surgeries anyways. Hope this helps!!

3. QUESTION:
   What is the difference between Lasik and Paragon CRT?
   Lasik is non reversable and cuts your cornea, I know.
   But does Paragon CRT take away some of your cornea? It's just a flattening contact, but still, does it take away any cornea when you take out the contact? And will your vision go completely back to your regular perscription when you don't wear them anymore? Like completely back to lets say -4?

   • ANSWER:
     LASIK makes your cornea flatter by removing some of it. Paragon CRT makes your cornea flatter by shoving it in. No tissue is removed. Once wear is discontinued, your cornea would eventually return to its original shape. If you had fully eliminated -4.00, it would probably take months.

4. QUESTION:
   How much does Lasik cost in 2009 for both eyes on average?
   I'm considering having Lasik done, but I'm curious as to what the average price for both eyes being done is. Anyone know?

   • ANSWER:
     http://www.allaboutvision.com/visionsurgery/cost.htm#average
     try this site

5. QUESTION:
   What is the lowest vision that they will perform lasik surgery on?
   I want to get lasik but Im afraid my vision isn't bad enough. I have -2.00 in both eyes and -.25 astigmatism. I wear contacts but i get sick of putting them in and taking them out everyday and not being able to fall asleep watching tv and not being able to see the clock when I wake up. Would I be a good candidate for it? I have still have to wait though b/c even though im old enough my eyes haven't stablized yet.

   • ANSWER:
     Your prescription is well within the range that they do LASIK on. Prescriptions like yours often yield the best results.

6. QUESTION:
   How accurate LASIK or Laser Eye Surgery is?, and what is the difference between LASIK and Laser Eye Surgery?
   I am planning to do a LASIK or Laser Eye Surgery, does it has any disadvantages doing it? and what is the difference between Laser and LASIK, which is better and why, I am hesitating whether to do it or not, also I don't know which one should I choose LASIK or Laser.

   P.S. My vision is not so bad, it is something like 1.7 - 2 degrees deviation, am just sick wearing glasses.

   Thanks in advance.

   • ANSWER:
     LASIK stands for LASER assisited In-Situ Keratomileusis, so there is a Laser being used on your eye during the procedure. The doctors will make a "flap" of your cornea using a microkeratome and then apply the Laser to your cornea shaping it and correcting your vision. They carefully replace the flap and you're done. It is important after LASIK that you do not rub your eyes for a couple of weeks to let the flaps heal back to normal. Your doctor will provide shields for you to wear at night so you don't rub your eyes while you're sleeping.

     The only really negatives that occur regularly are:
     A) Dry eyes, if you have dry eyes prior to the procedure they will be more dry after the procedure.
     B) Your correction isn't totally corrected - you may need an enhancement to get your vision perfect.
     C) If you have Presbyopia (the need for reading glasses) and you have both eyes corrected for distance, you will still need reading glasses, you can talk to your doctor about possible Monovision or Mini-Monovision if you're just about 40 or over 40.

     Laser Eye Surgery is for people with complications in their retinas, or Glaucoma. A Laser is applied either cauterizing blood vessels in a wide range of spots and sizes for retina. It can be used to open angles in narrow angle Glaucoma. It can also be applied to patients that have cloudiness after cataract surgery to remove cloudiness.

7. QUESTION:
   How long does it take before your eyesight adjusts back after lasik surgery?
   i heard your eyes become bad again after lasik surgery after just a few years because they adjust back. Is this true? and what are the other things about lasik i should know about? i also heard that your eyes become very dry.

   • ANSWER:
     About half to two thirds of people I come across who have gotten LASIK have experienced their vision getting blurrier.

     The eyes don't adjust back to blur. They get blurrier because we are using our eyes incorrectly. Blur is supposed to be a signal from the body that we're doing something wrong. Instead of stopping the incorrect vision habits we put on the quick fix of glasses. Because we don't address the real issues of blur our vision just gets worse year after year. So when we etch our prescription onto our eyes with LASIK the rate of increased blur is similar.

     When we use our eyes correctly they will change to whatever shape is necessary to have the best clarity even after they have been mishapped by surgery.

8. QUESTION:
   What is the difference between PRK and LASIK?
   Some reviews on the PRK procedure and the Lasik procedure would be very helpful. I'm not sure which I should get. My vision is at 2.0 in the left eye and 2.25 in the right eye. I've heard PRK is quicker, but Lasik is more comfortable.

   • ANSWER:
     Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)
     The LASIK procedure also uses the excimer laser to reshape the cornea, but this is done under a thin corneal flap, which preservers the surface epithelial cells. Rather than scraping away the epithelial cells to expose the corneal stroma as in PRK, a specialized surgical instrument known as a microkeratome (which works somewhat like a carpenter's plane) creates a flap of corneal tissue that is attached by a hinge. This flap is gently pulled back like a clear, hinged pancake and the corneal stroma is exposed. The laser part of the LASIK procedure takes place in the exposed corneal bed (corneal stroma). The laser application itself lasts about 30 to 90 seconds.

     After the exposed corneal bed is treated by the laser and minute amounts of cells are vaporized, the flap is replaced in its original position. The flap is held in position by the eye's natural suction facility and natural sticky sugars, and provides increased comfort and decreased recovery time for the patient.

     Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

     This is a procedure in which the front surface of the cornea is directly sculpted by the excimer laser. The surgeon prepares the eye by gently removing the surface layer known as the corneal epithelium. This layer regenerates itself within a few days. As in the LASIK procedure, computer-controlled pulses are directed at the exposed surface (the corneal stroma) to reshape the cornea. Less than ten percent of the cornea is affected, with the deeper layers remaining untouched.

