What Is Lasik Plus?

You have heard about Lasik surgery for several years and you know many people that have had this life changing surgery. But, what is Lasik Plus? You have never heard about this-is it better or just different? Actually, it is a special place dedicated to helping people who want to have Lasik surgical procedures done.

Lasik Plus claims that their surgeons are high skilled and certified through many different medical boards such as the AMA, ABO and NCQA. They have a dedicated medical team that has been performing these surgeries for over 15 years and they have an excellent track record in the Lasik area.

Lasik Plus patients, are treated with sophisticated FDA-approved laser technology. Their centers are outfitted with new generation laser platforms, including Bausch & Lomb, VISX, and Alcon LADARVision. They understand the importance of having different lasers that can provide you with personalized results. This gives you with the ability to be an active participant in your vision correction plan.

They will offer you a choice of both the traditional and custom Lasik platforms. No one laser is suited for every patient or all conditions. There are differences in prescription, corneal thickness, and pupil size that may make the doctors choose with one laser over another with the goal of making your surgery successful.

They know that all Lasik providers are not the same and they tell you that their medical group is setting the standard for the entire industry. They have superior results because of the advance medical laser platforms, technical skills of their staff and their progressive training programs. All procedures are performed by lasers that are computer guided and have eye-tracking technology designed for your personalized treatment.

Lasik Plus facilities charge competitive rates and have promotional financing available to help everyone who wants to have this procedure performed.

If you think you want to have lasik plus performed on your eyes, you should check into the procedure. It is not for everyone and there are risks involved. You might want to read books, magazine articles, and newspapers to see what the latest developed are in this field. Medical procedures are constantly changing and being improved. Maybe you were not a good candidate 10 years ago when you first thought about having this done. But, with the advancements in technology, you may now be a good candidate.

You have made up your mind that you want to use Lasik Plus for your eye procedure. Work with them to ensure that you have all of the information you need and want, that all of your questions have been answered, and that you are ready to move ahead.

Schedule your procedure, following all of the instructions provided by the doctors and medical staff and relax. You are in good hands and soon you will be one of the many people who is able to talk about the wonderful freedom you now have since you do not wear glasses or contact lenses. Soon, friends and associations will be asking you for advice about Lasik Plus and what you thought about it.
By: Samantha Davis

Lasikplus Offers Superior Patient Care And Optimum Results

Lasik surgery has become one of the most popular elective surgeries in the United States. With more than a million procedures performed in the United States alone, Lasik has grown in popularity as technology has become more streamlined and the procedure has been perfected by skilled surgeons who perform it on a daily basis.

As the demand for Lasik grows, more and more centers devoted to Lasik open throughout the country. LasikPlus – one of the leaders in Lasik technology – has reputable centers that are located throughout the country and are committed to providing their patients with a superior level of care regardless of the center that they visit.

LasikPlus has been able to provide patients with such superior care and affordable prices because of the manner in which they conduct their business. A LasikPlus Vision Center –regardless of where it is located – performs a similar level of care. Each center is a template of the LasikPlus philosophy.

Currently, there are fifty centers throughout the country each dedicated to providing a standard of care that includes skilled and experienced surgeons who are top in the field, comprehensive patient care that extends to pre-operative visits and complete aftercare, advanced technology that represents the most state-of-the-art equipment on the market today, professional and respectful office and medical support staff that work together to ensure a positive experience for the patient, and affordable treatment through a variety of financing options.

Lasik surgery works to correct refractive difficulties experienced by patients and that is manifested in nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Such refractive disorders change the way that light is refracted through the lens to the retina. When the retina receives refracted light it then converts the signal it receives to a message that can be assimilated by the optic nerve in the brain; the optic nerve translates the message that it receives into a visual image. When light is not refracted properly, ultimately the message that is received by the retina is one of a blurry image.

Through the Lasik procedure, a thin incision is created in the top layer of the cornea in order to create a flap. When the flap is folded back, the surgeon is able to access the underlayer of the cornea, known as the stroma. Once the stroma is revealed the surgeon is able to resurface the area with the use of a laser; after which the flap is replaced on the eye and natural healing is allowed to begin.

