LASIK Questions

Frequently Asked LASIK Questions

Please take the time to read through these important FAQ regarding LASIK eye surgery in Houston:

1. How do I know if I am a good candidate for iLasik?
2. Why the IntraLase Method?
3. What is Custom iLasik?
4. What will happen during my iLasik procedure?
5. How long does the treatment take?
6. What if I move during the procedure?
7. What kind of vision can I expect and has anyone ever gone blind?
8. Will I be in any pain?
9. Where can I resume normal activities and exercise?
10. What does the Houston LASIK eye surgery cost?
11. What is an enhancement?
12. What are the side effects?

How do I know if I am a good candidate for LASIK?

The best way to find out if you are a good candidate for LASIK is to proceed with a LASIK evaluation. Our doctors will evaluate your current prescription, vision needs, and expectations. Additionally, we will explain the procedure and answer any questions you might have.

The majority of people are good candidates for the LASIK procedure. If you are at least 18 years old, in good general health with no existing eye disease and are either near sighted, far sighted or have astigmatism with a stable prescription for 1 year or greater, you are probably a candidate for the LASIK procedure.

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Why the IntraLase Method?

The traditional LASIK method uses a microkeratome (or blade) to create the flap, whereas the IntraLase Method uses a laser for a totally-blade free procedure. Due to its consistently predictable outcomes, our surgeons use the IntraLase Method exclusively. For more information about the IntraLase Method, please visit www.intralasefacts.com

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What Is Custom LASIK?

Custom LASIK, also known as Advanced CustomVue Wavefront uses 3-dimensional measurements of how your eye processes images to guide the laser in re-shaping the front part of the eye (cornea). When considering FDA-approved laser vision correction, only the LASIK procedure offers the world’s most-advanced, custom-vision-correction technologies in one safe proven all-laser procedure. More procedures have been done with the VISX CustomVue lasers than any other in the U.S.

It is the only laser that uses the advanced CustomVue treatment to allow for Custom LASIK vision correction with measurement precision 25 times greater than conventional LASIK. It has an eye tracker that follows the eye during the procedure reducing problems associated with eye movements during the treatment. It is the only laser that tracks the eye in all three dimensions and the only laser that adjusts for the rotation of the eye when people lie down using advanced iris registration technology.

Today the VISX laser is the most widely used laser in the U.S. for laser vision correction. Just like a fingerprint, each person’s vision is 100 percent unique to their eyes. Before recent advancements in technology, doctors were only able to use standard measurements to correct vision, meaning that prescriptions could only provide a certain level of correction. Now through the use of sophisticated computers, we can measure very subtle irregularities that can be smoothed out with the laser and many times result in vision better than 20/20 and giving better night vision as well.

An independent study recently conducted by the U.S. Navy demonstrates that for individuals who require Custom LASIK, this procedure produces better quality outcomes compared to conventional LASIK for vision correction. The study, the first of its kind, found that 97% of patients who met the requirements for Custom LASIK acquired 20/20 vision, versus 88% with conventional LASIK.

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What will happen during my LASIK procedure?

You will arrive 60 minutes prior to the procedure to take a mild sedative (Valium). You will be given numbing drops so you won’t feel pain. Your surgeon will discuss the procedure once again with you and answer any questions you might have. The LASIK procedure only takes a few minutes.

The IntraLase laser is used to make a thin flap in your cornea. The flap is then lifted and the VISX laser is used to reshape your cornea based on your unique vision/eye characteristics. This correction is completely computer driven. It’s safe, fast and painless. You will be checked approximately 10 minutes later by one of our doctors then you should go home and rest with your eyes closed the rest of the day. You will be in our office for approximately 2 1/2 hours. A doctor will check you the next day and most people are already seeing close to 20/20!

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How long does the treatment take?

The laser treatment itself takes about 15-40 seconds, based on the degree of correction necessary. The total process is approximately 5 minutes per eye. Typically, you’ll notice an improvement in your sight immediately, and you can usually go back to work and drive the next day.

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What if I move my eye during the procedure?

With the VISX S4 Trak laser system you do not have to worry about eye movements. The laser’s tracking system is designed to follow any eye movements and maintain your precise treatment.

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What kind of vision can I expect and has anyone ever gone blind?

