Since December 1996, Larson Eye Center has been providing Laser Vision Correction (LASIK) to our patients with great results. Dr. Bruce Larson, Board Certified Ophthalmologist and Surgeon, has performed over 2,000 procedures. "I believe highly in this technology and the LASIK procedure," says Dr. Larson. He is so confident in the LASIK procedure, in fact, that he underwent the surgery himself in June 1999.

LASIK, or Laser in-Situ Keratomileusis, is currently the most popular laser technique used today for vision correction and can correct for the widest range of prescriptions. LASIK combines a minor surgical procedure to create a flap in the cornea tissue and then uses the excimer (or "cool beam") laser to reshape the cornea. The procedure is performed under local eye drop anesthesia and is done entirely on an outpatient basis.

Traditional LASIK

1. Microkeratome is used to create corneal flap
2. Laser is administered under precise computer control.
3. Corneal flap is put back into place.

Blade-Less LASIK

Blade-less LASIK with IntraLase is one of the newest forms of the LASIK procedure. LASIK is offered with complete use of lasers to make the corneal flap and correct your vision. Studies have shown significant improvement in patient's vision when they've had the Blade-less procedure. If you would like to learn more about the IntraLase procedure please contact one of our offices.

LASIK offers the following benefits:

• More rapid visual recovery - often functional vision returns within hours of surgery
• Minimal or no post-operative pain
• Less post-operative care and follow-up
• Quicker return to work - most of our patients return to work the next day
• Ability to correct larger range of visual problems

Choosing Your LASIK Surgeon

The Importance of LASIK communication

Selecting a surgeon for your LASIK eye surgery is a very important decision that will ultimately affect your vision for the remainder of your life. It is important to discuss your personal situation with a surgeon and ask your questions directly to the doctor if possible. Choosing a surgeon that has high quality and safety standards can often times reduce unnecessary surgical risk. Experience with LASIK eye surgery is also a very important factor when selecting your surgeon. Not all eye doctors share the same level of training or experience in refractive surgery. A surgeon with a vast amount of experience should also be able to show you some basic information regarding outcomes.

Some practices and surgeons aim to keep up with the latest technology in order to provide the best possible equipment for the best visual outcomes. In recent years we have seen the advent of wavefront optimized LASIK and special diagnostic equipment to measure aspects of corneal thickness. Each piece of equipment contributes significantly to the LASIK process and can make the procedure better and safer. If a practice does not discuss your cornea or corneal thickness this could be an indicator that you need to see another practice. Clear patient communication should be sought after.

Questions to Ask Your LASIK provider

1. How many surgical LASIK cases has this doctor performed? (Not the Center but Doctor)
2. What technology do you offer?
3. What is your complication rate?
4. What is your enhancement rate?
5. What are the chances of success in my unique case?
6. What can I expect after the surgery?