What is LASIK?
LASIK is Laser in-situ intra-lamellar keratomileusis. LASIK is a corrective procedure for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK is a computer driven laser treatment that can greatly reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. The laser is used to reshape the cornea to allow light to properly focus on the retina.

What happens when I have the LASIK procedure?
LASIK is an outpatient procedure. You will receive eyedrops to numb the eye and a gentle sedative by mouth to relax you. You lie under the laser instrument in a special reclining chair. The microkeratome is used to create the thin corneal flap. The flap is lifted and the computer-guided laser is used to reshape your cornea. The corneal flap is repositioned and allowed to seal itself back in place.

What can I expect after my LASIK procedure?
Some patients experience nearly 20/20 vision within one day of their procedure. Others take several days to achieve their best vision. Your eyes may feel dry and scratchy during the first 24 hours, but pain is unusual. Driving is discouraged until you vision is clear and comfortable.

What level of vision can be expected after LASIK?
LASIK studies have demonstrated that 96% of patients achieve 20/40 or better vision. This percentage may differ if you have a severe prescription, so please discuss this with your doctor.

Are there complications that can occur with LASIK?
Serious complications are uncommon with LASIK. However, complications can occur with any surgical procedure. Infection, damage to the flap, and epithelial ingrowth are some of the conditions that could require medical treatment or additional surgery. Risks include loss of vision, reduction of
the quality of vision, variable vision, double vision, glare, and halos.

Will I need reading glasses?
If you are over 40 years old, it is likely that you will still need reading glasses even after LASIK. As you get older, the lens of the eye stiffens, reducing the ability of the eye to focus up close. Some patients elect to undercorrect one eye, creating monovision. One eye will focus near and one eye will focus at a distance. Please discuss the limitations and benefits of this type of correction with your surgeon, especially regarding driving.

How do I find out more about LASIK?
Dr. Friedberg and Dr. Sambursky frequently present seminars to educate the public about LASIK.. Click here to see when and where the next seminar will be held. Our doctors also give complimentary consultations to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure.

How long does the LASIK procedure take?
You will be at the laser facility for about 1and 1/2 hours. You will be in the laser room for about 15 minutes. The laser treatment takes less than one minute per eye.

Will I be able to hold still for the procedure?
Yes, our patients have had no problem fixating on the light. Your head is held still with a special bean bag-like pillow. Your eye is gently held open to prevent blinking. You are asked to look at a red blinking light while the laser is performed. Your eye is anesthetized with a numbing drop so you cannot see or feel the invisible laser as it sculpts your cornea into its new shape.

What can I expect after my LASIK procedure?
Most patients have surgery on Friday and can go back to work by Monday. We place clear shields over your eyes to protect them while still allowing you to see. Your eyes may be a little scratchy the first 24 hours after Lasik, but pain is unusual. The next day, the surgeon will examine you. Most patients see at least 20/40 during their first examination.

Will I use eye drops?
Patients are given an antibiotic and a steroid eye drop to use 4 times a day for one week following LASIK. Artificial tear drops work well to make the eyes more comfortable and easier to focus for the first several weeks after the procedure.