Frequently Asked Questions
What Is laser vision correction?
It is an outpatient treatment that uses a cool beam of light to gently sculpt the surface of the eye-the cornea- thereby improving vision. The light gently pulses to remove a microscopic amount of tissue, flattening the curvature of the cornea, allowing images to be more sharply focused on the retina.
What Is the Difference between PRK and LASIK?
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and LASIK (Laser-Assisted in-situ Keratomileusis) both utilize the VISX excimer Laser to remove corneal tissue in order to flatten the cornea. In the PRK procedure, the laser works on the surface of the cornea. With LASIK, the surgeon first creates a flap on the cornea and then uses the laser for the treatment below the corneal surface. Our surgeons have performed thousands of laser vision procedures, and were among the first to offer it in the Puget Sound area.
Is laser vision correction safe?
Over two million patients worldwide have had this treatment performed on them successfully.
Does laser vision correction hurt?
No, the treatment itself is painless. Topical anesthesia (eye drops) are applied just before the procedure to eliminate any pain. Most patients feel mild pressure during the procedure, and sometimes a mild scratchy sensation for a few hours after. Some patients may experience discomfort for one to three days after treatment. Many patients compare this to a sensation of sand in the eye. The LASIK procedure often results in less discomfort than PRK because the treatment takes place below the corneal surface You will be given some eye drops to help with any kind of discomfort.
How well will I see after laser vision correction?
Results vary with each individual. The large majority of people can expect vision similar to what they have with their glasses or contact lenses. In fact, 98% of our patients see well enough to pass a driver's test without corrective lenses. Vision may be slightly blurry days following the procedure and some patients experience small vision changes during the first several months, which is normal. The LASIK procedure often results in more rapid vision recovery than PRK.
How soon can I return to work?
Most patients can drive to their follow up appointment and return to work the next day, but this varies. Everyone heals at a different rate and we can't be sure when you can safely drive or perform your job; if you want to play it safe two or three days of recovery are suggested.
What are the risks?
There are risks with any medical procedure. Our Refractive Surgeons will discuss in great detail the risk factors with each patient, and if the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure based on their individual needs. The most common problem associated with laser vision correction is under-correction or over-correction. Fortunately these problems are usually not visually significant and can be treated. In a small percentage of patients, an enhancement may be required.
How do I know if I can have laser vision correction?
The best way to determine if you are a good candidate is to schedule a free consultation. At this appointment we will exam your eyes and determine if you are a candidate. In addition to meeting with one of our professional coordinators, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss your individual case.
Will I still need have to wear reading glasses?
Yes! In fact, if you are 40 or older and can take your glasses off to read, LASIK may abruptly precipitate your need for reading glasses. If you are in your 20's or 30's you'll have some time before this happens. For some, monovision (one eye corrected for near, the other for distance) is an alternative. This approach works in some patients. A contact lens trial for monovision is always required!
Another procedure called clear lensectomy is another way to address both far and near vision concerns after the age of 40. Discuss these options at your evaluation.
Why Choose us?
Laser vision correction is an out-patient procedure that helps restore natural vision and reduces dependence upon glasses and contact lenses. Our doctors and staff are committed to exceeding your expectations in laser vision correction. Our Board Certified physicians utilize the latest and most sophisticated instruments and techniques for laser vision correction, treating cataracts, monitoring glaucoma, fitting contact lenses and treating diseases of the retina.
Custom LASIK can open your eyes to a whole new world of clarity and boundless possibilities! Call today for a FREE LASIK Consultation with one of our highly experienced surgeons.
How Does it Work ?
Laser vision correction works by sculpting the cornea so that the light rays focus on the retina, thereby reducing or eliminating refractive errors. Myopia, commonly referred to as Nearsightedness, is a condition whereby light rays focus in the front of the retina instead of directly on the retina. Farsightedness or Hyperopia occurs when the eye is too short or the cornea is too flat. When this happens, visual images are focused behind the retina. Astigmatism is a condition in which light rays focus on multiple points of the retina. Laser vision can not correct a condition called presbyopia, which typically effects people over the age of 40 and results in the need for reading glasses.
The Visx excimer laser is an excellent tool to correct vision because of its precise accuracy. Developed by IBM as a tool to etch computer chips, the excimer laser allows the surgeons to remove corneal tissue with accuracy up to 0.25 microns with each pulse of the laser. To put it in perspective, a human hair is 125 microns in diameter!
Pacific Northwest Eye Associates commonly performs all types of laser vision correction procedures including PRK. These procedures use the VISX S4 with Iris Registration excimer laser to achieve safe, precise results.
LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis) is most commonly performed by our doctors because of the quick results and recovery time it provides. During LASIK, an instrument known as a microkeratome folds back a thin layer of corneal tissue. The excimer laser's cool light then gently pulses to remove a predetermined microscopic amount of tissue in order to sculpt the cornea's surface and correct the refractive error. The amount of tissue to be removed is dependent on the eye's curvature. If you are nearsighted, your cornea will be made flatter, if you are farsighted, the doctor will be making your cornea steeper and if you have astigmatism, your cornea will be made more spherical. After the laser work is complete, the flap is placed back in position where it will naturally bond without stitches or bandages.
PRK (photo refractive keratectomy) is very similar to LASIK except a corneal flap is never made. Instead, the eye's outer skin, called the epithelium is removed. Next, as in LASIK, the excimer laser is used to shape the surface of the cornea, resulting in better vision. Finally, a temporary contact lens is gently placed over the cornea to act as a bandage, this is a non prescription contact lens.
Multi-Focal Intraocular Lenses Pacific Northwest Eye provides the most contemporary technology in every ophthalmic field, and is proud to offer multi-focal lens implantation for those suffering from cataracts. In the past, those diagnosed with cataracts were confined to receiving one treatment, a monofocal lens, which offered a correction for distance alone. Multi-focal lenses like Alcon's ReSTOR and AMO's ReZoom offer potential correction of distance and near vision, reducing the dependence on bifocals. Depending on your visual needs, general eye health and the doctors recommendation, multi-focal lens may be the answer for your. If poor eye sight is a burden to you, give us a call to schedule a FREE consultation to see what surgery is right for you.