     Differences Between LASIK and PRK

     Refractive vision correction performed under a flap (LASIK) offers numerous advantages over refractive vision correction performed on the cornea's surface (PRK). Notably, there is a more rapid improvement in vision and decreased discomfort with LASIK since the surface epithelial cells have been preserved and do not need to regrow. This is undoubtedly the reason that LASIK has become the corrective surgery of choice for both doctors and patients. However, in some patients, PRK is a safer alternative that may promise better outcomes. Patients who might benefit from PRK include those in whom the cornea might too thin for LASIK, or in some patients with corneal irregularities or scars.

     A brief comparison of PRK and LASIK is outlined in the following chart.

     Item PRK LASIK
     Initial examination Similar to LASIK Similar to PRK
     Procedural difference Surface epithelium removed Corneal flap made with microkeratome
     Excimer laser procedure Similar to LASIK Similar to PRK
     Postoperative discomfort Variable Usually minimal
     Visual recovery Starts improving at three days Starts improving at one day
     Possible side effects Glare/halo/ghosting Corneal haze Glare/halo/ghosting Corneal flap problems

9. QUESTION:
   What could cause double vision after a lasik consultation?
   I had a lasik consultation 2 days ago. My eyes were dilated and some other test were done which required the tech to numb my eye and basically poke it to check the thickness of my cornea. The very next day my eyes still appeared dilated, my vision is doubled, and my left eye appears to be turned inward (crosseyed). I've called the lasik office and left 2 messages for someone to contact me. So far no one has. Is this normal?!?!

   • ANSWER:
     No. This is not normal. The eye turn is the bothersome point. There really is nothing they did that could cause the eye to deviate. This very well may be another problem that has just coincidentally occurred soon after your visit. You should be seen soon to assess the reason for the eye turn.

     It may be as simple as over accommodation (focusing excessively) in response to the dilation or it could be a more serious neurological problem. Just need to go in and see.

10. QUESTION:
    I want to become a lasik eye surgeon. What do I do and where do I go?
    I am a sophomore in high school and I am pretty sure this is what I want to do. How can I get a degree in ophthalmology and become strictly a lasik surgeon? Are there any very good schools in the state of GA or fairly close? Any help would be much appreciated.

    • ANSWER:
      4 years of college, then med school, be a resident, intern and do a fellowship. You have to be an Ophthalmologist a "MD" to do LASIK.

11. QUESTION:
    What is The Difference Between Lasik and Laser Eye Surgery?
    I have pretty bad vision, I use some pretty thick glasses, my question is... What is the differences between Lasik Surgery and Laser Eye surgery? and which would be the best for me?

    • ANSWER:
      There are several different types of laser eye surgery. And there are different types of lasers that can be used in eye surgery depending upon what the surgeon is wanting to accomplish. For instance, the surgeon could use a yag laser to treat secondary cataracts. Or the surgeon could use an argon laser to perform iridotomies or possibly to treat leaking blood vessels in the retina. Or the surgeon could use an excimer laser to correct vision disorders such as near sightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. This is the laser you are probably referring to. Now, excimer laser surgery is a broad term that can include PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) or LASIK (laser insitu keratomeleusis). PRK is used on the surface of the cornea to correct prescription errors whereas LASIK is used, after creating a flap, on the internal structures of the cornea. Both are capable of precisely correcting prescription errors. To decide which is best for you, you need to see an eye doctor who is experienced in this field. He or she will be able to recommend which procedure would be best.

12. QUESTION:
    What is the difference in lasik and the other eye surgeries out there?
    There is also lens replacement surgery too. Is that better than lasik or worst?

    • ANSWER:
      Hard for an expert to answer simply, but i'll try. I assume you are interested in surgery for myopia so as to eliminate the need for glasses. Your age is important because over the age of 40, if you eliminate the myopia, you will need reading glasses. Whereas, if you remain myopic, you will always be able to see up close without glasses. If you are in your 20's (do not have the surgery until your eyes are fully grown), you will still need readers in your 40's. LASIK will rid you of myopia by using a LASER to reshape the cornea, but it is expensive and complications are possible. In
      addition, it can cause problems later in life should you develop cataracts or glaucoma. It is not something you should have done without serious thought. I believe that what you mean by lens
      replacement is removal of the normal lens of the eye which is what is done in cataract surgery. This will correct high myopia....
      a prescription range of minus 11 to 14....which is pretty rareHowever, when the natural lens is removed, a plastic implant can be inserted which will give good vision without glasses....for
      distance, but you still need reading glasses. There are implants that can give both near and far vision, but neither is as sharp as you might want. There are other operations that are experimental
      such as putting an implant in an eye without taking out the natural lens, but the results are less than ideal and very few Ophthalmologists are doing it.
      My advice, in general, is if you have two healthy eyes that need just some help to see with glasses or contacts (and you should NEVER keep them in longer than 18 hours without a 10 hour rest)
      do not expose them to possible harm. The only possible exception is if you have to be a military pilot.

13. QUESTION:
    what medical insurance is best to get especially if you want lasik surgery?
    I want to get good medical insurance so lasik surgery isn't so expensive as well as good dental because cavitys are way too easy for me to get. Any suggestions?

    • ANSWER:
      Currently LASIK is not fully covered by any insurance. Some will cover up to 00. Usually with that LASIK centers will have you pay the full amount up front and will give you a receipt to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

      LASIK is still considered elective surgery.

      Most centers though offer financing plans (there are some that do 18 months interest free).

14. QUESTION:
    What is the maximum nearsightedness degree one can have to qualify for LASIK surgery?
    I heard that Tiger Woods got successful LASIK surgery and he was -11 nearsightedness. My eyes are pretty bad and I need some info on this. Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      It depends on each individual, most importantly the thickness of your cornea. LASIK works by ablating, or destroying, some of the inner layer of your cornea. By doing so, it effectively flattens the cornea and corrects your vision. The higher the prescription the more tissue needs to be ablated. So if you have a really high prescription and a thin cornea, LASIK would not be an option. There are a few other procedures that may be an option if LASIK isn't. Go see your eye doctor and get more information.

