LASIK FAQ Hinsdale

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Laser Vision Correction and is it right for me?
Where is the procedure performed?
How long does the procedure take?
Will I be put to sleep?
Does it hurt?
Do contact lenses need to be discontinued prior to surgery?
What is an enhancement?
Will I need to wear glasses or contacts after the surgery?
How long will I be out of work?
Are there any restrictions after the procedure?
Does insurance cover Laser Vision Correction?
How long has Laser Vision Correction been around?

1. What is Laser Vision Correction and is it right for me?

Laser Vision Correction is a surgical procedure that uses the Excimer Laser to reshape the front surface of the eye to allow images to focus on the retina. The laser emits pulses of cool ultraviolet light to remove microns (small amounts) of tissue from the cornea. To determine whether Laser Vision Correction is right for you, you should undergo an evaluation with your eye care professional. Evaluations are free of charge at Larson Eye Center. There, we can confirm that your degree of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism is within the proper range, make sure that you are currently free of any eye disease, and discuss other details of both your case and the laser procedure. You should bring your glasses or contacts with you.

2. Where is the procedure performed?

Dr. Larson performs LASIK at the Hinsdale Surgical Center in Hinsdale, IL (located 1/2 block East of York Road on the North side of Ogden Avenue). Click here to find step-by-step instructions on how to get to the HSC.

3. How long does the procedure take?

The laser treatment itself takes approximately 60 seconds or less per eye depending on the amount of correction you need. Expect to be at the Hinsdale Surgical Center for about 1 hour for the entire procedure.

4. Will I be put to sleep?

No. You will receive several drops of topical anesthesia to numb the eye. In addition to the drops, you will also be offered a light sedative to help you relax.

5. Does it hurt?

The surgery itself is pain free! You may have a scratchy, sandy feeling, or it may feel like a dirty contact lens is in the eye for a day or two following surgery.

6. Do contact lenses need to be discontinued prior to surgery?

Yes. All types of contact lenses need to be discontinued prior to surgery to allow the cornea to return to its normal shape. Typically, patients who wear soft lenses need to be out of them for approximately 1 week. Gas permeable lens wearers need to be out approximately 1 month.

7. What is an enhancement?

An enhancement is a second surgery to fine tune any over or under corrections. Your chance of needing an enhancement is based individually on prescription.

8. Will I need to wear glasses or contacts after the surgery?

98% of the patients achieved visual acuity of 20/40 or better without glasses, which is good enough to pass a drivers license exam. 60-65% of the time vision will be 20/20.

9. How long will I be out of work?

This depends on your type of occupation and your personal healing and comfort level. Most patients return to work within one to three days.

10. Are there any restrictions after the procedure?

The eye must be protected from injury and infection. For example, swimming and contact sports are best avoided for a few weeks

11. Does insurance cover Laser Vision Correction?

Most insurance companies consider this procedure elective. However, we encourage you to verify coverage with your individual carrier.

12. How long has Laser Vision Correction been around?

Laser Vision Correction was approved for use in the United States in March 1996, but has been performed around the world since 1988. Over a million people have had Laser Vision Correction to correct their nearsightedness.