Vision Correction Procedures Frequently Asked Questions

Who can benefit from LASIK?
LASIK is beneficial for those who are myopic, hyperopic, with or without astigmatism. A good candidate should not only meet the medical criteria, but also
have realistic expectations about visual outcomes following surgery.

What are the contraindications for LASIK?
There are numerous aspects that doctors need to examine before concluding candidacy. Some contraindications are pregnancy, nursing, autoimmune diseases, and certain eye diseases. Other medical conditions may rule out candidacy, as well as certain medications could disqualify a patient.

Will it hurt?
During Surgery
Many patients experience only a sensation of pressure on the eye during surgery, as well as a tight feeling on the eyelids from the lid speculum that opens the eye during the surgery.
After Surgery
In most cases it will feel like an eyelash has fallen into your eye, or that you are wearing a dry contact lens. Some patients may experience a gritty or stinging sensation as the anesthetic (numbing) drops wear off. It is also not uncommon for the eyes to water quite a bit for a few hours post-operatively. Many of these minor irritations may be alleviated with Tylenol or Advil.

Will LASIK eliminate my need for glasses forever?
LASIK surgery, at this time, is able to correct distance and mid-range vision, in those who have myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The majority of individuals do not need glasses or contacts following surgery, but some may still require use of a mild prescription for certain activities. The probability of use of glasses after surgery depends upon each persons healing response to the procedure. Some individuals may require the use of corrective lenses for a period of time until a retreatment procedure is advisable.

If you currently wear reading glasses or bifocals, you will need to wear reading glasses after surgery. This condition is called presbyopia and is a normal aging process of the eye that happens to everyone. If you are not currently wearing reading glasses or bifocals you will typically notice changes in your near vision starting around age 40 that will require use of reading glasses. Some individuals have an option of Monovision, which is where one eye is corrected to see in the distance and the other eye is corrected to see close. Not everyone is a candidate for this option depending on the vision prescription, occupation and activities. This would be discussed with you at the time of your exam.

What is the down time after surgery?
The surgeons request that immediately following surgery patients go home and take a nap for a few hours. The nap allows the corneal flap to seal more into position, as well as provides patients relief from the initial irritation following surgery. Over the next week there are some minor restrictions in activities, patients are asked to not get any water in your eyes for one week after surgery. As well as refrain from swimming for at least two weeks. It is best to keep exercise and heavy lifting to a minimum for one week following surgery. Those individuals who work in dirty/dusty environments may be requested to stay away from those areas for a few days following the procedure.

How long will LASIK last?
The effects of LASIK are permanent, and do not wear off over time. However a person's eyes may still change with age. Therefore it is important to have a careful evaluation of the vision and health of the eyes to ensure that the procedure is being performed after the major eye changes have occurred. LASIK is not recommended in those who are younger than 18 as the vision typically changes frequently in children.

At what point will my eyes be fully healed?
Usually after one month, most patients' corneas have healed and vision has stabilized allowing the patient to resume all activities. The time can vary between patients and will be monitored at follow up appointments.

How safe is the LASIK procedure?
Most analysis has shown that there is minimal risk of complication with the LASIK procedure. As with any procedure, there is a level of risk, which is why the pre-operative exam is so important.

Will my eyes be dry after the procedure?
Most patients do experience dry eyes after the procedure for a short period of time. It is completely normal and will improve as your eyes heal. A test will be run to determine if severe dry eyes is, or will be a problem for you after the procedure and treatment will be specified accordingly. All patients should expect to use artificial tears after the procedure.

How long do I need to be out of my contact lenses?
Patients wearing soft or disposable lenses need to have contacts removed two weeks prior to surgery. Those wearing extended wear, toric, gas permeable or hard lenses, the time frame is anywhere from three weeks to three months. At the initial exam we would be able to determine the length of corneal rehabilitation needed.

Why should I choose Eye Physicians Of Virginia Center?
Eye Physicians Of Virginia Center strives to provide the highest level of patient care possible. We have hand selected each surgeon to be a part of our team. The physicians' outstanding credentials, professionalism and personal touch exude confidence in our patients.