15. QUESTION:
    What is the procedure of Lasik surgery like?
    Is the procedure of Lasik surgery painful?
    I'm 18 years old and I recently asked my dad for contacts, which he said yes to. But he gave me the suggestion on getting Lasik surgery. It has been a week now and he is strongly suggesting to get the surgery.

    I'm afraid of pain and I really hate the idea of doing the surgery. I'm wondering if anyone can tell me what it's like during the procedure and after. Thank you.

    • ANSWER:
      I had lasik back in April. It didn't hurt at all. Afterwards, all I had was a little dryness, maybe a little burning, but nothing that I would even consider uncomfortable. All of this went away in just a few days, and they give you drops that completely ease this. All I can say is that it was the best thing that I have done in a long time. Waking up the next morning and being able to see things clearly, there is nothing like that.

      One thing that I did do was research the doctors in my area. I ended up paying almost 00 for my surgery, but I got the best. (your eyes are nothing to skimp on).
      There are some downsides to consider. 1) It is sort of a trade off. You get nice clear distant vision, but as you age, your reading vision will decline. At around 40 (average) you will need reading glasses at about the same strength of your current distant vision. On the other hand, everybody loses reading vision as they age anyway. I figure. I would have ended up needing reading glasses when I get old anyway, plus I much prefer only wearing glasses for reading as opposed to all the time for the rest of my life. Also, I am 37 now, and my reading vision is perfect so far.
      2) You may hear some people say that you will see a halo around lights after the surgery, but this is temperary, and is mostly just around LED lights, and it never bothered me much.
      A doctor will map your eye so that the best outcome is achieved. So as long as you find a good doctor, you will be fine.

      The actual procedure takes about 10 min. total. They lay you down under the machine, numb your eyes with drops. Then, they place a thing around your eye to hold the lid open (doesn't hurt, just a little pressure) then they will tell you to look at a light and the laser cuts the flap. The doctor folds the flap back, and for a second your vision goes blurry. Then the laser zaps off the correct amount of your cornia in the exact spots that your eye map dictates. Then the dr. folds the flap back down and then he will use a surgical wipe to wipe down the flap on your eye. You will see all of this, but all you will feel is wetness from the solution. Then, he swings you around under the other side of the machine, and does everything on the other eye. Plus, you will feel totally relaxed, because they give you a valium before starting.

16. QUESTION:
    How much does it cost lasik without any insurance?
    I really need to do it (lasik) my prescr. is very high but I don t have insurance, how much can cost me?
    I have 00 do u think that s enough?
    Also I don t know where I can go to do it, I live in Chicago and sometimes I saw in tv the commercial with lasik plus, what do u suggest?

    • ANSWER:
      00 is about right for most places. Best thing to do is to call some of your local Ophthalmology clinics, these are practices that have MD's, and may provide surgery options. Many places do free lasik consultations, and will let you know if you are even a candidate. Also, if you wear contacts, they usually want you to wear glasses for several weeks before the surgery with no contact lens wear in order to properly reshape the cornea.

17. QUESTION:
    What do you think about lasik eye surgery?
    I want to get lasik surgery but I remember about 9 years ago when I was about 18 and I wanted to get the procedure done, someone I worked with told me that it was dangerous. She told me before lasik there was a different type of eye surgery. It produced the same result as the lasik but 20 years later there vision was worse than before and they were practically blind. That scared me. Is this true? Is lasik surgery safe?

    • ANSWER:
      LASIK eye surgery is a medical procedure that can correct your vision by altering the physical properties of your eye. Unlike traditional surgical procedures that depend upon the skills and steadiness of the surgeon's hand, advanced LASIK eye surgery is computer controlled.

      The more progressive LASIK surgery centers perform in-depth analysis of your eyes as an evaluation procedure to determine if you're a good candidate for the LASIK procedure. The evaluation process, which is largely controlled by computer itself, maps the overall physical makeup of each eye. A traditional eye exam determines your visual abilities and then an exhaustive computer analysis determines if your eyes can be enhanced by the LASIK procedure.

      In addition to determining whether or not you're a good candidate for LASIK, the procedure also records quite a bit of data that's specific to your eyes. If you choose to proceed with the LASIK surgery, this data is used to program the computer controlled LASIK equipment to insure that your eyes are modified exactly in the proper manner so as to provide maximum benefit.

      LASIK eye surgery does carry some risks, such as loss of vision. In some extremely rare cases, the patient may lose vision due to equipment malfunction, scarring or healing related complications.

      One common risk of LASIK eye surgery is that any dry eye condition that is experienced right after surgery may hamper the healing process. Signs of dryness are burning, redness and decreased vision. If this dry eye condition persists, you may have to medicate to improve tear duct function and use artificial tears to maintain the proper level of moisture. You must keep your eyes moist after LASIK surgery in order to promote healing.

      LASIK eye surgery is relatively safe and it can free you from glasses and contacts. Before you commit to LASIK surgery, make sure that you consider all the advantages and disadvantages of having the procedure. Ask the doctor lots of questions so that you can make an informed decision about whether LASIK eye surgery is the right choice for you.

18. QUESTION:
    How often does LASIK surgery not work out fine?
    I'm thinking of getting LASIK surgery, because I have horrible vision, but I wanna know the risk. I would like to know what kind of percentage is there, that my surgery won't work out fine? Please help!

