Laser Vision Correction
- What is LASIK?
- What is the WaveScan system?
- What is CustomVue LASIK?
- What is the Blade-Free IntraLase Method?
- What are the steps prior to LASIK?
- What should be expected the day of surgery?
- When are results expected?
- What are the payment options?
- Important iLASIK Links
What is LASIK?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted-In-Situ Keratomileusis) is currently one of the most frequently performed elective procedures in the United States. It is a highly effective outpatient procedure used to correct most ranges of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. The doctors at Katzen Eye Group continue to be leaders in laser vision correction.
Critical to an excellent visual outcome is the right choice of treatment and technology. Katzen Eye Group is one of only two practices in the Baltimore area featuring iLASIK. iLASIK combines the advanced WaveScan® system to complete an in-depth evaluation of your eyes, the innovative blade-free Intralase method to create the flap and the sophisticated VISX Star S4 Excimer Laser system to reshape the cornea. These state-of-the-art technology options, along with our extensive surgical expertise, create an advantage that offers each LASIK patient increased predictability, a safer procedure and a more precise visual outcome. This new combination of technology is also approved by NASA, the military and law enforcement attributing to iLASIK's results.
BACK TO TOPWhat is the WaveScan system?
The WaveScan system creates a map of the eye, much like a fingerprint, that allows the doctor to formulate a specialized treatment plan for each patient. Even though two patients may have the same prescription, their eyes are not the same. The WaveScan analyzes your optical pathway and creates a pattern of vision based on how the light is bent. By having this fingerprint of your vision, the doctor can determine your candidacy for laser vision correction.
BACK TO TOPWhat is CustomVue LASIK?
CustomVue LASIK uses the WaveScan® system to measure the way light travels through your eyes. This 3-D map provides information about the unique visual characteristics of your eyes, enabling the doctors at Katzen Eye Group to customize your surgical treatment.
By specifically addressing your individual corneal mapping, we can provide a more effective way to achieve enhanced vision without glasses or contact lenses.
BACK TO TOPWhat is the Blade-Free Intralase Method?
During the iLASIK procedure, a flap of corneal tissue is created. This allows the surgeon to perform the laser vision correction treatment on the inner layer of the cornea. iLASIK uses the blade-free Intralase method to create that flap. Patients who were previously not candidates for the standard LASIK procedure may now be eligible with iLASIK.
BACK TO TOPWhat are the steps prior to LASIK?
Prior to the procedure, patients will receive a comprehensive FREE evaluation*. The comprehensive evaluation includes:
- Fully dilated medical examination of your eyes
- Vision analysis before and after dilation
- Measurement of the curvature and topography of the cornea
- Measurement of the thickness of the cornea
- Pupil evaluation
* The LASIK evaluation is not a substitute for a comprehensive annual eye exam.
BACK TO TOPWhat should be expected the day of surgery?
Once your treatment plan has been determined, you will be given a surgery date. Typically, Katzen Eye Group performs LASIK procedures on Fridays, allowing the patient to fully recuperate over the weekend. You will be asked to arrive 20-30 minutes prior to your surgery to allow time to review your consent form and to go over any questions you may have. Numbing eye drops will be used to alleviate any discomfort during the procedure. Then an eyelid holder will be used to help keep you from blinking.
Next, the surgeon will create a protective flap in the cornea. The laser will then be applied to the newly exposed cornea. During the laser procedure you might feel a light pressure but no discomfort. This part of the treatment can last anywhere from 10 to 60 seconds.
At the conclusion of the laser treatment, the flap will be positioned back in place and will bond naturally with the eye. Following a 20- to 30-minute post operative period, each patient will be examined prior to leaving the surgery center. Your one-day and one-week appointments will also be confirmed at this time.
BACK TO TOPWhen are results expected?
Most LASIK patients will notice a dramatic change in vision within the first 24 hours after the procedure. This will gradually improve over the next several weeks, depending on your prescription. Generally, normal daily activities can be resumed within one to three days after the procedure.
It is important to follow the directions of your physician after the surgery and attend all of the post-procedure appointments.
BACK TO TOPWhat are the payment options?
LASIK is safe and affordable. To make it convenient for you, Katzen Eye Group offers different payment options through CareCredit, including no interest and extended payment plans. Additionally, many patients can choose to pay with funds from their Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or, in rare cases, insurance coverage. While most insurance companies do not cover LASIK surgery, many offer 20% discounts for their policy holders. The following list* provides insurance companies that offer laser vision correction discounts that participate with Katzen Eye Group.
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Please note that insurance discounts cannot be combined with any other promotion or discount.
* List is subject to change. Please check with your insurance company to find out about their latest laser vision correction policies.
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