While this may be a quick procedure it is still a surgical procedure that must be completed with enormous skill and precision. The surgeons of LasikPlus are committed to offering their patients the benefits of their ongoing training. Each procedure is approached independently and begins with a thorough pre-examination to determine the candidacy of the patient and the manner of procedure that will achieve the greatest success.

LasikPlus prides itself on treating its patients with the utmost respect; each patient is given personal service and the opportunity to ask questions of their surgeon prior to the procedure. In addition, the aftercare provided by the center is well-known in the industry and focuses on comprehensive follow-up and ultimate success.
By: Samantha Kay

Get A New Vision With Lasik Plus

Health diligence has been growing world wide with the developments and advancements in the technologies. With the introduction of lasik technology in 1988, a revolution took place in the surgical world of eyes. The horrifying moments that haunt a person to be a fun statement because of specs are no more in practice. No more hassle while playing, dancing and working. Yes, this has been made possible with the introduction of lasik laser eye surgery.

Lasik technology has been an all-encompassing action that got esteem among the people very soon. The consistency however is fully technological. There are millions and billions of lasik centers worldwide that include fame centre like lasik Dallas and lasik plus. Lasik plus is a chief in providing lasik treatments to the candidates. It is a company whose parent company, LCA Vision, has been a lead the way in the usage of laser rays in the surgical operations. Lasik plus has a track record of pioneering since 15years in the field of lasik laser eye surgeries. It provides with a sequence of vision centers throughout the world. The centers engulf extensive range of the area world wide. They spread from Arizona to Florida and from Washington to Indiana.

Well, lasik plus vision centers not only shine in lasik treatments but they present a civilized amalgamation of technology, doctors and values. All lasik plus surgeons are highly qualified and certified for their expertise from reputed medical institutes. The technology used is well complicated and complex. It practices FDA approved laser technique and facilitates a wide choice of Traditional Lasik and Custom Lasik both. It emphasize over a true viable pricing and a fair lasik promotional financing.

With lasik plus center one experiences a absolute obligation towards the care of vision of an individual during and after the whole process of lasik surgery. It offers a wide variety of lasik choices including Bausch n Lomb, VisX (Vis Six) and Ladar. Besides the laser choices, a lasik patient explores a whole new assortment of vision with pioneer results along with norm lasik platforms for each laser systems. Custom lasik is another lasik surgery as similar to the laser vision correction.

However, we can say that lasik eye surgery is a no trendy protestor marching against the specs and contact lenses that dilutes shameful looks and harassed eyes and, is promoted by experts and knowledgeable people at lasik plus centers.
By: A Singh

Can Everyone Have Lasik Surgery?

LASIK surgery is one of the most common vision correction procedures and it is an outpatient procedure, with the treatment itself taking only minutes. LASIK surgery is performed on approximately one million eyes every year in the world and it is no different than any other surgery, but its drawbacks may be a little different than others. Whatever some people might claim LASIK surgery have risks to it, but luckily they are few and far between.

Treatment with a Laser
Laser Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is intended to eliminate or reduce dependency on eyeglasses or contacts. Laser eye surgery has become more and more popular as the decades progress but still Laser Eye Surgery is not for everyone. The surgery procedures like PRK and LASIK are excellent alternatives to glasses and contact lenses for patients suffering from myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

A procedure like this can permanently reshape the cornea, which is the clear covering of the front of the eye with the help of a laser. Most patients do not report any problems after the laser surgery. There are a wide variety of different optical lasers used in this procedure but common for all of them is that the laser will remove some tissue from the cornea.

Who Should not Become
LASIK PatientsPatients who have reached or are close to reaching the age of 40 should consider that their vision may be affected by conditions that cannot be treated with LASIK surgery, such as presbyopia. Patients with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications should not choose LASIK surgery because of the implication that it might give. If you’re pregnant or nursing you will fall out of the ideal candidate classification and better wait a little.

Patients stricken with a condition called keratoconus are ineligible for the procedure and so are patients who have high levels of refractive error. Both parties are at a slightly higher risk for post-surgical astigmatism.

