Laser vision correction is one of the most exciting technological advances in the history of eye care. LASIK stands for Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. A wide range of myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism can be corrected with LASIK. It is a simple outpatient procedure with a quick recovery time. Your vision stabilizes rapidly, and you can expect to have little or no discomfort following LASIK. Most patients have driving vision within 24 hours of treatment.
The word "LASIK" has now become a generic term that describes all types of vision correction, however, LASIK is only one specific, albeit popular, treatment option. The problem is that not everyone is a LASIK candidate because no two eyes are exactly alike. But finding the right solution for you is only a complimentary consultation away.
LASIK corrects your vision by reshaping the cornea (outer window of the eye) so that light rays focus more precisely on the retina, thereby reducing or eliminating refractive errors.
There are three distinct steps performed during a LASIK procedure:
1. The creation of the corneal flap, which is a thin segment of the outer layer of the cornea. This step is performed with a mechanical device called a microkeratome. Dr. Singla now uses teh "blade-free" approach with the new IntraLase laser.
2. The flap is lifted and an excimer laser is used to re-shape the underlying corneal tissue to correct the irregularities. This second step in Custom LASIK is based on an individual 3D map taken of the eye, so that the most precise corrections are possible.
3.The flap is folded back into place where it bonds quickly. Healing is rapid, and most people can return to work within 24-48 hours after LASIK. The actual LASIK procedure takes only minutes per eye. You can expect to feel little to no pain, and perhaps just the slightest sensation of pressure.
LASIK procedures in today’s age now allow for the correction of most cases of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Step 1: Your FREE Consultation
The first step towards visual freedom is to schedule a consultation with our laser counselor. During this consultation, you'll learn more about the various options of laser vision correction. You'll also learn about all the benefits LASIK can bring, and get any risks associated with the procedure cleared up. We’ll also discuss how affordable LASIK can be and the payment plan options you may consider.
Step 2:Your Eye Examination
As part of your surgical work-up, you'll receive a comprehensive dilated eye examination by one of our staff and other special testing to confirm if you are indeed a candidate for LASIK.
Step 3:Discussing Your Unique Eyes
Our staff will discuss the specifics of your recommended vision correction procedure, helping you understand all the details and answering any questions you may have.
Step 4: Special Testing
To help ensure the success of your procedure, special diagnostic testing such as our computerized corneal topography will be performed. This topographical mapping of the front surface of your eye is painless and gives us the necessary measurements and information to achieve the best possible results for you and your unique vision.
Step 5: Our LASIK Procedure
Using cool waves of light from an Excimer Laser, LASIK takes only a few minutes to treat Nearsightedness, Farsightedness, and Astigmatism with microscopic precision. You should experience little, if any, discomfort.
Step 6:Open Your Eyes to Clearer Vision
After the procedure, you’ll be asked to take it easy that evening, and avoid any activities that could cause eye strain. When you awake the next morning, you should be able to roll over in your bed and see the alarm clock numbers jumping out at you for the very first time, without having to reach for your glasses! Most people can see well enough the next day to drive themselves to their post-operative appointment at our clinic. The best news is that as your eyes continue to heal, your vision will continue to improve.
What can I expect after the procedure?
Following LASIK surgery, patients can expect a short recovery period. During the 24 to 48 hours after the treatment, most patients will experience some mild discomfort. In rare instances LASIK complications can occur, but the vast majority of vision correction patients are able to return to work and other daily activities the day after the procedure.
After LASIK surgery, you should lie down, relax, and close your eyes. Watching television, reading, or operating a computer should be avoided for the first 24 hours. Do not rub your eyes. You will be required to wear plastic shields to bed for the first few nights to avoid any accidental eye contact while you sleep.
You should also wear sunglasses after surgery as your eyes will be more sensitive to light rays. Do not shower for the first 24 hours and be careful not to get any water near your eyes for the first week. Also, don’t wear any eye makeup and try to avoid any dusty environments after surgery.
Several follow up exams are required to ensure that your eye heal properly. Your vision may fluctuate over the next few weeks, and will most likely stabilize within three months. Possible side effects during that time period may include halos around lights, "ghost" images, visual fluctuations during healing, or minor discomfort during healing. All of these are considered normal, and are only temporary.
What are the benefits of laser surgery?
The benefits of living a life free of glasses and contacts are too numerous to list, but here’s a quick snapshot:
Clear, natural vision that is most often times better than with glasses or contacts.
Better vision for recreational activities especially water, snow and contact sports.
A glasses-free natural appearance.
Don’t have to worry about your vision in emergency situations.
Can have corrective lens requirement removed from drivers' license.
Better peripheral vision than with glasses.
LASIK is up to 5 times safer for your eye health than wearing contacts.
Save time by eliminating contact wear and maintenance from daily life.
Visual Freedom!
Singla Eye Institute (Port Arthur)
3000 39th Street, Suite 102, Port Arthur, TX 77642
Ph. 409-985-2745
Mon-Fri 8:30am - 5:00pm
Singla Eye Institute (Beaumont)
3385 Laurel Ave, Suite 101,
Beaumont, TX 77707
Ph. 409-832-3120
Mon-Fri 8:30am - 5:00pm