Laser Vision Institute Procedures

At the Laser Vision Institute, our goal is to help you achieve incredible vision. We care about our patients and work hard to provide the best PRK and LASIK in Lubbock and West Texas. If you suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness, or even astigmatism, we’re here to help! Our procedures include PRK and LASIK.

Call 806.743.7777 to schedule a free personal consultation.

A woman being prepped by an ophthalmologist in a medical office

What’s the Difference between LASIK and PRK?

PRK and LASIK are highly safe procedures and provide incredible results. 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 and change the shape of the cornea. Each surgery helps to correct vision problems caused by nearsightedness, astigmatism and farsightedness

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. The eye requires time to heal and recover before your corrected vision is completely restored.

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.

Total laser treatment time for most patients is less than 30 seconds per eye. If you are having both eyes done on the same day, it will take a few minutes to program the computer and prepare for laser treatment of your other eye. The total time in the laser room is usually less than 20 minutes.

lasik equipment

Our Process

Step 1 - Get Eyes Measured

As you begin your journey toward incredible vision, set up a free consultation at Laser Vision Institute. Remove your contacts 10 days prior to your exam appointment to help your eyes unmold. As you being your journey toward enhanced vision, schedule a free consultation at the Laser Vision Institute. We will measure your corneal shape and thickness, pupil size, and tear function. Altogether, we analyze about 50 parts of your eye before surgery to ensure you are a good candidate.

Step 2 - Surgery Preparation

At your pre-operative exam, we will dilate your eyes in order to take final measurements. Then, you will begin using non-preserved artificial tears four times per day to help shape your eyes for surgery. To minimize the risk of infection and speed healing, start antibiotic eye drops the day before surgery and scrub your eyelids morning and night to keep the lashes clean of makeup, skin cells, debris and bacteria.

Step 3 - Procedure

Have a family member or friend drive you to your surgery and your follow-up visit the next morning. You’ll be in our office about an hour the day of your procedure. One of our friendly staff members will review all the steps of your procedure and escort you to the room and guide you through the process.

Step 4 - Immediate Results and Recovery

Your surgeon will guide you through the details of post-op care. Within a few hours, you can start enjoying your new vision without your glasses or contacts! Follow-up evaluation visits are generally scheduled within a few days after the procedure, and then as needed.

What to Expect After Your Laser Surgery

24 Hours

After LASIK or PRK, your surgeon will complete a final check and give you protective glasses to wear as you are driven home. Be sure not to poke, touch, or rub your eyes. If there is any irritation, use the artificial tears given by your doctor & follow post-op instructions. Rest the remainder of the day. Taking a nap will help your eyes heal. 

1-3 Days

After a few days, you will be able to resume most normal activities. Avoid contact sports, swimming or hot tubs and yard work. We will schedule a brief follow-up appointment a few days after your procedure. Keep following post-op instructions, including keeping soap and water out of your eyes when showering. Be sure to keep your eyes lubricated with artificial tears when you are viewing monitors and screens.

1 Week

One week after your surgery, you may stop using the protective eyewear while sleeping. Additional post-op visits will be scheduled as recommended by your surgeon.