Glasses
Glasses and contacts can be a hassle and especially for active people on the go. Glasses are often lost or broken and contacts can make eyes irritated if not taken care of properly. A LASIK eye surgery operation can correct your eyes once and for all and free you of glasses for life.

LASIK surgery is an extraordinary procedure that has helped thousands of people see better and is an exciting opportunity for anyone who suffers from vision problems. LASIK surgery is the preferred vision correction surgery these days, despite its high cost. This type of surgery is however generally not the best option for older patients suffering from age-related conditions. Often these conditions can’t be treated with the LASIK procedure.
By: Mikael Rieck

The Cost of LASIK Eye Surgery

Whereas in times of old LASIK surgery cost a fortune, thanks to technological innovations today virtually anyone can take advantage of LASIK procedures!

There are steps you should take however, to ensure you get the most bang of your buck. While many have enjoyed a reduction in price for traditional LASIK procedures, newer technology has also resulted in price increases for some newer, more precise surgery. Overall traditional lasik procedures still cost roughly $1,000 to $3000 to complete.

Here are some considerations when reviewing LASIK costs:

1. Be clear if working with a company advertising a price that the price reflects your prescription and your individual procedure/needs. Some lasik discounts only apply to people who need minimal vision correction. If you fall outside the range defined by the deal, you may be unpleasantly surprised when you receive your bill.
2. Make sure your costs include the cost of follow up visits. You don't want to have to pay extra for visits occurring after your procedure. You should also consider asking the center what their policy is about you calling and coming in if you feel you are experiencing complications after surgery. Provisions for this should be included in their literature.
3. Check to see whether the price quoted you includes providing enhancements within the first year of surgery. Many enhancements are performed within this time frame. If possible, make sure you avoid additional fees associated with enhancements. Typically you can negotiate this as part of the actual fee you pay up front. Most competent surgeons make this very clear.

Payment Options
Many LASIK centers offer customers installment or payment plans so they can afford surgery. Try coordinating payments with the practice of your choice. Many offer alternatives including interest free payments or no money down payments. A competent care center can help you develop a reasonable payment plan.

Some factors influencing price will include your individual prescription plan or needs. Note that prices vary from clinic to clinic. There is no one set standard when it comes to pricing. The area or region you live in may also influence price. Typically most procedures cost roughly $600-1,000 per eye or more. While you may see advertisements promoting traditional LASIK procedures for roughly $500 for each eye, chances are this provision is for those with very mild prescriptions or the cost does not include important follow ups with the surgeon.

Many hidden costs exist among clinics offering the lowest prices, so be sure you investigate the price of surgery thoroughly before agreeing to work with a clinic. The better or newer the technology your surgeon uses, the higher surgery is likely to cost as well. Studies suggest most procedures average between $1,000 and $2000.

Technology And Pricing of LASIK Procedures
As mentioned, pricing can impact LASIK pricing. If you need the IntraLase procedure for example, you'll probably pay more than someone who needs traditional LASIK surgery. This price increase may cost as much as $500 per eye or as little as $250. One of the reasons for the increase in price is the cost surgeons must pay to buy newer equipment and learn to use it properly.

Custom LASIK using wavefront technology also costs more than traditional LASIK surgery. The price increase may be anywhere from $100 to $500 for each eye. Remember however, with this price increase comes greater precision and typically a reduced risk for complications following surgery.

Typical Prices Refractive Surgeries
Surgeries similar to LASIK cost roughly the same in many cases. The LASEK and PRK Procedures for example, generally average between $1000 and $2500 usually. CK procedures tend to cost between $1000 and $2000 total as well. Surgeries that may cost more than LASIK include Intacs or corneal inserts surgery.

Keep in mind fees will vary widely depending on the provider's skill, ability and the technology used. Your prescription and the severity of visual disturbance will also impact the cost of surgery. Don't fall prey to cheap fly-by-night clinics that offer bargain basement pricing, or you may compromise your health and your finances.

Risks of LASIK Surgery

Before getting involved with any surgery, you should educate yourself about the risks. This is true of LASIK.

