Questions About LASIK

Dallas, Texas

What is LASIK?

LASIK is an acronym for Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis, a surgical procedure that gently reshapes the surface of the eye (the cornea) to improve vision, using a cool beam of light. The laser works to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism by removing microscopic pieces of corneal tissue. When the corneal surface is reshaped, the eye is better able to focus images on the retina and vision becomes sharper.

Is LASIK safe?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes LASIK as a proven, effective and safe procedure. While there are risks associated with any surgical procedure, laser vision correction is computer controlled, allowing the surgeon the flexibility of turning the laser on and off as needed. Other safeguards are also in place so that LASIK has a very low incidence of errors, less than 1%. Contrary to common myths, no known cases of blindness have occurred due to LASIK.

Does LASIK hurt?

Patients do not feel any pain during the LASIK procedure, because anesthetic drops are placed in the eye prior to beginning the surgery. Once your procedure is completed, you may be given a prescription for home use as necessary. Most LASIK patients report only mild discomfort for one or two days afterward, and most often, that discomfort is likened to a temporary feeling of itchiness.

Am I a good candidate for LASIK?

At Carter Eye Center in Dallas, we will perform an extensive visual examination to determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK. General guidelines for candidacy include:

• Healthy eyes – no eye diseases that might affect postoperative healing
• At least 18 years old
• A stable vision prescription for at least one year prior to surgery
• Pregnant or nursing mothers must wait until their hormones return to normal
• Degenerative or autoimmune disease affect healing and would preclude a patient from undergoing the LASIK procedure

What are the side effects of LASIK?

The most common side effect is dry eye. Dr. Carter will treat this before and after surgery to alleviate the symptoms of dry eye, which disappear over time. Some patients experience nighttime starbursts or halos around lights that disappears over time. Less than 1 percent of all patients experience a worsening of their vision, which usually can be treated again to resolve the issue. Often, retreatment can solve ongoing issues. Overall, LASIK is an extremely safe procedure with limited side effects, and the majority of patients agree the benefits of LASIK outweigh the potential risks.

How can High-Definition LASIK™ help me?

• Naturally clear vision with the potential for 20/20 or better
• Greater self-confidence and pride in appearance
• Reduction or elimination of the need for glasses or contacts
• Time and money savings over wearing glasses or contact lenses
• Better quality of vision than with glasses or contacts
• Reading, driving, or sports participation without glasses or contact lenses
• Better vision for careers relying on visual acuity (police, firefighters, pilots, etc.)
• Reduced post-operative discomfort compared with other refractive procedures
• Faster healing time compared with other procedures

High-Definition LASIK™ at Carter Eye Center in Dallas provides peace of mind, particularly when paired with Dr. Harvey Carter’s unparalleled experience and commitment to technology. Please contact our Dallas LASIK office today to schedule your consultation.