iLASIK Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the difference between LASIK and iLASIK?LASIK surgery uses a laser to change the curvature of the cornea (front surface of the eye). If the shape of the eye is modified, light can properly focus on the retina (back of eye). At VisionFirst, we perform a more customized procedure called iLASIK. Our Wavefront technology enables each treatment to be “designed” by the unique characteristics of the individuals’ eyes by producing a detailed map of the eye. After the blade-free Intralase method creates the corneal flap, this information is then translated into a set of CustomVue treatment instructions for the laser providing a new level of precision and accuracy.
How do I know if I am a candidate for iLASIK?
We’ll provide you with a complimentary initial screening that usually takes less than 30 minutes. We will start by measuring your prescription, showing you an informative video and talking you through any questions or concerns. A preliminary determination will be made as to whether you are a candidate for laser vision correction.
If I am a candidate, what’s the next step?
If you are an iLASIK candidate, we will perform an extensive exam before your procedure. This comprehensive examination takes approximately 2 hours. To assure your best visual outcome, we ask that you leave soft contact lenses out for one week and hard contacts out four to six weeks prior to this exam. The cost of this comprehensive examination is $125.00. Watch the pre-op webisode in our Beyond The Big E series.
Is the procedure painful?
Not at all. Patients are given a mild sedative and anesthetizing eye drops prior to the procedure. Following surgery, eyes may temporarily feel scratchy, but this isn’t a problem for most patients. Some patients experience a mild sensitivity to light but this will subside as well. Watch the iLASIK procedure in our Beyond The Big E webisode series.
When will I be able to return to work?
Many patients return to work the day after the procedure. Dr. Hays will discuss which, if any, work activities should be limited during the postoperative period.
Are the results permanent?
Laser Vision Correction is considered permanent. However, it does not prevent age-related conditions such as cataracts and presbyopia.
Does insurance cover the costs?
Laser vision correction is considered a cosmetic elective procedure typically not covered by insurance companies. We do however offer several payment options.
How much can I expect to pay for iLASIK?
VisionFirst Lakeshore Laser provides an individually tailored vision correction at a cost of $2400 per eye. This amount includes post-surgery physician care. Payment options are available and may be discussed at the time of your initial exam.
How long will the procedure last?
The actual treatment time generally requires less than ten minutes per eye. Patients should expect to spend approximately two hours at VisionFirst Lakeshore Laser on the day of their surgery.
Will I receive any anesthesia before surgery?
We will give you a mild sedative and anesthetizing eye drops prior to the iLASIK. This helps patient relax and go to sleep after the procedure. Click here to watch Jordan’s Surgery Day webisode.
If I have really bad astigmatism, am I a candidate for iLASIK?
Generally iLASIK is an excellent treatment for astigmatism. However, the initial screening and eye exam will provide a more conclusive answer.
I have never had to wear eyeglasses until just recently, and now only wear them to read. Will iLASIK correct this?
Unfortunately, iLASIK is not the best option to get rid of your reading glasses. As we age, the lens in the eye loses its ability to bend, which is what allows us to see both up close and far away. That is why most people over 40, who have never had difficulty with their vision, suddenly need reading glasses. This condition is called presbyopia. Laser Vision Correction will not help restore the flexibility of your lens, but there are several other options that you should discuss with our iLASIK counselor.
Visian ICL Frequently Asked Questions:
I’ve been told that I am not a candidate for LASIK. Are there any other options available to correct my vision?You may be a candidate for the Visian ICL. This is a Collamer lens that is surgically implanted in your eye, behind your iris. This procedure is completely reversible, and provides crisp, clear vision. The company that created the Visian ICL is now working on an intraocular contact lens for patients with astigmatism. Watch Taitha’s Visian ICL Surgery Day webisode.
Am I a candidate for the Visian ICL?
The implantable Collamer lens works best for patients who suffer from moderate to severe myopia, but have not had other ophthalmic surgeries. Those between the ages of 21 and 45 without a history of ophthalmic diseases such as glaucoma, iritis, or diabetic retinopathy make the best candidates for the Visian ICL. Click here to watch the Beyond the Big E Top Ten webisode.
What are the advantages of the Visian ICL?
The Visian ICL can correct a wide range of myopia without removing or destroying the cornea’s delicate tissue. During this surgical eye correction procedure, the doctor makes a tiny incision about 3 mm long. This incision will not require sutures. It is just large enough to insert the Visian ICL, a small, foldable, injectable lens. The lens is made of an advanced biocompatible material called Collamer. Because the Visian ICL is placed inside the eye, refractive outcomes and optical performance are consistent. The result is excellent quality of vision. Watch Taitha’s Visian ICL Surgery Day webisode.
What if a patient’s vision changes?
The Visian ICL may be removed or replaced if eyesight changes. Another surgical eye correction can be done to correct the discrepancy. Eyeglasses and contact lenses may also be worn if correction becomes necessary. The phakic IOL cannot be used to treat presbyopia, the need for reading glasses due to age.
Can the lenses dry out or get dirty like a contact lens?
No. The Visian ICL is designed to be a maintenance-free eye correction treatment. We recommend you continue to have annual ophthalmology exams to ensure that your eyes stay healthy.
Can the Visian ICL be seen by the naked eye?
No. Your vision correction lens will be completely invisible to you and all observers. The Visian ICL is hidden behind the iris, resulting in a perfect cosmetic appearance. Only medical professionals will be able to determine that there is a lens in place.
What is the Visian ICL made of?
The Visian ICL uses a collagen co-polymer material called Collamer, which is proprietary to STAAR Surgical Company. It contains a small amount of purified collagen and is very stable and biocompatible, which means it will not cause a reaction in your eye. Additionally, it contains an ultraviolet light filter. Watch Taitha’s Visian ICL Surgery Day webisode.
How long will the Visian ICL stay in the eye?
The Visian ICL is intended to remain in place without maintenance. If for any reason removal of the lens becomes necessary, it can be easily taken out by a Visian ICL trained ophthalmic surgeon.
Can the Visian ICL be felt once it is in place?
Because the Visian ICL does not attach to any eye structures or move around in the eye, most patients do not feel it or notice that it is there.