LASIK Complications
There are several complications associated with LASIK procedures, some more prevalent than others. How do you know if you have to worry? Most studies conducted during the late 1990s suggest the risk of complications averaged 5%.

Since that time however, newer technology and better-qualified surgeons now report the risks associated with LASIK are more along the lines of 1%. This of course, only applies to patients that are meticulously screened prior to surgery. The good news is most of these complications resolve relatively quickly after surgery or are temporary.

Among the more commonly reported complications of surgery are flap complications. Flap complications occur in the hinged flap covering the front of the cornea. Doctors typically lift this flap to reshape the cornea then replace so the flap serves as a bandage.

One of the risks associated with cutting the flap using a microkeratome is abrasion. However, new technology including use of IntraLase technology has limited this risk significantly.

Some studies suggest cutting a flap and then using custom LASIK procedures may result in adverse outcomes, in part because surgeons don't use custom procedures to create the hinged eye flap. Therefore replacing it over the reshaped cornea may result in less than optimal outcomes.

Another risk associated with LASIK is Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis or DLK. Many call this disorder the "Sands of the Sahara". It results when dead cells lodge beneath the corneal flap. The cornea mistakenly assumes these cells are harmful and initiates an inflammatory response. Unfortunately this may result in scarring, and permanent vision loss may occur if prompt treatment is not initiated.

Irregular Astigmatism
One common side effect resulting from traditional procedures is irregular astigmatism. This can result when laser correction isn't conducted properly or when the corneal surface is not smooth. The symptoms can include seeing double. Many patients experiencing this complication will need additional surgery to correct the problem. Sometimes double vision is caused by minor swelling after surgery and resolves itself.

Other Common Complications
Here is a list of some other complications associated with LASIK:

1. Keratectasia - This condition results when a surgeon cuts the flap too deeply or removes too much tissue during surgery. This results in weakening and bulging of the cornea. Distorted vision may be permanent.
2. Dry eye - Dry eye is a much more commonly reported side effect of LASIK surgery. This can contribute to inflammation and infection, but is typically resolved using artificial tears.
   Infection - Some patients will develop infections following surgery. Fortunately the risk of infection is relatively low. Some doctors prescribe prophylatic antibiotics to help reduce the risk of infection.
3. Night Vision Problems - These are more common when surgeons use traditional LASIK procedures. They may also result when the surgeon treats too small of an area surrounding the pupil.
4. Over or under correction - This can result in blurry vision or minor visual disturbances. Many times patients will have to wear contact lenses or glasses to resolve the problem. Re-treatment with the laser is often possible.

It is important you carefully weigh your risk of complications and side effects when talking with your doctor. Your doctor can help you make an educated decision and decide whether the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks.

LASIK - Then and Now

Have you ever sat back and wondered, where did LASIK come from? Maybe not, but you should. Why not, LASIK has an interesting history! There is so much media covering the advantages of LASIK surgery today, people often forget about the history and development of this extraordinary procedure. Where did it all start? Would you believe in the mind of an ordinary surgeon? Ok it's a bit more complicated than that...

The history of Lasik is quite unique. A lonely fellow named Dr. Jose Barraquer of Spain developed the first microkeratome instrument, the foundation of traditional LASIK procedures, about the year 1960. This instrument (the microkeratome) is necessary for creating the corneal flap commonly associated with ALK and LASIK surgery. The microkeratome tool creates a flap in the cornea roughly 100 to 200 micrometers thick (compared with the typical thickness of the cornea, roughly 500 to 600 micrometers).

During Dr. Barraquer's time, surgeons used the microkeratome to cut thin flaps in the cornea and change its shape. They called this procedure keratomileusis. Much like LASIK today the goal of surgery included improved vision.

The leading researchers whose goals included investigating this new technique provided the foundation for the later development and mastery of the Lasik surgery strategy used today allowing more precise vision correction.

LASIK in Modern History
While the foundation for LASIK was lain in the 1960s, it wasn't until 1990 that an Italian and Greek doctor, Dr. Lucio Buratto and Dr. Ioannis Pallikaris respectively, started combining the keratomileusis technique with a procedure referred to as photo refractive keratectomy. This technique quickly gained a strong following as it allowed surgeons more precision and a lower risk of complications than with either one technique vs. the other.

