Food and Drug Administration on LAISK
 Click Here
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How do I know if I'm a candidate for Laser Vision Correction?
This is the most asked LASIK question. We recommend you come in for
a free evaluation with our refractive counselor. Our refractive counselor and staff will discuss your particular situation and help determine if you are a good candidate for laser vision correction. At Berkeley Eye Center, our goal is to provide you the vision procedure that is right for you! |
What is the difference between RK and LASIK Laser Vision Correction?
RK and LASIK Laser Vision Correction are procedures to correct refractive
error by reshaping the cornea to allow light rays to properly focus
on the retina. RK requires the use of a diamond blade to create radial
incisions on the surface of the cornea. With LASIK, Dr. Berkeley,
Dr. Caplan, and Dr. McQueen reshape the cornea using cool waves of
ultraviolet light that gently sculpt away nearsightedness, farsightedness
and astigmatism with microscopic precision using the VISX Star Excimer
Laser. |
What is the difference between PRK and LASIK?
PRK was the first Excimer laser procedure approved for use in the
United States. With PRK, the surface of the cornea (epithelium) is
scraped or ablated along with the corneal tissue underneath. This
sculpting removes microscopic layers of the cornea to correct refractive
error. In contrast, LASIK reshapes the inner layers of the cornea
to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. A special
instrument called the microkeratome gently folds back and lifts a
thin layer of the cornea . The laser then precisely reshapes the inner
surface of the cornea to enable light rays to focus more directly
on the retina so images are in better focus. LASIK is the most widely
used refractive procedure performed in the United States. Because
the corneal surface is left virtually intact, most patients report
a very high comfort level following the procedure and almost instantaneous
improvements in visual acuity. |
Are all patients who wear glasses and contacts candidates for
LASIK?
Most patients who wear glasses are good candidates for LASIK. Patients with virtually every degree of nearsightedness are enjoying
good outcomes with LASIK. We are able to treat mild to moderate degrees
of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. For more extreme nearsightedness and farsightedness,
lens implants may be an option. Our counselor will discuss this procedure with you during your free evaluation. |
How long have your doctors been performing refractive surgery?
Dr. Berkeley, Dr. Caplan, Dr. McQueen, Dr. Doe and Dr. Sun, are among the top refractive
surgeons in the country and are especially recognized as leaders in
the Houston and Corpus Christi areas. Refractive procedures
have been available at Berkeley Eye Center since 1980. Combined, our
surgeons have performed nearly 50,000 LASIK procedures for patients
from across the country.
As recognized leaders in refractive surgery, our surgeons are involved in laser technology research and continue
to be clinical investigators for advanced Laser Vision Correction
procedures. |
What kind of laser do you use?
Investing in the most advanced technology is part of Berkeley Eye
Center's commitment to provide our patients with the highest level
of patient care. That's why we were among the first to purchase the
new VISX STAR S4 ActiveTrak Excimer Laser System that incorporates
an active eye tracking system, in addition to many other benefits. Berkeley Eye Center also provides the "All LASER LASIK, iLASIK " experience, using the combination of the Excimer laser with the Blade-Free Intralase laser. Click
here to learn more about our laser. Use ALL Laser Procedure |
How long will the procedure actually take?
You will be at Berkeley Eye Center's Surgery Center approximately
two hours. The time in the surgery suite with the doctor is 15 to
20 minutes. The actual laser treatment time is approximately one minute
per eye. |
Is the laser painful?
The procedure itself is not painful since medication is administered
to make you feel comfortable. Post operatively, most patients experience
little or no discomfort. After the procedure, your eyes may feel scratchy,
gritty, or watery. These are temporary symptoms and are not a problem
for most patients. |
What kind of vision can I expect the day after surgery?
Many patients notice improved vision immediately after the procedure.
Most patients are functional without their corrective lenses at the
one day post operative exam. Patients continue to see a gradual increase
in their visual acuity during the first five to seven days after the
procedure. |
Do you have financing plans?
There are various financing plans available and we'll work with you
to develop a flexible payment plan to meet your requirements. Our
counselors will be happy to go over the details with you when you
come in for your free evaluation, or click
here to view our easy financing page. |
Does insurance cover refractive surgery?
Most insurance companies consider refractive surgery an elective surgery
and it is not usually a covered benefit. However, it is certainly
worth checking with your insurance company and we encourage you to
call them. |
Can both eyes be done at the same time?
Because of the advanced technology associated with Laser Vision Correction,
both eyes are most often treated at the same time. It is possible
that the second eye may be done anywhere from one day to a few days
to months after the first eye. This can be discussed with your eye
doctor. |
Do the results last?
Refractive surgery, or Laser Vision Correction, is considered to be
a permanent procedure. However, refractive surgery will not prevent
any age related conditions such as presbyopia or cataracts, and they
would be treated in their normal matter. |
How much work will I miss?
Most patients return to their normal activities the day after the
procedure. The refractive counselor can give you more details on what
you can expect when you come in for an evaluation. |
What are the risks of refractive surgery?
One of the most important LASIK questions. Again, the counselor can
discuss with you the benefits, risks, and side-effects of the surgery,
and what you may be able to expect from the procedure. For additional information about risks associated with refractive surgery, click on the FDA link at the top of this page. |
