LASIK & Refractive Surgery
LASIK
Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a safe, reliable and painless way to improve vision by changing the way light is bent, or refracted as it passes through the cornea, so that it properly focuses on the retina and allows objects to be seen clearly.
During the LASIK procedure, the surgeon creates a thin flap in the surface of the cornea with a device called a microkeratome blade or with a laser. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia so that pain is minimized. The corneal flap is then lifted and an excimer laser beam reshapes the cornea's curvature to improve vision. Finally, the flap is closed and covered with a protective contact lens. The entire procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes per eye.
Click on a topic below for more information about LASIK:
Not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK. When you come in for an evaluation, your eyes will be examined to determine whether LASIK or another refractive procedure is appropriate for you, and whether you are at risk for any complications.
The ideal LASIK candidate:
- Is over 18 years old;
- Has had stable vision for at least six months;
- Has a healthy cornea thick enough for a flap;
- Has refractive error(s) that fall within the treatable range;
- Does not have a disease or condition that could impair the procedure or healing process;
- Has been educated about the procedure including its risks and benefits;
- Understands that the goal of surgery is to improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses and contact lenses.
Since LASIK is not considered a medically necessary procedure, it is not covered by most health insurance plan. Please call your individual insurance provider for more information about this procedure.
We realize that LASIK eye surgery can involve significant out-of-pocket expenses not covered by insurance. In order to make it possible for more people to take advantage of this life-changing surgery, Carrollton Eye Clinic is pleased to offer several financing options. For more information about the financing options available, please speak with our financial counselor at the time of your free consultation.
At Carrollton Eye Clinic, we offer patients a free consultation to speak with one of our doctors and learn more about the LASIK procedure. During this initial appointment, your doctor will examine your eyes and discuss the benefits and risks of the LASIK procedure with you. If you decide to move forward with LASIK, your procedure will be scheduled at that time as well.
PRK
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) uses an excimer laser to remove a small amount of the top of the cornea. Instead of cutting a flap into the cornea with a blade, this method preserves the strength of the cornea and avoids the risk of perforation and other flap errors commonly associated with the blade method. During the PRK procedure, the surgeon also has greater control in the location and amount of tissue being removed, allowing patients to enjoy a much more accurate treatment.
Click on a topic below for more information about PRK:
This procedure is commonly performed on patients who are not good candidates for LASIK, including those with thin corneas, dry eyes, corneal dystrophies, corneal scars or recurrent corneal erosions. Many patients also choose this procedure because it does not involve a blade.
PRK patients should:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have healthy eyes with no retinal problems or other diseases
- Have mild to moderate myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism
- Be fully aware of the risks and benefits of the procedure
Since PRK is not considered a medically necessary procedure, it is not covered by most health insurance plan. Please call your individual insurance provider for more information about this procedure.
We realize that PRK eye surgery can involve significant out-of-pocket expenses not covered by insurance. In order to make it possible for more people to take advantage of this life-changing surgery, Carrollton Eye Clinic is pleased to offer several financing options. For more information about the financing options available, please speak with our financial counselor at the time of your free consultation.
At Carrollton Eye Clinic, we offer patients a free consultation to speak with one of our doctors and learn more about the PRK procedure. During this initial appointment, your doctor will examine your eyes and discuss the benefits and risks of the PRK procedure with you.If you decide to move forward with PRK, your procedure will be scheduled at that time as well.