The First LASIK Procedure
The first LASIK surgery wasn't performed until a year later, in 1991. Two American Drs., Stephen Brint and Slade performed the surgery. The same year other surgeons soon followed suit, all experiencing good results and minimal complications. Once word got out that a new laser surgery technique was available providing customers better vision with little risk of complication, well… the rest IS history.

LASIK Today
LASIK today is one of the most popular forms of corrective surgery. Not for everyone, LASIK provides many the opportunity to see better than they have their entire lives. Today's surgical procedure involves two main steps.

First, surgeons create the flap of corneal tissue commonly associated with laser surgery. A microkeratome instrument is still used today to help achieve this aim. The flap created leaves tiny raised bubbles within the lining of the cornea. The surgeon lifts the flap after creating it, revealing the mid section of the cornea for inspection and repair.

Surgeons next use the excimer laser to help reshape the corneal stroma. Tissues surrounding the stroma are avoided to reduce the risk of complications. The surgeon carefully removes tiny layers of tissue until the cornea is shaped more ideally.

The result? Shortly after surgery most patients report improved vision. Many times patients are able to see well for the first time in their lives without wearing corrective lenses. This is perhaps, the biggest advantage LASIK surgery has to offer, and one of the reasons LASIK is so popular among consumers.

Thanks to modern scientific innovations, more and more people are also now finding LASIK surgery more affordable than ever. There may even be instances where patients may receive partial reimbursement for surgery (check in with your health insurance provider; provisions are likely limited).

Regardless, many report they would happily stash away the finances necessary to invest in a lifetime of improved sight and quality of life. While there are some risks associated with LASIK surgery (common examples include dry eyes, over or under correction, ghosts or light sensitivity) most patients recover with few complications.

If you are interested in LASIK, check in with your doctor to decide whether you are a good candidate for surgery, or visit our archives and content library to learn more about LASIK and related procedures.

LASIK Surgery - What To Expect During Surgery

Operative Procedures
LASIK surgery isn't scary, when you know what to expect from your surgeon. Typically the LASIK procedure is performed while a patient is still awake. While this sounds scary, it really isn't.

Most surgeons provide patients with a pre-operative sedative to help them relax. An example is Valium. Your doctor will also provide anesthetic eye drops before conducting surgery. All of this helps improve your comfort and ease during the procedure.

Two Steps During LASIK Procedure
The actual procedure involves two main steps. First, the doctor will use a microkeratome or femtosecond laser microkeratome (if the patient is receiving IntraLASIK procedure) to create a layer or flap of corneal tissue.

When this thin layer is created, tiny bubbles form within the corneal region. The surgeon creating the corneal flap leaves a light hinge on one end so the flap can be easily folded back and forth. Once pulled back, the flap reveals the stroma to the doctor. This is the middle part of the cornea.

During this first phase, you may feel a bit uncomfortable as the surgeon pulls back the thin flap created to access the cornea. Other than this, you'll likely notice little pain or discomfort for the duration of surgery.

The next main step involves using an excimer laser to reshape and form the stroma of the cornea. The laser used vaporizes tissue in a safe way so the healthy tissue surrounding the stroma isn't disturbed unnecessarily, and the cornea can be formed and shaped correctly. If you were to peer in while your doctor conducted surgery you'd notice the layers removed by your surgeon are extremely thin… almost too thin to see!

Typically once the surgeon lifts the corneal flap you'll find your vision a bit blurry. This is natural as your cornea is being shaped and altered. During this time you'll probably be able to detect the light coming from the laser. This may be a bit disorienting, but you shouldn't experience any true pain or discomfort. The more prepared you are for these sensations, the more relaxed you'll be when they occur.

While performing surgery, most surgeons use computer systems to track their patient's progress and eye position. This helps ensure precise shaping and placement of the flap and cornea lens. Once the surgeon has actually reshaped the cornea, they'll replace the thin flap they created to help promote faster and safer healing. This flap serves as sort of a temporary band aide following surgery.

