Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the LASIK procedure take?
The entire procedure from start to finish usually takes about 15 minutes. The laser treatment itself takes only about a minute.
When can I expect to see vision improvements after LASIK?
Vision improvement should be noticeable within a few days after surgery and complete recovery will take up to 6 weeks. Vision improvements will be gradual and should reach the final state within 6 months.
I have heard talk about a number of other laser vision correction procedures such as AK, RK, CK, and LASEK. Why does this website not cover these procedures?
Because of similarities between the procedures, there has been a lot of confusion about them. Our doctors are very knowledgeable about all options available and can discuss the best option for you at your consultation.
Can anyone who wears glasses or contacts have LASIK?
No. First there are certain criteria that must be met. Please click here to see if you meet the criteria. Yet, even if you meet the criteria, that does not guarantee that you are a candidate for LASIK. There are many other factors involved which can be discussed during your consultation.
What causes nearsightedness?
Myopia most often occurs because the eyeball is too long, rather than the normal, more rounded shape. Another less frequent cause of myopia is that the cornea, the eyes' clear outer window, is too curved. There is some evidence that nearsightedness may also be caused by too much close vision work.
What causes farsightedness?
Hypermetropia most commonly occurs because the eyeball is too short; that is, shorter from front to back than is normal. In some cases, hypermetropia may be caused by the cornea having too little curvature.
Exactly why eyeball shape varies is not known, but the tendency for farsightedness is inherited. Other factors may be involved too, but to a lesser degree than heredity. |
Cataract FAQ's
Glaucoma FAQ's
LASIK FAQ's
Nearsightedness FAQ's
Farsightedness FAQ's
Can a cataract spread from one eye to the other?
No, a cataract will not spread from one eye to the other, although many people do develop cataracts in both eyes.
How effective is cataract surgery?
Cataract removal is one of the most common operations performed in the U.S. today. It is also one of the safest and most effective. In about 90 percent of cases, people who have cataract surgery have better vision afterward.
What happens during cataract surgery?
When you enter the hospital or clinic, you will be given eye drops to dilate the pupil. The area around your eye will be washed and cleansed.
The operation usually lasts less than 1 hour and is almost painless. Many people choose to stay awake during surgery, while others may need to be put to sleep for a short time. If you are awake, you will have an anesthetic to numb the nerves in and around your eye.
After the operation, a patch will be placed over your eye and you will rest for a while. You will be watched by your medical team to see if there are any problems, such as bleeding. Most people who have cataract surgery can go home the same day. Since you will not be able to drive, make sure you make arrangements for a ride.
What research is being done on cataracts?
The NEI is conducting and supporting a number of studies, such as the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). In this nationwide clinical study, scientists are examining how cataracts develop and what factors put people at risk for developing them. Also, they are looking at whether certain vitamins prevent or delay cataract development.
Other research is focusing on new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat cataracts. In addition, scientists are studying the role of genetics in the development of cataracts.
Can a cataract come back after cataract surgery?
Yes. Sometimes a part of the natural lens that is not removed during cataract surgery becomes cloudy and may blur your vision. This is called an after-cataract. An after-cataract can develop months or years later.
Unlike a cataract, an after-cataract is treated with a laser. In a technique called YAG laser capsulotomy, your doctor uses a laser beam to make a tiny hole in the lens to let light pass through. This is a painless outpatient procedure.
Can glaucoma be treated?
Yes. Although you will never be cured of glaucoma, treatment often can control it. This makes early diagnosis and treatment important to protect your sight. Most doctors use medications for newly diagnosed glaucoma; however, new research findings show that laser surgery is a safe and effective alternative.
Who is at risk for glaucoma
Although anyone can get glaucoma, some people are at higher risk than others. They include:
- Everyone over 60
- African Americans over the age of 45
- Everyone with a parent or sibling with glaucoma
What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
At first, open-angle glaucoma has no symptoms. Vision stays normal, and there is no pain. As glaucoma remains untreated, people may notice that although they see things clearly in front of them, they miss objects to the side and out of the corner of their eye.
Without treatment, people with glaucoma may find that they suddenly have no side vision. It may seem as though they are looking through a tunnel. Over time, the remaining forward vision may decrease until there is no vision left.
|
