What is the best laser eye surgery option for me?
The procedure that is right for you depends on your specific refractive error, the severity of your refractive error, your unique eye anatomy and your treatment goals. Our team of doctors has many years of experience helping candidates like you find the most appropriate solution.
How soon after surgery will I be able to see?
Visual recovery varies by patient and by procedure. Most of our patients are able to see clearly within a few days of surgery. Minor visual fluctuations are normal after surgery, and your vision should improve day by day.
When can I drive after laser eye surgery?
You will not be able to drive yourself home from laser eye surgery, so please make arrangements for a friend or family member to take you. Most of our patients see well enough the day after surgery to confidently drive.
Are LASIK results permanent?
The improvements made during LASIK are permanent. Once corneal tissue has been removed, it cannot grow back.
However, LASIK does not prevent or delay other age-related changes from occurring in the visual system. Most notably, LASIK does not prevent the development of presbyopia (age-related loss of reading vision that happens after the age of 40) or cataracts (clouding of the lens that happens after the age of 60).
If I have RLE, will I need cataract surgery when I am older?
No. The artificial lens placed during RLE cannot develop cataracts.
How is SMILE different from LASIK and PRK?
SMILE does not involve the creation of a corneal flap or the removal of the surface corneal cells. During SMILE, a small lenticule of corneal tissue is removed to reshape the cornea and improve the eye’s focusing power. Although the results of SMILE are comparable to those of LASIK and PRK, patients do not have to worry about flap-based complications.
Will I be awake during laser eye surgery?
Yes. Your eyes will be numbed with anesthetic drops and you will be given an oral sedative medication to relax you. You should not feel any pain or discomfort during surgery, and the procedure will be over very quickly.
What is the difference between implantable contact lenses and refractive lens exchange?
Implantable contact lenses work with the natural structures of your eyes to enable clear vision. They can be removed if needed.
Refractive lens exchange involves removing your natural lens. Due to the way the procedure is performed, it is irreversible.