    • ANSWER:
      Most common complication is Dry Eyes Syndrome, 21% report
      Second common complication is Undercorrection & Overcorrection
      Third common complication is Night vision problem, Glare, Halos, Night-driving problem, 19.3% report

      Starbursts after Lasik, 19.7% report
      Haze after Lasik, less than 1% report
      Induced Astigmatism after Lasik
      Regression & Not Permanent after Lasik, less than 5% report
      Epithelial Ingrowth after Lasik, as low as 0.2% and as high as 15%

      Corneal Abrasion after Lasik
      Flap Never Heals after Lasik, 2% report
      Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis (DLK) after Lasik, 0.7% - 32% report
      Infection after Lasik, 1:20 for Lasik versus contact lens use
      keratoconus after Lasik, 0.04% - 0.6% report

      the site give me a lot of help, u can check it
      http://www.lasikreviews.co.uk/lasik-eye-surgery-complications-risks.htm

19. QUESTION:
    What is the real problem with teens with lasik?
    Hi so the problem with teens getting lasik is that they'll need to get it again since their corneas might not be done developing, but can't they just get lasik twice? What's the big deal with teens getting lasik, why is it only restricted to adults if that's the only problem it poses to teens?

    • ANSWER:
      The doctor wants to make sure your eyes are stable before doing lasik, which usually happens in the early 20's. This was a helpful article about the procedure.

20. QUESTION:
    What is the risk of getting color blind after lasik eye surgery?
    My dad have color blindness and I' am really worried what will happen if I get the surgery.

    If you could please answer what percentage of people are color blind after lasik eye surgery

    • ANSWER:
      Color blindness is a genetic condition. Your children might get it, but if you don't already have it you won't get it from lasik.

21. QUESTION:
    Should I do Lasik now or wait for better safer technology?
    I am in the mid 20's consider Lasik, but i heard some side effect such as had problem in night vision, should I wait few more years maybe a safer and better technology will come out? What age should do Lasik before is too late?

    • ANSWER:
      LASIK is a laser based vision correction procedure where your vision can be corrected to such a degree that you no longer need corrective lenses. And the amazing part is that it all happens in just a few minutes!

      Think about that - no more glasses or contact lenses. What a relief - never having to hunt for your glasses or fool around with contacts.

      But LASIK eye surgery isn't right for everyone. You need to meet certain requirements before submitting to LASIK eye surgery.

      Here are a few of the guidelines used in determining if LASIK is a good choice for you -
      Lasik surgery: Your blindness is temporary, do not be alarmed - Reno Gazette Journal

      Lasik surgery: Your blindness is temporary, do not be alarmedReno Gazette Journal, NV - Oct 10, 2008Several masked, gloved and capped Lasik doctors leaned over me, seemingly fascinated by my impending sightlessness. Over 28 years' worth of hospital visits, ...

      * You should be over 18 years of age.
      * Your corneas must be healthy.
      * You should not have had a significant change in your lens prescription in the last 12 months.
      * Women should not be pregnant or breastfeeding.
      * You should be in good general health.

      Hope this helps!

22. QUESTION:
    How would I go about getting Lasik While In the USMC?
    I am really looking for the united states marine corps, i ship off to bootcamp, and one of the first thing I want to get done is lasik, I don't mind waiting up for 1 year, but How do i go about getting this done? what procedures do i need to take Step 1 - 10. please help me out if you have gotten eye surgery before while serving in the united states marine corps?
    any more answers?

    • ANSWER:
      1. Get to the fleet, don't do it while while training or going to your school....you don't want to miss any time.
      2. Go to medical, get a referral.
      3. Go to hospitol, talk to them about, schedule Lasik
      4. Get Lasik
      5. No more "Port Holes".
      6. Get laid.
      7. Repeat 6 over and over and....

      Edit: To the question above mine, yes, when you sign up for the Marine Corps you sign up for 4 years active, four years IRR....I've seen it happen...so yeah...theres a "chance".

23. QUESTION:
    How would I go about getting Lasik while in the USMC?
    I am really looking for the united states marine corps, i ship off to bootcamp, and one of the first thing I want to get done is lasik, I don't mind waiting up for 1 year, but How do i go about getting this done? what procedures do i need to take Step 1 - 10. please help me out if you have gotten eye surgery before while serving in the united states marine corps?
    any answers?

    • ANSWER:
      The first thing you'll have to realize is that the military will provide medical services you need, but not necessarily ones you want. They will make sure you have glasses and contacts, but you can not assume or gets your heart set on having an electoral surgery done free of charge. If you are able to get it done, it won't be right out of bootcamp and it may not be anytime soon.

      You have to understand that their are a lot of people in the Marine Corps (and other branches) that wear glasses or contacts that would like to have permanently better vision. The military has limited money and doctors. The way they deal with this is by having you apply for the procedure. You'll need to explain why you feel like you need the surgery. People in certain jobs get moved up the list quickly because they depend on perfect vision or have jobs that make wearing glasses difficult.

      Once you've finished bootcamp and get your duty station you can make an appointment to discuss the possibility with your base medical center. They'll be able to help fill out any paperwork and requests and from there you'll just have to wait and see if you get approved.

24. QUESTION:
    What is the down time for lasik surgery?
    Does everybody know the down time for lasik surgery? Alot of people say they have their eyes perfectly good after 24hrs but my friend had it and it has been 5 days and she is still seeing blurry. She cant see far away and cant see closebye either. Does anybody know?

    • ANSWER:
      Had mine done at 4PM went home and to bed. Next morning at the doctors office at 7AM and to work at 8AM. Had a halo effect driving at night for about a week. My eyes continued to improve for weeks afterwards. The greatest thing in the world.

25. QUESTION:
    What is the best eye surgery Lasik or?
    I have my mother's degrading eyesight. My eyesight is still degrading until I'm 20 or so but right now. I'm 16 and my eyesight right now is left 20/345 Right 20/320. So what is the best as in what happens after Lasik or the other surgeries?

