Front of Laser Vision Institute building

FAQs

Laser Vision Institute

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a good candidate?
In general, LASIK candidates must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 21 years of age or older
  • Have a stable prescription for glasses or contact lenses for one year prior to surgery
  • Do not have certain diseases of the cornea or retina
  • Have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure
  • Understand that complications, as in any surgical procedure, while rare, can result
  • Every person’s situation is unique. To properly assess whether you are a candidate, you must have a pre-procedure consultation.

If you have any questions, please call us directly: 806.743.7777.

How does LASIK work?
Using the precision of a Allegretto Wave Eye-Q laser, our surgeons can reshape the cornea of your eye in order to reduce or eliminate nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. This enables the vast majority of patients to see to drive, work, swim, play sports or just see the alarm clock in the morning!

With the only Allegretto Wave Eye-Q system in Lubbock and the latest in vision correction techniques, you may be a candidate here even if you weren't somewhere else.

 

Where can I find out more information?
Visit our Resources page.

 

Is the procedure painful?
No, with anesthetic eye drops your procedure should be quite comfortable. Once you return home after LASIK, it is normal for some patients to experience irritation, light sensitivity, or watery eyes similar to the feeling if you had left your contacts in too long. Most symptoms are controlled with Tylenol or Advil.

 

Are there risks with laser vision correction surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with LASIK. But in our surgeon’s hands, and with the added safety of Allegretto Wave Eye-Q system, LASIK can be a safe and successful procedure. The FDA studied laser vision correction for many years before approval, but each person does heal and respond differently. You should talk to our staff or your surgeon about the risks, benefits, and alternatives for your eyes.

 

What about dry eyes and night glare?
The two most common minor problems after LASIK are dry eyes and glare at night. Nearly everyone experiences both to some extent for the first few months after surgery; it is a part of the healing process. Some people can have more significant problems with night glare or prolonged dry eyes. To decrease your likelihood of having problems with night glare, your surgeon can check your pupil size in dim light to see if you are likely to experience problems. The newest generations of lasers like Allegretto Wave Eye-Q can perform larger area treatments to decrease night glare in those with large pupils. Your LVI surgeon will also measure your tear function before your surgery to determine if your eyes are dry. Two types of artificial teardrops have been found to decrease dry eye problems with LASIK: Refresh Plus and TheraTears. Both are available without prescription.

 

Can both eyes be done on the same day?
More than ninety-nine percent (99%) of our patients have both eyes done on the same day. In the event that this cannot be done safely, one eye will be treated at a time. If your second eye is treated on a different day than the first eye, one of the following three methods is used to gap the transition period:

  • You will wear a contact lens in the untreated eye during that period
  • You will wear your glasses with one lens covered or replaced with a non-prescription lens
  • You will do nothing to the untreated eye 

 

How long do I have to take off work?
As a result of our surgeons' skills and the advances of Allegretto Wave Eye-Q technology, you'll be able to see some results almost immediately. Your vision will be somewhat hazy at first and then it will begin to clear over the first several days. Most people take only 1 to 3 days off work—so for example, if you have your treatment done on a Friday, you could be back at work on Monday. Each person does respond differently partly depending on their age and prescription. Once you have recovered, start enjoying activities with your new vision!

 

How do I decide who should do my surgery?
This is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. By choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon you can ensure the best results and minimize the risk of problems. Simply put, the surgeons at the Laser Vision Institute are some of the most experienced in the region. Your surgeon will personally meet with you and plan your treatment while offering first class service with the best staff. Your eyes are precious; trust them to the best.

 

How do I get this done?
Call us at 806.743.7777 to schedule a free consultation. Once you decide to schedule your consult, you will need to be out of your contacts for 10 days before your consult. At your initial pre-operative visit, we will dilate your eyes and take several measurements. On the day of surgery, plan to have someone drive you. Your surgery only takes 20 minutes, but you will be at our laser center for about an hour. Your first follow up visit is the next morning, so wake up and look at the alarm clock and read it for the first time without glasses or contacts!

 

Does it last?
The results typically last a lifetime, but a few patients can regress or need a second treatment to obtain their best vision. There is no charge for enhancements (second treatments) within the first year, and if needed, most people have their enhancement about three to six months after their first surgery. If you have a higher than average prescription, more astigmatism, or are older than the typical patient, you are more likely to need an enhancement.

 

What is the difference between PRK and LASIK?
With LASIK, a thin sheet of cells on the front surface of the eye is lifted and then the treatment is done underneath that layer. These cells are then replaced and quickly heal without sutures. With PRK, the same laser treatment is done, but the cells are cleaned off and then have to reheal. So with PRK the recovery takes longer, but there is one fewer step than with LASIK. Which procedure is best for you depends on your prescription, pupil size, and corneal thickness. Both are still laser vision correction and offer similar accuracy.

  • PRK uses an Excimer laser to reshape the front of the cornea to reduce or eliminate nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. In PRK, the front surface is prepared by cleaning it free of cells before applying the laser treatment. A bandage contact is worn afterwards for the first few days to allow healing of the surface. Vision requires some time to heal and recover after PRK
  • LASIK is a modification of laser vision correction. In LASIK, a thin flap of cornea is lifted in a single sheet to permit laser treatment of the eye's exposed inner surface. Following the procedure, the corneal flap is repositioned. The corneal tissue has extraordinary natural bonding qualities that allow effective healing without the use of stitches. Many patients report immediate vision improvement with minimal recovery time.