Each person’s eyes are different, but the goal of the doctors at the Eye Center of Texas is to give the patient their best-corrected visual acuity possible. 98% of nearsighted patients receiving CustomVue LASIK can see 20/20 or better and 70% see better than 20/20.

Combined, Dr. Mayo and Dr. Wade have performed more than 60,000 LASIK procedures and have not had any his patients “go blind”.

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Will I be in any pain?

The treatment itself is painless. Before your procedure begins your surgeon will numb your eye with an anesthetic drop. You may feel a pressure sensation as the corneal flap is being made, but actual pain is extremely rare. Some patients may experience a little discomfort after the procedure, but sleep and lubricating eye drops, as well as Advil or Tylenol, is usually sufficient to take care of any discomfort.

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When can I resume normal activities and exercise?

You can resume most normal activities such as driving, working and reading the day after surgery. For women, eye makeup cannot be worn for one week. You may resume exercise 7 days after surgery. We ask that you refrain from swimming for 2 weeks and scuba diving 4 weeks after surgery.

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What is the Houston LASIK eye surgery cost?

For about the price of a daily cup of coffee, you can have LASIK!  We offer the two most advanced technologies; the IntraLase Laser and the FDA approved excimer lasers for Advanced CustomVue Wavefront-Guided treatments. Because our clinic specializes in laser vision correction we feel our fees are competitive, yet fair and our patients tell us the added levels of experience, safety, and assurance offered by the doctors and staff is well worth the cost when considering laser vision correction surgery.

Schedule a no-obligation LASIK consultation. This is the “First Step”. The LASIK evaluation is designed not only to determine if you’re a good candidate for LASIK but to also help you become more familiar with the surgery process and answer all your questions and concerns. One of our skilled doctors will begin the evaluation with a thorough exam. After a review of your medical history, we will perform corneal topography testing and examine your corneal thickness. This exam requires your eyes to be fully dilated. At the end of your exam, we’ll be able to tell if you are a good candidate for LASIK or if another type of technology is more suitable.

When shopping for price, make sure you are getting the whole cost. Does the quoted price include everything?  Our prices are all inclusive; one price covers all pre-operative tests, LASIK surgery and all post-operative appointments for one year. We also offer a “Limited Lifetime Warranty”, which will be discussed during your LASIK evaluation.

We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover Card, and checks. Eye Center of Texas does not want finances to get in the way of excellent vision; therefore we offer affordable payment plans through Care Credit link (12 and 24 months same as cash as well as longer-term loans to qualified candidates).

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What is an enhancement?

If the goal of the surgery was not achieved with the initial LASIK procedure, we may need to “fine tune” your vision with another procedure called an enhancement. The enhancement is similar to the first surgery and is typically done no sooner than three months after the initial procedure.

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What are the side effects?

The most common side effect of LASIK is dry eyes. It usually lasts three to six months and can be treated with medicated eye drops. Some patients may develop severe dry eye syndrome. As a result of surgery, your eye may not be able to produce enough tears to keep the eye moist and comfortable. Dry eye not only causes discomfort but also can reduce vision due to intermittent blurring and other visual symptoms. This condition may be permanent. Intensive drop therapy and use of plugs or other procedures may be required.

Other possible side effects of LASIK are halos around lights, particularly at night, reduced vision due to glare from lights or the sun and a scratchy sensation due to dry eyes after LASIK surgery. The under or overcorrection of the vision error is possible and may require additional surgery. Pink or red spots on the white of the eye may be visible after LASIK surgery.

Severe side effects are less common but still possible. As with most surgical procedures, infection and inflammation may occur requiring antibiotics or even another surgery. A problem with the corneal flap such as wrinkles or a shifted flap, although rare, could require surgical treatment. There is a small chance that, even after additional surgery, vision will be worse than it was before surgery.

Your chances of experiencing side effects from LASIK eye surgery increase if you already suffer from certain eye conditions such as dry eye, Keratoconus (deterioration of the cornea), thin corneas, and previous eye surgeries. Other health issues also can contribute to problems with LASIK surgery. A comprehensive evaluation for complicating conditions should be completed before undergoing the operation.

DISCLAIMER: Results may vary. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with CustomVue treatments. Eye Center of Texas wishes to disclose any an all risks associated with iLASIK, LASIK, and PRK. Please click here to learn more about risks associated with these procedures.