    • ANSWER:
      What is best means what is best for you. Since you are a unique individual with unique eyes and unique needs, what may be best for someone else may not be the best for you. The only way to know what may be appropriate is to have a comprehensive examination from a competent eye doctor.

      I work for a nonprofit Lasik patient advocacy. We don't provide Lasik. We provide Lasik information and certify Lasik doctors' patients' results.

      You describe your vision as "degrading" and your mother's as well. If you mean a constant need for new glasses or contact lenses, then the eyes have not stabilized enough that any type of laser vision correction surgery (Lasik, PRK, LASEK, Epi-Lasik, etc.) would be appropriate. The eyes need to be healthy and prescription stable for at least two years.

      It is reasonable to expect your eyes to change at age 16, but your mother's eyes changing may be a greater concern. An adult who has a constantly worsening eyeglass prescription is a sign of something more than simple refractive error. This may be a concern for you because some eye maladies run in families.

      Lasik can change your eyeglass prescription, but your eyes will continue to change after Lasik at the same rate they did before Lasik. If there is an underlying disease that is causing the changes, then Lasik may exacerbate the problem.

26. QUESTION:
    What is the difference between Lasik and PRK?
    I was informed all about Lasik but once it came down to it the doctor said I could only have PRK laser surgery and not Lasik. I don't know much about PRK.. I mean I know it takes longer to heal and I basically know the procedure.. but I wasn't informed of the side affects it may have and I can't seem to find the information I need online. Has anyone had this surgery? WHta were your results and did it hurt? I need as much information as possible please before I make a decision. I will be calling the doctor tomorrow, but I would rather hear about it from people who have actually had it done. Thanks in advance.

    • ANSWER:
      The technical difference between Lasik and PRK is where the laser ablates (removes) corneal tissue. The patient difference is speed of vision recovery and discomfort.

      When the excimer laser was first developed, all laser assisted surgery to reduce the need for corrective lenses was Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK). The process of PRK is to remove the outermost layer of soft cells on the cornea (epithelium), reshape the surface of the cornea with the laser, and then wait for the epithelial cells to regenerate and cover the treatment area. Corneal epithelial cells are the fastest reproducing cells in the human body.

      Early PRK was quite successful and a significant improvement over previous techniques, but it had some problems. Removal of epithelial cells causes a wound response that includes major discomfort and corneal haze if the laser needed to remove a lot of tissue to correct very bad eyesight.

      A very clever eye surgeon realized that if the laser sculpting was done under a flap of corneal tissue and not at the surface, then the wound response would be different. Lasik is actually the combination of two surgical procedures. The first step of Lasik is to create a flap of corneal tissue and move it aside. The second step is to use an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. After ablation, the Lasik flap is repositioned over the treatment area. Lasik “fools” the eye into not knowing it has had surgery, so the wound response is muted. This is why Lasik can have almost instant vision recovery, virtually no pain, and virtually no chance of corneal haze.

      There are a few important limitations to Lasik. One is corneal thickness. At least 250 microns of corneal tissue must remain untouched for a healthy eye to remain stable. The Lasik flap is about 100-160 microns thick, so the laser sculpting is starting that much deeper. Some people don’t have corneas thick enough to accommodate the Lasik flap.

      The other problem with Lasik is the flap itself. Although Lasik flap related complications are relatively rare, they do occur. No Lasik flap means no possibility of a Lasik flap complication. No possibility is always better than a low probability.

      Lasers and surgical techniques have improved over the past decade and the lasers are able to create very nuanced sculpting. Placing 100-160 microns of Lasik flap over a nuanced laser ablation loses some of the nuance. For these reasons, many doctors are returning to PRK as their primary choice for laser eye surgery.

      Newer lasers and operative techniques have all but eliminated the chance of corneal haze with PRK.

      In the long-term, the results from PRK will likely be equal to or slightly better than Lasik. In the short term you may experience discomfort and vision recovery will slower than Lasik. With PRK you can expect to have very poor vision for 1-3 days, “functional fuzzy” vision for about a week, and then vision quality will improve over the next few weeks and months.

27. QUESTION:
    What happens if i flinch or move during Lasik surgery?
    I am thinking about getting Lasik surgery, but what if I flinch or move my eyes while it is being preformed, can it be harmful?

    • ANSWER:

28. QUESTION:
    Is there a risk of loosing vision while doing LASIK operation?
    I am planning to remove my eye number by doing laser operation(LASIK) but i have herd that there is a risk of loosing eyesight or even many other complications during this particular surgery.Is it true??& what are other complications involved while doing this surgery??Please answer only if you have correct info

    • ANSWER:
      There are must some risks of lasik, FDA said:

      Most common complication is Dry Eyes Syndrome, 21% report
      Second common complication is Undercorrection & Overcorrection
      Third common complication is Night vision problem, Glare, Halos, Night-driving problem, 19.3% report

      Starbursts after Lasik, 19.7% report
      Haze after Lasik, less than 1% report
      Induced Astigmatism after Lasik
      Regression & Not Permanent after Lasik, less than 5% report
      Epithelial Ingrowth after Lasik, as low as 0.2% and as high as 15%

      Corneal Abrasion after Lasik
      Flap Never Heals after Lasik, 2% report
      Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis (DLK) after Lasik, 0.7% - 32% report
      Infection after Lasik, 1:20 for Lasik versus contact lens use
      keratoconus after Lasik, 0.04% - 0.6% report

      but, the FDA aslo give the good results of lasik. toooo much words are need to write, u can check it
      The results of FDA study for Lasik eye surgery
      http://www.lasikreviews.co.uk/lasik-eye-surgery-results.htm

29. QUESTION:
    What are the risks and complications of LASIK, also Does LASIK eye surgery safe, and ?
    Does it really that you don't need eye glasses anymore and What is the advice from people doing LASIK eye surgery do it or not PLEASE i'M SO CONFUSED ABOUT THAT and i really need your help. Thanks in advance. Also why there is lots of people don't do it while prefer wear eye glasses ?

