LASIK & Laser Vision Correction

What is a laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction (LVC) involves the use of a special beam of light to reshape the surface of the eye in order to correct refractive errors.

What is LASIK and why is it the most popular laser vision correction procedure?
LASIK combines microsurgery with the eximer laser to reshape the eyes surface. Because it is relatively painless with rapid visual recovery for both eyes simultaneously, it has become the most popular of all refractive procedures.

Is the vision correction permanent and will I ever need to have it redone?
Yes, the correction of vision is permanent. Because it is possible to over or under correct the vision, some patients may need an additional treatment. This is called an enhancement.

If I need an enhancement, will this cost more money?
No. If performed within the first year of the initial LASIK, an enhancement is done at no
cost to the patient.

Has Dr. Casden had to do many enhancements?
At the risk of placing a jinx on myself, I will state that all of my LASIK patients have been so satisfied with their vision that I have never had to perform an enhancement.

Will I never need glasses again?
Not necessarily. LASIK is the correction for distance vision only At some point, usually
after age 40, all people begin to struggle with close vision such as reading and typically require reading glasses. This normal condition is called presbyopia.

Are they any corrective procedures available to avoid reading glasses?
Currently, there are no proven procedures to permanently correct presbyopia, with one exception. A multifocal plastic lens (trade name ARRAY) can be inserted in place of the eyes natural lens. I perform this routinely for cataract patients but this can also be done for a patient seeking correction of presbyopia.

I have heard a lot about new kinds of lasers for LASIK. Are these better for me? What do you use?
Advertising, in my opinion has become too focused on technology implying that "newer" is necessarily better. The real question should be what kind of laser has the surgeon had the most experience and best results with. For me and many other surgeons the VISX laser best satisfies these needs and provides the best results for my patients.

Is there pain during or after LASIK?
With the exception of a mild pressure sensation patients have no pain during LASIK for a few hours after the procedure. The eyes may tear and you may complain of a foreign body sensation, typically relieved by Tylenol.

How quickly will my vision recover and when can I resume regular activities?
By the morning after LASIK the majority of my patients see well enough to drive a car and many simply drive themselves to my office for their one-day follow-up visit. Computer work and reading can begin immediately and therefore work activities can resume as well Contact sports and swimming can resume in a week.

What kind of medications will I need postoperatively?
Typically, an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drop is given four times daily for about a week. Lubricant drops are used as well and patients are encouraged to continue these as moisture drops for the first few months.

Will insurance cover LASIK?
Most insurance plans do not cover LASIK, which they consider a cosmetic procedure. Financing plans are available through our office.

For further information, please call Jenny Bunleut, Refractive Surgery Coordinator at Acuity Eye Care. (203)794-0117