LASIK and Eye Surgery Blog - Clearview Eye and Laser Medical Center

Monday, June 30, 2008

What is LTK?

LTK is also known as laser thermokeratoplasty. It is a new procedure used to treat farsightedness and astigmatism. This procedure is successful for short-term, however is not permanent, according to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman.

For more information on how laser vision correction surgery can correct farsightedness and astigmatism or for a complimentary consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:42 PM

How soon can I fly after LASIK?

Patients can usually fly the next day after the LASIK procedure, as long it is a normal, commercial flight. Many patients fly long distances have the LASIK procedure done and fly back without any complications.

Dryness is a side effect which can be exacerbated by flying; so nonpreserved tears should be used regularly if flying early after LASIK.

Wondering if LASIK is right for you?. Contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center for a complimentary LASIK consultation and find out.

posted by Clearview Staff at 8:32 PM

Can patients with macular degeneration have LASIK

Macular degeneration is a disease which can cause a reduction in one’s vision. It is not wise to undergo an elective surgery if the disease is impairing one’s sight.

posted by Clearview Staff at 7:38 PM

Thursday, June 26, 2008

What are some common fears patients have before LASIK?

Some common fears patients have before LASIK include losing their vision or experiencing pain. With any type of surgery, there are always risks and benefits, however, with the proper tests and the right doctor, these risks are minimized.

For more information on LASIK or a complimentary evaluation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:47 PM

How long do I have to keep my hard lenses out before LASIK?

Due to the fact that hard contact lenses reshape the cornea, it is recommended that patients stay out of their contact lenses for four to six weeks prior to LASIK surgery. During this time, these patients should be coming in for regular check-ups because their prescription can rapidly change causing one trouble with blurred vision, according to Sandy T. Feldman, MD.

For more information on LASIK or a complimentary evaluation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 12:44 PM

How long do I have to keep my soft contact lenses out before LASIK surgery?

Soft contacts usually reshape the surface of the cornea. Therefore, these lenses should be removed a minimum of three to four days before the surgery. Additional testing should be performed before the surgery to ascertain that enough time has passed. Those individuals wearing lenses with astigmatism correction or higher prescriptions should remove their lenses for longer periods of time.

For a complimentary LASIK evaluation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:42 AM

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Why do I have to stop wearing contacts before my LASIK procedure?

Contacts should be discontinued before the LASIK procedure because they reshape the surface of the cornea. In order to have the most accurate results, it is recommended that the tests and treatment be performed on the natural shape of the cornea. Having the natural shape of the cornea will result in the best vision possible with the best results.

For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 10:31 PM

When can I start wearing makeup after LASIK surgery?

Usually, patients can wear face makeup the day after their refractive surgery procedure. As far as make-up near or around the eyes, it is recommended that no make-up be used in that area for at least a week after surgery.

When one does resume using cosmetics, make sure clean your brushes and new mascara are used, and be sure to remove eye make up gently, according to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:26 PM

How many check ups will I need after LASIK?

Usually after the procedure, there are about six scheduled check-ups. However, if there are any problems or concerns, more check-ups may be needed, according to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman. For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 8:21 PM

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

What happens after laser vision correction treatment

After laser vision correction treatment, the patient is given instructions on the necessary medication needed after the procedure. Then, they are recommended to sleep as long as possible to allow their eyes to rest and allow for a quicker recovery time.

For a few hours, the patient's eyes may feel watery and have a foreign body sensation; which is why it is best to sleep during this time. When the patient awakens, the vision starts to improve.

For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 1:11 PM

What happens on the day of treatment?

On the day of the treatment, some patients may undergo additional testing. You will be asked to sign an informed consent which we will go over with you prior to your procedure. Once all necessary measurements are taken, you will be prepared for surgery with an anti-anxiety medication and a thorough cleaning around the eyes. We will instill antibiotic and numbing eye drops.

It is important for you to not wear contact lenses prior to the procedure and that measurements are taken after the contact lenses are out. We usually do additional measurements a day or so before the procedure day, but sometimes, again before your procedure. You should avoid alcohol and medications. We advise you to wear comfortable, warm clothing as the laser suite can be quite cold. Also, do not wear make up.

You will then be taken inside the surgical suite where the procedure is performed by Dr. Sandy T. Feldman along with technical assistants, so that we may achieve the best quality of vision. Where possible, information from the wavefront, both the prescription and small imperfections of your eye, is digitally transferred to the laser to customize the procedure for your eyes.

To see if you are a good candidate for laser vision correction surgery, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 12:05 PM

What happens during a consult

A consultation at ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center is a complimentary examination to determine your candidacy for laser vision correction. During the consultation, you will undergo an in-depth medical history and eye examination along with education by our patient counselors. You will also have an opportunity to tour our state-of-the-art laser facility and meet with Dr. Sandy T. Feldman, our refractive surgeon.