    • ANSWER:
      oh really Mr Carson D no complication??????

      FDA it self is greed driven they cover optical industry up.

      man if i can find reports that FDA and optical industry are working together also over government department reports, i will sue them, i will not even care if i have to bring public unrest toward the optical industry.

      http://www.lasikdisaster.com/

      http://www.myopia.org/
      http://www.eyecollege.com/
      http://www.central-fixation.com/
      http://www.preventmyopia.org/
      http://www.cleareyesight.info/
      http://web.singnet.com.sg/~hanwen/nvifaq.htm

      government knows eyesight can be improved because they use it in the air force,

      so i don't know who else is playing the game, but once someone find more evidence, we will not give mercy to this fraud industry

30. QUESTION:
    Is Wavefront Lasik the best laser eye surgery to date?
    I am scheduled for my Wavefront Lasik surgery next week. I was told this is the most recent, top of the line procedure available to date. I want to achieve better than perfect vision (20/10 or 20/15); and although it is not guaranteed, Wavefront Lasik has a higher percentage of success compared to other procedures to achieve, what I like to call, "high definition vision". Does anyone have any testimonials or web site links to verify if this is statistically true?

    • ANSWER:
      Wavefront lasik will in most cases give better results compared to surgery without using wavefront.

      However as you say yourself results are not guaranteed.

      Of course with all laser eye surgery there is of course no permanent cure and at some stage later in life spectacles will again need to be worn.

      Please read up as much as you can before considering surgery.

      Good Luck

      Dominic
      Retired optometrist and husband of refractive eye surgery patient(now wearing spectacles 9yrs later!)

31. QUESTION:
    Who has had lasik before and what are the results?
    Are there any side effects you have? If so, how bad is it?

    *important Question* how long has it been since your LASIK?

    How long did it take for your vision to restore to normal? Did your vision really go to 20/15 as I have read in my researches? Do it correct astigmatism? Does your eyes feel normal, like no dryness or itching or what so ever pain after the surgery? IF you have halos or double vision, how bad is it, Does it go away after a while??

    Please help me with these questions, because i am Really really tired of wearing glasses and contacts, and I am really considering to get Lasik.

    • ANSWER:
      I love it. Painful healing process for a few weeks. No side effects. 20/19 vision. Will need reading glasses someday as this is an eye muscle problem we get as we age. Eyes feel just as they did prior to the surgery. Colors seem more vibrant (to me).

      They cured the "halo" issue years ago by broadening the operated area around the pupil. Was very light sensitive for two to three weeks. Saw star-bursts for three weeks or so. Saw faint halos for four weeks or so.

      Had surgery in Canada in 2003. Flew up there for better price. Now prices here are compatible.

32. QUESTION:
    what is the average (ballpark is fine) profit margin for LASIK procedures?
    In other words, after overhead expenses, how much profit does the average LASIK surgeon take home from each procedure? I realize this figure will vary greatly depending on circumstances, but I am looking for a general idea - perhaps a range. Thanks for your help.

    • ANSWER:
      ,000/office-,000/hospital around here.......varies from state to state and doctor to doctor. Call around and gets quotes but make sure they are reputable before allowing them to do this procedure. There are fly by nights that will set up a clinic in like a strip mall but they do not provide follow-up care and do not cover additional cares if needed. Our hospital allows for you to make payments of 100$ over a period of 2-3 yrs if you qualify which is helpful. You might want to check on this as an option in your area.

33. QUESTION:
    What is the earliest age me and my sibling can get lasik eye surgery?
    We have genetic eyesight problem. The prescriptions for both of my eyes are -15. My sibling prescriptions are around -20. This means we are technically blind. I am only 15 and my sibling is only 17. People make fun of us for our immensly thick eyeglasses and look at us differently. What's the earliest age that we can both get lasik, because we definitely have a serious problem...noone has glasses thick as ours. ;_;

    • ANSWER:

34. QUESTION:
    What does the future hold for LASIK eye surgery?
    I'm going to school to become a commercial pilot. Obviously my career depends on being able to see 20/20 with or without correction (I'm 20/200 without contacts, slight astigmatism). I'm 30 years now but have considered eye surgery my entire life. (even RK back in the day). Obviously technology has improved by leaps and bounds. When LASIK rolled out I thought how could it get better than this? My best friend is a MD and he told me to hold off for a few years (this was 4-5 years ago) and now we have custom wavefront LASIK. I have had friends who've had both done with excellent results. Now with wavefront LASIK advancements, what else is on the horizon??? Are some stellar new techniques currently being developed that will roll out in the next 4-5 years?

    My eye doctor is suggesting PRK. Night vision problems could also end my career. I've heard there is less chance of reduced night vision (halos /startbursts) with PRK. The NAVY only allows PRK surgery for their pilots.

    • ANSWER:
      You are right about the side effects. Thats whats stopping me from doing the procedure so far. There are a lot more but the main side effects are halos and dry eyes. I saw some more mentioned here http://lasereyesurgerytruth.com/vision/latest/be-aware-of-these-laser-eye-surgery-complications-2.html