Benefits of LASIK Surgery
LASIK provides most patients the opportunity to see better than they have their entire lives without additional vision correction. All this for a short period of disorientation or discomfort. The recovery time is very brief and the pain associated with surgery most times minimal. Most patients will also experience few complications if screened properly before surgery… but since there are complications, it's best to discuss them.

Lasik Complications
Some complications may result from surgery. Some patients for example may experience higher-order aberrations following surgery. These are slight visual disturbances a doctor may not pick up on during a run-of-the-mill eye exam. Some controversy exists about the effects of LASIK on higher order aberrations; many doctors are not yet clear the exact impact lasik procedures have on these, whether improving them or making them worse.

Still others suggest another visual disturbance, spherical aberration, may result from the actual Lasik or PRK procedures. Still, there are new technologies providing surgeons more and more ability to correct just as much as necessary and adjust for the tendency to under or overcorrect, thereby virtually eliminating this problem.

Early complications may include development of DLK or diffuse lamellar keratitis, though this condition typically resolves on treatment. Without treatment however, it can cause permanent vision loss, so always go to follow up exams. Post infection problems occur in roughly 1% or less of patients following surgery. More commonly reported side effects include dry eye or glare produced from surgery. Fortunately doctors can use newer equipment in some cases to also address this problem, commonly associated with individuals with pupils larger than average.

Most patients despite the potential complications report they are more than satisfied with the results of their surgery. Talk with your eye doctor to find out whether you are a good candidate for LASIK today.

Lasik Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for answers to your most pressing questions about LASIK? Look no further… we have all the answers you are looking for.

What does LASIK stand for?
LASIK is short for "laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis." Now what does that mean? LASIK is a type of refractive surgery that an ophthalmologist performs to improve one's vision. Typically LASIK surgery involves reshaping of the cornea of the eye to improve vision and correct common vision problems.

Is LASIK safe?
Most patients experience few if any complications resulting from their surgery. As with any surgery however, there are risks. Some of the more common complications associated with LASIK surgery include:

• Over or under correction.
• Dry eyes or irritation following surgery.
• Partial or full loss of vision.

Fortunately these symptoms and risks can be minimized through proper screening processes. Make sure you talk with your eye care professional about the risks of surgery to determine whether lasik is a good choice for you. Not everyone is an ideal candidate for lasik.

Is LASIK surgery expensive?
Most procedures cost between $1500 and $2000 for each eye. This is for traditional LASIK surgery. Newer procedures including IntraLase or bladeless lasik may cost up to $2500 for each eye. Most LASIK eye doctors offer patient's payment plans or financing to help reduce the burden associated with paying for LASIK surgery. If you think about how much you may spend on contact lenses or eyeglasses over a lifetime, you may actually save money in the long-term by having LASIK surgery. Many patients also report that the improvement in their quality of life is worth the risks associated with surgery.

Can I get my insurance company to cover the costs of LASIK?
Typically most insurance companies do not cover lasik surgery. Many consider LASIK surgery cosmetic surgery, even though it is anything but. Outside the U.S.A., LASIK is sometimes covered, including in many European countries. You may however, be able to deduct the costs associated with surgery from your taxes, so check in and find out if you can. This may help offset the cost of surgery. Can anyone have LASIK? Not all patients are ideally suited for LASIK surgery. That is why it is important you visit a qualified surgeon and have a full eye exam before you undergo any type of lasik procedure. Patients that may experience complications include patients with any type of eye disease, patients with a thin cornea or patients with cone shaped corneas. Despite these complications, sometimes different forms of LASIK may be offered to patients. Be sure you talk with your doctor about possible treatment options, and weigh the risks versus the benefits of any procedure before agreeing to surgery.

Will LASIK cause short or long-term pain?
There is relatively little pain associated with the LASIK procedure. Most patients experience little if any discomfort during the procedure. Prior to operating on a patient, the surgeon provides the patient with some calming medication and anesthetic in the form of an eye drop. Following surgery typically discomfort is minimal, and relieved with OTC (over the counter) medicines like ibuprofen or Tylenol.

