About LASIK
LASIK (Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photo-Refractive Keratectomy) are the two most common forms of laser vision correction (LVC). Both procedures use the excimer laser to reshape the corneal curvature. Reshaping the corneal surface allows the light to properly focus on the retina (as with glasses and contacts), providing clear vision. Laser eye surgery is becoming increasingly popular as people discover how much it can change their lives.
What are the goals of Laser Vision Correction surgery?
The goal of surgery is to reduce the need for glasses and contact lenses, allowing you to go about your daily routine without needing corrective lenses. Our surgeons personally discuss with each patient their individual needs and expectations. LVC may also be used to treat residual amounts of nearsightedness (myopia), or farsightedness (hyperopia) following other forms of refractive and cataract surgery.
What is the difference between LASIK and PRK?
With LASIK, the cornea is treated by first using an instrument called a microkeratome to create a corneal flap. Next, the laser is used to reshape the central cornea underneath the flap. With PRK, the laser is used to directly treat the front surface of the eye. Both procedures can be used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. PRK has been performed in this country since 1988, and LASIK since 1991. During your consultation, our surgeons will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure which may vary depending on the individual.
How is the LASIK procedure performed?
The eyes are first anesthetized with drops and the surrounding area cleaned. Inadvertent blinking is prevented by using a comfortable lid speculum. The patient is asked to focus on a red blinking light. The corneal flap is created with the microkeratome and folded back. The laser is then used to vaporize a very thin layer of corneal tissue (0.2 microns per pulse) in a pattern customized to the patient's prescription. The corneal flap is then reflected back into position and medicated drops are applied. Surgery takes only a few minutes. Typically a protective eye shield is worn over the eye for the first day.
What if LASIK is not the best procedure for me?
During your examination, we gather important information regarding the health of your eye. The surgeon expertly measures your prescription as well as the shape and thickness of your cornea. Our goal is to help you select the procedure that will have the highest chance of achieving clear vision, while minimizing risks. Some patients have corneas that are thinner than average, and may not allow enough tissue to fully and safely treat their full prescription with LASIK. Patients with thinner corneas can often be treated with PRK. This procedure does not require a corneal flap, providing more corneal tissue for treatment.
How is PRK surgery performed?
Your eye is anesthetized with eye drops. The outermost layer of the cornea is removed with the laser, or mechanically with a special instrument. The laser is then used to remove a thin layer of corneal tissue similar to LASIK. Following the procedure, a special contact lens is applied, and is worn for 2-5 days as the eye heals.
Is there any pain?
The surgery itself is generally painless. After LASIK surgery, there may be some mild foreign-body sensation and light-sensitivity for a couple days. Following PRK, patients usually experience moderate discomfort for 3-5 days. Symptoms may be treated with oral medications and eye drops.
Are both eyes done at the same time?
Usually both eyes are treated at the same time. In some cases the surgeon or patient may elect to treat the eyes at different times.
What range of correction can be treated with laser?
In the U.S., the excimer laser procedure is approved for the treatment of nearsightedness up to -14.00 diopters, with astigmatism from 0.50 to 5.00 diopters. Farsightedness of +0.50 to +5.00, with up to 4.00 diopters of astigmatism may be treated.
What if I have astigmatism?
The excimer laser is approved to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Both LASIK and PRK are able to treat astigmatism right along with any nearsightedness or farsightedness. No additional procedures are necessary - it is all done at once.
Do I need to take time off from work?
With LASIK you may generally to return to work the next day. Although the vision is significantly improved the day after surgery, the vision will fluctuate as it heals. With PRK it may take several days for the vision to become clear enough to drive. With both procedures, individual healing times may vary.
Can my vision return to its original level after surgery?
Some patients experience a regression of the surgery depending on their individual healing response. Enhancement surgery may be done to "fine-tune" the result if a significant prescription remains 3-6 months after the original procedure. This is accomplished by lifting the original LASIK flap with a special instrument and applying more laser treatment.
What are the side effects of LASIK and PRK?
The most common side effects are light-sensitivity, halos/glare, and dryness. Undercorrection or overcorrection may occur. Glasses may be needed after surgery to provide the best possible vision. In rare instances, irregular corneal curvatures and/or haze may result, and glasses may not restore perfect vision. A more detailed discussion of these issues will take place during your comprehensive eye examination.
How old do I have to be for laser surgery?
Patients should be at least 18 years old, with a stable prescription for at least 6 months. There is no upper age limit as long as the eyes are otherwise healthy.
What if I am currently wearing contact lenses?
When you schedule your comprehensive eye examination, hard or gas permeable contacts should be out of your eyes 2-3 weeks prior to your exam. Soft lenses must be out for five days. Also, bring in your glasses if available.
Will my insurance company cover laser surgery?
A few insurance companies have plans that may cover PRK and LASIK. We will be happy to check coverage for you. If there is no coverage, we have a medical finance company that will help you obtain financing should you need it. We also accept VISA, MasterCard, AMEX and personal checks.
How do I get started if I am interested in Laser Vision Correction?
You may call any of our five offices to schedule your complimentary evaluation. If you are a good candidate and wish to proceed, we will schedule a comprehensive examination including dilation. This exam will take approximately one and a half hours, and give you the opportunity to interact with your doctor and have your questions answered.
Cataract Surgery
Cataract patients now have an option for excellent near and far vision after cataract surgery! Previously, individuals suffering from cataracts had only a mono-focal lens implant option after surgery. New multifocal IOL technology can now decrease dependence on glasses after surgery and give you a much broader range of vision. If you are seeking IOL lens options in Temecula, consult one of our qualified and experienced Inland Eye Specialists' surgeons to help you see better!
Cataract SurgeryPatient Financing
We aim to help you with any cost issues that patients may have if you are considering LASIK eye surgery. If cost is something that has been holding you back from vision correction please contact us as soon as possible to set up a consultation. Inland Eye Specialists offers financing on approved credit with low fixed monthly payments with no down payment and no pre-payment penalty.
Patient FinancingAll-Laser LASIK
Find out if you are LASIK candidate. Take our LASIK self-evaluation test and you will be contacted by one of our LASIK coordinators to discuss your candidacy. If you meet the requirements of our test we will suggest an in person pre-operative eye exam.
All-Laser LASIKOptical Shop
We offer over 4,000 high-quality frames to choose from and utilize the latest in lens technology. At Inland Eye Specialists, we also have a full-service optical lab on the premises, which allows us to fill your optical prescription quickly and accurately. We also dispense all types of contact lenses at competitive prices.
Optical ShopRequest an Appointment