We will determine the best procedure for you and answer any questions that you may have about laser vision correction. You will also be educated on the results expected, the best procedure for you and the possible side effects, so that you may make an informed decision about laser vision correction.

posted by Clearview Staff at 11:02 AM

Friday, June 20, 2008

Explain what the Advanced Surface Ablation [ASA] procedure is?

Advanced surface ablation (ASA) or modern photorefractive keratectomy is a laser vision correction procedure that sculpts a contact lens directly onto the surface of the eye instead of creating a flap like in the LASIK procedure. The ASA procedure can be used for patients whose corneas are too thin for LASIK. For a complimentary LASIK or ASA consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 11:03 AM

How long does LASIK take?

LASIK is a fast procedure and is usually completed in about 10-15 minutes per eye. However, the actual laser treatment of the eye is very quick, usually it is done in a matter of seconds.
For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:00 AM

Thursday, June 19, 2008

When is it ok to rub your eyes after LASIK?

You should avoid rubbing your eyes after LASIK for one month, according to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman. It is unlikely that you will rub your eyes after surgery since the anti-inflammatory drops often reduce the sensation of itch. To see if you are a candidate for LASIK, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 12:51 PM

What should patients do and not do after LASIK?

What should patients do and not do after LASIK?

Do’s:
• After surgery, go home and rest
• Showers and baths are fine after LASIK surgery, but be careful and avoid getting water in your eyes

Don’ts:
• Do not rub your eyes
• For seven days after surgery avoid swimming, hot tubs and gardening. Avoid swimming in the ocean for two weeks.
• Make-up should not be used for about three days after surgery. Once you begin to wear make-up again be sure to buy new mascara and eyeliner.
• Wait before driving after surgery until after your first day post operative appointment with Dr. Feldman

For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:49 AM

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Why was EpiLASIK developed?

The Epi-LASIK procedure was developed to reduce the incidence of corneal haze that was associated with other surface ablation procedures, like PRK and LASEK. Unfortunately, this has not been proven.

posted by Clearview Staff at 1:35 PM

Explain the EpiLASIK procedure?

EpiLASIK is similar to PRK. During the procedure, the surface of the cornea is ablated after the epithelium, or flap, is lifted in a single sheet. The flap is reposition after the treatment along with a bandage contact lens to allow the cornea to heal.

To see if laser vision correction surgery is right for you, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 8:29 AM

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Explain the Intralase procedure?

The Intralase method for PRK or LASIK is a 100 percent blade-free technique used in the first step of the LASIK or PRK procedure, when the corneal flap is created. The Intralase laser creates tiny bubbles in the cornea which can then be separated to form a flap. This prepares the eyes for the next step in the treatment, when the excimer laser is used to correct the patient’s vision. When used with CustomVue TM, the procedure is known as iLASIK and tailors the treatment for the unique characteristics of one’s eye.

For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 11:20 AM

Can LASIK be done after cataract surgery?

While laser vision correction surgery can be done on cataract patients, patients considering corneal refractive surgery may want to rely on the cataract surgery to correct their vision.

Should astigmatism or the prescription not be adequately treated when the cataract is removed, LASIK surgery can be performed.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:16 AM

Monday, June 16, 2008

What can be done about extremely dry eyes after LASIK?

After laser vision correction, your eyes can be dry. Dry eyes can be treated with lubricating eye drops or sometimes with inserts or “plugs”. Dry eyes are often a temporary condition and it usually clears up within a few months. The key is to lubricate the eyes often, usually several times a day.

To see if LASIK is right for you, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center for a complimentary consultation.

posted by Clearview Staff at 11:29 AM

Do drops need to be used for a long time after surgery?

After LASIK or ASA [Advanced Surface Ablation] surgery patients are given a course of antibiotic and anti-inflammatory solutions are used after both LASIK and ASA. The drops are will be needed for a number of days following LASIK and for a number of weeks following ASA to help prevent infection, reduce any inflammation and scarring.

For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:06 AM

What can be done to treat dry eyes?

When a patient has dry eyes there is a chronic lack of lubrication or moisture in the eye. In addition, this condition can cause irritation to eyes because of a constant foreign body sensation. It can also lead to the more serious condition of ocular inflammation of the tissues of the eye. Common eye dryness can be treated with non-preserved tear drops and/or lubricating ointment at bedtime. For a more serious condition, Dr. Sandy T. Feldman might use Restasis, which acts to increase tears. If drops do not help to treat the dry eye condition, small devices known as punctual plugs might need to be inserted into one’s tear ducts to retain moisture in the eye.

posted by Clearview Staff at 8:02 AM

Friday, June 6, 2008

Can I have LASIK after cataract surgery?

LASIK is a cornea based surgery, while cataracts surgeries involve the removal and replacement of the natural crystalline lens. Depending on the implant, if the vision is not optimal, LASIK can be performed to fine tune the prescription.

For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 6:28 PM

Can diabetics have LASIK

As long as the diabetes is controlled, diabetics can have LASIK, according to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman. Diabetes can affect the eyes so each person with diabetes needs to be considered individually.

