What can you expect?

Although the LASIK treatment itself only takes about ten minutes for each eye…and both eyes will be treated…expect to be in our office for a couple of hours. Some preoperative measurements may be needed and medications will be given to help you feel relaxed during the procedure.

A family member or friend is welcome to stay in the examination room where the preoperative process takes place. Once you are moved to the laser room for treatment, your friend or family member can be seated in our waiting area where they can actually watch your procedure as it takes place on our large screen television.

Because we use eye drop anesthesia you will feel slight to no pain, only a little pressure during your procedure.

The first of the two lasers, the Intralase, makes a very thin flap in the outer layer of the cornea which when raised exposes the internal corneal tissue to be treated.

Next, the VISX Star IV Laser sculpts the internal corneal tissue to your unique correct refractive power by altering the curvature of the exposed corneal tissue. The “changed” cornea allows light rays to focus more directly on the retina, thereby reducing vision challenges. The laser will also treat those other aberrations on the surface of your eye that may cause glare or other abnormalities in your vision.

The corneal flap is laid back in its original position. Due to the cornea’s extraordinary natural bonding qualities, the flap seals without sutures within two to five minutes and most people return to work within one day.

After the procedure is complete, you will be moved to another exam room where you will wait approximately twenty minutes (your friend or family member can join you again). After this time interval, Dr. Allison will examine your eyes to be sure your “flaps” are sealed down and in place. You will leave the office wearing goggles for the evening to protect your eyes.

Once you arrive at home, we advised you rest quietly for several hours (take a nap!). Most patients have improved vision immediately and in the next few days and weeks the vision usually stabilizes in the 20/40 to 20/20 range.