| Frequently Asked
Questions
What is Myopia?
For clear distant vision, the eye must focus incoming light rays directly on the retina. The cornea refracts (bends) these light rays to ensure that this occurs. However, if the cornea itself is curved too steeply or if the eye is too long, the focal point is in front of the retina rather than on it… and the resulting image seen, appears blurred. Myopia (or nearsightedness) is the name given to this blurry distance vision. A spectacle or contact lens of the appropriate power is used to move this image back onto the retina where it will appear clear. The laser surgery physically alters the focal point in a permanent way to do the same thing.
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What is Hyperopia?
What is hyperopia? Hyperopia (farsightedness) is when parallel light rays come to a focal spot behind the retina (in theory) and affect near and far vision. Healthy children have ample focussing power and, if hyperopic can unconsciously focus for near and far objects. As focusing ability gradually decreases with maturity, hyperopic individuals will notice loss of clear near vision. In hyperopia the eye is too short or the cornea is too flat. Laser surgery can alter the cornea to make it steeper to clear up distance vision without glasses or contact lenses, these patients may still require reading glasses due to age related changes.
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What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism exists when the cornea has two different curvatures resembling the curves of a football, rather than being spherical like a basketball. If a significant amount of astigmatism exists, vision is blurred and must be corrected to achieve clear vision. Both myopia and astigmatism can occur in the same eye. As with myopia, astigmatism can be corrected with a spectacle or contact lens and with excimer laser surgery as well.
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| 0 Diopter Astigmatism |
2 Diopters with the rule |
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What is the healing recovery time, and when will my vision be adequate to function at my normal activities?
The initial healing process occurs within three days. After the surface has been reestablished as smooth, the vision begins to improve. Normally, the vision improves dramatically by the first week post-operatively and continues to improve in the next few weeks to months following the surgery. By one week the vision is generally 20/30 (legal driving) or better for the majority of our low level nearsighted patients.
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What are the main benefits most of your patients comment on?
The benefits expressed by our refractive surgery patients are numerous. Comments such as "I can now see my clock in the morning", and " I can perform many daily activities without glasses or contact lenses" are common. Of course, the main benefit is the freedom to perform activities, including different sports without the need for glasses and contact lenses.
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How much time off work will be necessary?
Normally, three days off will be required, depending on your type of work. It may be necessary for additional time off, if for example, you work as an accountant or if you work as a pipe fitter where dust or grime may be of concern.
After the surgery, post operative appointments will be arranged. You will be required to attend a 1 day, 3 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 month, 6 month.
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What are the risks / side effect of having the surgery done?
There are minimal risks associated with Excimer Laser surgery, however, there are a few possible side effects that can occur. Corneal regression can occur due to the healing process of the individual ; genetics can also play a role. Corneal regression is when your vision requires correction after having the surgery performed. If this happens it can be treated with medications or a re-treatment with the laser.
Light sensitivity immediately following the surgery, which lasts for 1-2 weeks, haziness of the cornea commonly seen as halo’s or a starburst effect which is seen around bright lights which lasts between 3-6 months following the surgery.
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How much does the procedure cost?
For more information regarding fees and payment options, please click
here.
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What can I expect the day of surgery?
Click here to visit our Lasik surgery page in the Newsletters section
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