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Here’s “the science” of LASIK:
Using a cool (non-thermal) beam of light, the surgeon precisely reshapes the cornea so images are conveyed more distinctly to the retina. The procedure is done in two steps: one laser creates a small flap on the cornea and another type of laser changes the corneal surface.
The way the cornea is altered during laser eye surgery depends on the vision abnormality being treated. For nearsightedness, bits of tissue are removed to flatten the cornea. To correct farsightedness, the surgeon steepens the cornea. Astigmatism is treated by smoothing out irregularities along the surface of the cornea.
At ICON Eyecare, we recognize that you might have some concerns about undergoing eye surgery. To help you make the decision, we offer a free consultation and eye exam using advanced diagnostic tools and pupil dilation. This provides a full picture of your current prescription, age, corneal shape and thickness, pupil size, and presence of dry eye, to determine if LASIK will be effective and safe for you. Typically, if you don’t suffer from any underlying eye disorders like glaucoma, cataracts, or severe dry eye, and have had no major changes in your eyeglass prescription for a year, you‘ll be a good candidate for refractive surgery.
If LASIK isn’t right for you, we offer several other procedures as alternatives to LASIK. Take our LASIK self-test to find out how you could benefit from the laser vision correction surgery.
Due to advances in laser technology, we can treat most patients with astigmatism, more so than we could in the past. During your free consultation, we’ll discuss if LASIK is right for your unique case.
On the day of your surgery, you’ll be at our center between two and three hours. This gives our doctors and office staff time to review the procedure, complete the required consent forms, and arrange payment. Then, the doctor will prepare and numb your eye.
The actual laser treatment lasts less than one minute, with the entire procedure being completed within about 15 minutes. After LASIK, you’ll stay at the center for 20 to 30 minutes to rest and undergo a brief exam. Your vision will be blurry immediately following the procedure, so please have someone there to drive you home.
You’ll experience virtually no pain during your LASIK procedure. Although you’ll be awake, your surgeon will numb your eyes with anesthetic drops. The only sensation you might feel is pressure on the eye. In addition, you’ll be offered the option to take a mild sedative before your laser vision correction procedure to ensure that you feel calm, comfortable, and relaxed throughout the process.
After the numbing medication wears off, some people report a mild, scratchy or sore sensation for a day or so. Others report no issues at all. It truly depends on the person. Remember, you’ll also see your ICON doctor the day after your procedure, so any of these concerns can be addressed, in person.
Every surgical procedure carries a slight risk, but LASIK has proven to be safe and effective.
A very small percentage of patients report minor after-effects. Dry eye is the most commonly reported, followed by reports of nighttime glare. A 2014 FDA study documented the rare incidences of complications along with high patient satisfaction. More than 95% of patients in the study achieved 20/20 vision or better after their procedure and all were very satisfied with their results. A 2015 study reported a 98.5% patient satisfaction rate with the LASIK procedure overall.
Yes, you can! It’s more convenient to treat both eyes at the same time, but there is no extra fee if you choose to have each one done separately. The procedure is safe and effective either way.
ICON’s state-of-the-art lasers are equipped with eye-tracking technology, making it even more precise with better results. If your eye moves, the laser stops.
Most patients return to normal activities (including driving and working) the next day, although we recommend you take a long nap immediately following your procedure. You should avoid certain activities (swimming, vigorous workouts, rubbing your eyes) for a period of time after the surgery.
Many patients report greatly improved vision as soon as they sit up after the procedure, with many more seeing significant improvement by their first follow-up visit. We schedule regular follow-up visits after the surgery to ensure your eyes are healing properly.
We are committed to making ICON Eyecare’s all-laser LASIK procedure affordable for every patient. During your free consultation, we’ll discuss your customized treatment package and price.
The price will include:
*Subject to credit approval.
In addition, our Vision Commitment Plan is our warranty guaranteeing your LASIK results. If you require further vision enhancement after your procedure, you’ll receive those services free of charge.
There are several ways you can pay for your LASIK procedure:
Whatever payment method you choose, we’ll work with you to make sure this life-changing procedure is affordable and fits within your budget. If you’re interested in exploring our financing options, our team will be happy to help you apply for a payment plan after your free LASIK screening.
*Subject to credit approval
Most insurance companies consider LASIK eye surgery an elective procedure, and therefore, will not cover the cost. However, our staff can review your employer’s insurance policy to determine if any discounts are available.
The overwhelming majority of LASIK patients no longer need to wear glasses after their LASIK procedure. Rarely after LASIK, some patients might still need glasses for certain situations, such as driving at night. Your individual results, based on your current prescription and age, will be discussed at your Free Consultation.
We are now offering extended evening hours for LASIK/Refractive Consultations! To schedule, you may either call us during the weekday hours of 8 a.m. – 5p.m., Monday – Friday, at (970) 256-0400. Or, please, fill out the form below to schedule your LASIK/Refractive Consultation.
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