To schedule a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 6:04 PM

Why would I have PRK instead of LASIK?

There are several things to look at when considering if someone is a good candidate for LASIK or PRK. Patients with asymmetry in their corneas, thin corneas, or those who are very physically active and involved in sports which might involve getting hit in the eye would be better candidates for PRK. The reason for that is to allow for more stability in the structure of the eye.

Both procedures are very common and each procedure has their pros and cons. The most important thing is to achieve the best quality of vision.

For a complimentary LASIK or PRK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 5:31 PM

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Can you be too old to have age have LASIK?

According to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman, nobody is too old for LASIK. However, it is important to have eyes which are free of diseases such as cataracts.

For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:36 PM

How old do you have to be to have LASIK

The minimum age for LASIK is 18. However, the most important thing to look at is the stability of the prescription. As people mature, so do their eyes. As long as the patient’s prescription is stable for the last two years, they would be possible candidates for LASIK, according to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman.

For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:11 PM

When can I drive after PRK?

The recovery process for PRK is generally longer than LASIK. How fast one heals is dependent on their own body, age and other conditions unique to them, according to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman. Many patients are able to drive after four days of recovery from the day of the procedure.

For a complimentary laser vision correction evaluation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 3:44 PM

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

When can I drive after LASIK?

The next morning after LASIK, there is often a dramatic improvement in vision. Many patients are able to drive the next day after their have come in for their first day examination.

For a complimentary LASIK evaluation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 9:00 PM

What is the recovery process like for PRK?

A common question patients ask is if they’ll need to take time off after PRK. Most patients are able to return to work 3-4 days. Usually the weekend and one day off of work is plenty of time for recovery, according to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman.

To see if you are a candidate for PRK or ASA, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 8:43 PM

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Recovering From LASIK

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in situ Keratomileusis) only takes about fifteen minutes to perform and is literally a life-changing surgery. This refractive laser eye surgery is performed by ophthalmologists to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. When a highly skilled LASIK surgeon performs this procedure, recovery is extremely benign.

Following LASIK, you can expect a very short recovery period in which you may be required to wear a protective eye shield for the first night or two following. We may prescribe you an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory drug, or moistening eye drops for a few days. If you experience sensitivity to bright lights, you can wear dark eyeglasses.

Although complications from LASIK may occur (though rarely), most vision correction patients return to work and other normal activities the very next day. There is usually no discomfort post-operatively, and follow-up exams will help to ensure your eyes heal properly. Many patients go to sleep right after the surgery, and this reduces post-operative discomfort greatly. When you awake, you will notice improved vision.

To learn more about LASIK and recovery from the procedure, please contact Clearview Eye and Laser Medical Center today to make your first appointment.

posted by Lynn at 8:06 AM

Monday, June 2, 2008

After my LASIK surgery, how soon will I be able to see well, will it take a few days?

After their LASIK surgery, most patients are able to see a dramatic difference in their vision the next morning. And, most patients are able to drive the next day, according to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman.

For a complimentary LASIK evaluation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 10:33 PM

What if I move or blink during LASIK?

During the LASIK procedure, an eyelid holder is placed in the eyes to prevent the eyes from blinking. Our lasers are equipped with the ActiveTrak so that the laser detects and compensates for small eye movements by guiding the laser beam to keep it centered precisely over the treatment area.

For a complimentary LASIK consultation, contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center.

posted by Clearview Staff at 10:15 PM

What is LASEK?

Laser Assisted Sub-Epithelials Keratectomy (LASEK) is an alternative to LASIK when the cornea’s shape or thickness makes the risk of LASIK too great. Since no flap is created in LASEK, there is less risk, but there is a slightly longer healing period involved with LASEK. LASEK treats a wide range of vision problems. If you have thin corneas, LASEK may be the solution for you.

The Procedure

LASEK’s procedure is similar to LASIK in that it only takes a few minutes. However, as stated above, recovery is a bit longer. For the first day or so after LASEK, you must wear a contact lens bandage to protect the cornea. LASEK is usually performed on only one eye at a time, sometimes with days or weeks in between eyes. LASEK patients will be required use topical eye medications for a couple of months after the procedure to insure optimal healing.

During the first step of LASEK, our surgeon loosens the epithelium by using an alcohol solution that allows the tissue to be peeled back. Next, the excimer laser is used to apply a cool beam of light, which reshapes the cornea to correct your vision. Then, after the cornea is reshaped, the epithelium is returned back to its original position. A contact lens is put in place to aid in healing and to reduce the pain.

To learn more about LASIK or LASEK, please contact Clearview Eye and Laser Medical Center today to schedule your initial appointment.

posted by Lynn at 7:19 AM

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San Diego LASIK Center

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S. :: ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
6255 Lusk Blvd., Suite 100 :: San Diego, California 92121

“She’s the Surgeon to See”