35. QUESTION:
    What Eye Drop is Good for Solving Dry Eyes Problem after A LASIK Surgery?
    Hi, I had my LASIK Surgery 3 months ago. Recently, I feel that my eyes are very dry. My doctor suggested me to use Sodium Hyaluronate Eye Drops. Are there any OTC eye drops I can use to solve this problem? Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      Under normal circumstances, the very sensitive nerves in the cornea send signals to the Lacrimal Gland which produces tears in response to dryness or irritation. However, during LASIK, the surgeon prepares a thin flap under which the Laser energy is applied in order to shape the cornea and eliminate your nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. It is normal and expected that during the creation of the flap a certain number of the corneal nerves will be temporarily damaged. What does this mean? It means that for some period of time after your LASIK, the regular nerve impulses that would have ordinarily told the Lacrimal Gland to produce tears will be interrupted. This is a normal and expected part of the healing process after LASIK. It can be accompanied by Dry Eyes that result in dry, gritty and uncomfortable sensations. In order to avoid this, your surgeon will have carefully examined your tearful beforehand. But, more importantly, every LASIK patient will need to use lubricating and moisturizing drops very often after their procedure. This is normal. You must keep the eye adequately bathed in tears in order to heal properly, so that you should use the lubricating drops provided by your surgeon many times each day. You cannot overuse them. If there was a question about your tear film before your procedure, you may have Punctal Plugs in place. This too will help keep the tear film stable to help you heal. Again, it is normal that almost all LASIK patients experience some degree of dry, gritty sensation after their procedure. This is completely normal and is best managed by following your LASIK surgeons recommendation on the frequent use of lubricating eye drops or other treatments. In almost all cases after several weeks of perhaps a couple of months, the symptoms of Dry Eyes after LASIK are no longer noticeable as your eyes have healed and your tear film returns to its normal condition.

36. QUESTION:
    What is a good hospital to get LASIK surgery for eye in Abu Dhabi?
    I seriously want to get the surgery done, probably in about 2-3 years, when I'm around 19-20 years old, but I wanted to know when a good time to get it.

    How much will it cost for one eye?

    And are there any negative side-effects from LASIK surgery?

    And if you have had it, how was it? Does it hurt to get it done? Can you see clear now?

    • ANSWER:
      Mafraq Hospital is the best place. I work there. I can get you all the details you need.
      Or, I can put you on phone with one of the doctors who perform it so you can ask
      all the questions on your mind.
      Text me if you will.

      050 836 8805

37. QUESTION:
    What happens if you develop a haze after Lasik surgery?
    on my last appointment with my eye doctor, he said I had a small haze around the outer edges. I had Lasik in November. He said it wasn't something I would notice in vision and it might go away

    My question is:

    Will it go away?

    What causes Haze?

    Will it affect my vision?

    • ANSWER:
      did he not explain it?
      when I had mine done they said my pupils were larger (fully dilated) than the area treated by the laser which may result in a 'halo' effect when the light was reduced, eg driving at night. I do notice this but as cars get nearer and more light enters the eye it reduces the effect.
      If you're worried, go back and make a nuisance of yourself until you're satisfied. If, like me, you piad quite a bit for it then you want them to support you, and they should be - my clinic provided 12 months support with my treatment.

38. QUESTION:
    In Texas Houston, who do you recommend for lasik vision correction for minor astigmatism?
    In Texas Houston, who do you recommend for lasik vision correction for astigmatism? What is the approximate cost? What other things should I be aware about with this procedure and choosing a doctor?

    • ANSWER:
      Its expensive, some insurance agencies do not cover it because they consider it a cosmetic procedure or some other excuse. lasik vision is not permanent, after awhile you must go through it again to keep the correction. LASIK is performed in three steps. The first step is to create a flap of corneal tissue. The second step is remodeling of the cornea underneath the flap with the laser. Finally, the flap is repositioned. A corneal suction ring is applied to the eye, holding the eye in place. This step in the procedure can sometimes cause small blood vessels to burst, resulting in bleeding or hemorrhage into the white of the eye,Some patients with poor outcomes from LASIK surgical procedures report a significantly reduced quality of life because of vision problems or physical pain associated with the surgery. it is possible to have a long list of complications during or after the procedure.
      some of the more frequently reported complications of LASIK:

      * Surgery induced dry eyes
      * Overcorrection or undercorrection
      * Very Low level vitamin D - Sun sensitivity
      * Visual acuity fluctuation
      * Halos or starbursts around light sources at night
      * Light sensitivity
      * Ghost images or double vision
      * Wrinkles in flap
      * Decentered ablation
      * Debris or growth under flap
      * Thin or buttonhole flap
      * Induced astigmatism
      * Corneal Ectasia
      * Floaters
      * Epithelium erosion
      * Posterior vitreous detachment
      * Macular hole

      Ah, I wouldn't do it.

39. QUESTION:
    is it possible after LASIK to have hair removal laser and after what time?
    I had a LASIK for my eyes 2 weeks ago. And now I want to continue my treatments for hair removal in face. Does anyone know after what time is it possible to have the treatment?

    • ANSWER:

40. QUESTION:
    what is an average cost for lasik eye surgery?
    I need to know how much on average you think lasik eye surgery might be.

    • ANSWER:
      4000 - 7000

41. QUESTION:
    Lasik surgery age requirement in other countries?
    I know that in USA, you must be at least 18 to get LASIK surgery. What about different countries in Europe, is there any LASIK surgery that you can be less than 18?

    • ANSWER:
      general rule is

      you must be at least 20'ish or something, where ur eye no longer change in shape/size anymore,

      otherwise whats the point of doing it, if after surgery and ur eye grow/change again, which end up with prescriptions again.

42. QUESTION:
    What is the advantages of LASEK over LASIK?
    I am going to get corrective surgery and my doctor said that I am a candidate for both. He said that maybe LASEK would be better for me but it is a much longer recovery time. So I was wondering if there is any advantages to have Lasek over lasik?

    • ANSWER:
      Lasek corrective surgery is probably the better way to go -

      It is better if your cornea is on the thin side.-

      It is a newer method than Lasik - but seems to have better results - especially if your cornea is on the thin side.

      I would go with what your opthomoligist suggests is the best way.

43. QUESTION:
    could I join the army if I have bad vision but fix it with lasik eye surgery?
    I wanted to join the army, but my vision is so bad, I can't even read something a foot away from me so I am near sighted. I wanted to get lasik eye surgery and if all goes well I wondered if I could join the army. I also wanted to go to college a become a FBI profiler. I know my plan sounds complicated but that's what I want to do.

    • ANSWER:
      If you join the army and qualify for it, they will pay for your lasik eye surgery. You have to get checked out at MEPS first.

44. QUESTION:
    what is the difference between lasik and phacoemulsification?
    why is one not recommended to do phacoemulsification instead of lasik. that would solve all lens and number problems once and for all

    • ANSWER:
      Haai...Lasik and Phaco are two entirely diffrent surgeries. Lasik is done to correct refractory errors like Myopia, Hyperopia and Astigmatism. Phaco is done to remove cataracts. Cataract is a opacification of the natural lens inside the eye. Lasik is done externally on the cornea.

      So you cannot alternate lasik and Phaco.

      I am an Ophthalmologist from Chennai India

      Pranav eye Care
      Dr.sen

45. QUESTION:
    What is the army's policy with respect to lasik eye surgery?
    I am currently deployed to iraq and going on leave soon and was wondering if there would be a way to get lasik eye surgery paid for by the army. what is the policy on this? I am a deployed national guardsman

    • ANSWER:
      I'm not sure about NG, but my husband is AD and got it paid for 100%. Since he was an ideal candidate for Lasik, his doc put his name on a waiting list. Took about 6 months, they took him down to Ft Hood to get the surgery. Stayed there for a day, he (as well as about 5 others that day) were driven back the next day. Got a few checkups and has had perfect vision ever since.

46. QUESTION:
    what are some requirements to be a good candidate for lasik?
    my main question is the one in the title, but i do have a few others.

    is it possible to have a genetic problem with ur eyes where ur eyesight gets worse faster than a "normal person"? I am asking this question becuz i am 5 years younger than my brother and we both use the computer about the same number of hours a day (he might even use it more than me), but my eyesight is MUCH worse than his.

    wat is the recommended age to get lasik?

    • ANSWER:
      25-30 years old is a good age as long as your prescription has not rapidly changed within the last few years. The best time to get ask is when your prescription stabilizes. As far as yours and your brothers prescriptions being so different its all in genetics has nothing to do with how much time someone spends on the computer. You may have had a eye problem at a much younger age that was overlooked at the time which he may not have had. If it is not taken care of at an early age it is going to only get worse. It could never hurt just to go have a consultation for ask. But one thing you should know is that once you reach right around 40 you will become more presbyopia and need reading glasses so it's not going to make it so you never have to wear glasses again.

47. QUESTION:
    Is it worth paying more for Lasik eye surgery?
    I see various prices for Lasik eye surgery. Is it worth paying more for Lasik eye surgery? Or is it a pretty straightforward procedure now and there is no reason to pay more for the procedure. Like to hear from anyone who got Lasik and what they felt about it.

    • ANSWER:
      There are a couple of different procedures depending on the condition of your eyes. Both me and my wife have had the surgery and I can tell you it is well worth the price. I suggest you shop around and compare prices. The difference is going to be in the services you get after the surgery. Good Luck!!!

48. QUESTION:
    How reliable is LASIK for someone who's eyes may not be done changing?
    I've been thinking about LASIK, but I have astigmatism; also while the changes in my eyes have been slowing down a lot with age (29 years old), I'm sure my prescription will need to be stronger again in a few years. What are my options? Does LASIK make sense, or will I just need surgery again in a few years?

    • ANSWER:
      There are guidelines that are used to gauge how stable your prescription is. If over a year there is little change, then in most cases you would be considered suitable.

      At your age, I would hardly imagine your prescription would do a whole lot of changing. In Australia, many surgeons offer retreatment over a given period should there be any change.

      A good idea would be to have an assessment at a laser clinic and they should be able to give you a good idea of what your likely outcome would be.

      Do you only have astigmatism? or are you myopic and astigmatic? The latter would usually have a better outcome.

49. QUESTION:
    What was your positive experience with LASIK?
    Feel free to share what your loved ones went through when they had LASIK, too.

    I have 20/20 vision in one eye, and the other is nearly perfect after two LASIK surgeries in it.

    • ANSWER:
      Lasik and Laser eye surgery is very safe nowadays. My cousin got her dental implants and lasik surgery in India by a company called Forerunners Healthcare. The Price for dental and lasik surgery is very less in India. She paid 25% of the price she was quoted in America.

      Forerunners Healthcare is very famous in India They arrange Dental surgery, jaw surgery, lasik eye surgery, Dental Implants etc for foreign patients in India. I read a lot about them in the Newspapers and magazines- about their patient stories.
      They arrange financing for USA, Canadian, UK and other international patients who plan to have surgery abroad for low cost, as dental and eye surgery is not covered by insurance. They also have photos pasted of their International patients. You can checkout their website. There are huge cost savings. As a doctor I personally believe that surgery can be easily handled in India, as the quality of healthcare available In India is simply best in the world. The surgeons are USA/UK trained and facilities are 5 star.

      http://www.forerunnershealthcare.com
      Hope this helps.

50. QUESTION:
    When you are getting Lasik eye surgery, can you see what is going on while they operate?
    I am thinking of getting Lasik eye surgery, but am really squeamish about having my eyeball touched, let alone having flaps on it pulled up ect. I heard they give you drops to numb the eye, but can you still see / tell when they are touching your eye while they are doing their thing?

    • ANSWER:
      I got Lasik done one year ago, it was the best thing I've ever done! However it took me 2 years to work up enough nerve because I was sooooo squeamish about my eyes. The morning I went in I was offered a valium( took it) and they numbed my eyes I could not tell a thing and could not believe how fast it was over. The dr. explained every step of the way and I could kick myself for not going sooner. All I can say is GO for IT!!!!