What other types of LASIK can I explore?
Thanks to modern technology there are many different types of LASIK surgery. There is the bladeless or IntraLase procedure for example, that creates a corneal flap using a femtosecond laser rather than a microkeratome blade. Other procedures include LASEK, where the surgeon flattens the cornea after partially removing the epithelial layers of the cornea. PRK is another common procedure performed by refractive surgeons, where the outer cells of the eye are completely removed and the cornea then reshaped. This surgery is sometimes an alternative to traditional LASIK for patients with thin corneas.

This article from lasik eye surgerycorrection.com

The Benefits of LASIK vs. Contacts and Glasses

LASIK: It's the latest and greatest, right? Life without glasses not so bad either, right? Unless you've been living in a cave you must have heard of laser surgery or LASIK. It's the newest and fastest growing tool eye surgeons now use to correct visual disturbances including nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and more!

Many people with contacts and glasses like them; others have waited a long time for technology to come up with a way to change their lives… to give them back their freedom. Some people are still on the fence waiting for the technology to be absolutely perfected. For many LASIK surgery is the tool they have been waiting for. BUT…

Doing Your Homework:
Before you jump into the surgeon's chair, you better know what lies ahead. Let's compare LASIK surgeries to contemporary or traditional contacts and eyeglasses to see which you might prefer. Your answer may (or may not) surprise you.

How They Measure Up:
Perhaps you have worn glasses your whole life and want to try something new, but are not at all interested in contacts. In fact, the very idea of inserting a contact into your eye gives you the willies. Well, don't worry, you are not alone.

Alternatively, perhaps you are a contact lens wearer that is tired of spending money on disposables. You probably have a pair of back-up eyeglasses, but decide you'd rather not wear them. OK, that's just fine. So what do you do? LASIK may present new alternatives for those formerly resigned to wearing glasses or contact lenses. EVEN people with hard to correct vision problems may benefit from LASIK. While you may not be able to achieve perfect vision, you might dramatically improve the quality of your vision, and thus your life in general.

For some, while contacts or glasses can be fun, they may also prove a burden. How can that happen? Let's talk more about the pros and cons of each and you'll soon decide whether LASIK would benefit you and your lifestyle.

Eyeglasses:
For many, eyeglasses are fun. They are a way to enhance one's appearance and a relatively inexpensive way to express one's personality. If lost, they are generally replaceable. You can mix them up and change them to match your mood, your outfit and your budget. Many people buy eyeglasses frames with clear plastic lenses to spice up a jacket.

Naturally, there are people that do not feel wearing eyeglasses is of any benefit. Naturally, as you expect, there are of course, some cons to wearing glasses. Glasses for example, distort the form and size of objects you may look at. So, while you may "think" you are seeing clearly, you are only seeing through the limited frame of your glasses. Many people with glasses can't see beyond the periphery of the frames they select.

Eyeglasses can improve your appearance, but they might also detract from it or highlight a big nose. They can make your eyes appear larger than they are, so you come out with a raccoon like effect. Unless you pay for the right lenses, you may experience glare. This is one of the worst side effects of wearing eyeglasses. If you don't remember to take them off before a photo shoot, you will look like your eyes are nothing but bright white orbs!

Some frames are heavy, though you can buy lightweight frames. For those with thick lenses however, heavy frames may be the only option, gradually leaving a permanent imprint on the bridge of one's nose. Eyeglasses are also subject to wear and tear and do eventually need to be replaced. Think about how many times you sat on your glasses by mistake! If you haven't count yourself lucky, because sooner or later someone always does, even if you don't personally smash them.

Contact Lenses:
The greatest advantage contact lenses have over glasses is they are convenient and allow the wearer to retain their natural appearance. That means you don't have to worry about looking bug eyed or getting headaches from wearing thick lenses.

They don't sit on the face, so if you have a large nose you don't have to worry about your eyeglasses enhancing your nose even more than usual. Contacts move with your eyes, so you can get away with wearing them without someone necessarily knowing you even need them. They can also be fun. You can now buy contacts in multiple colors, to change the color or shape of your eye. This is perhaps the greatest benefit for people that want to make wearing contacts fun and engaging. Think about it… you can be green eyed one day and blue the next!

Those wearing contacts however, are prone to infection. You are much more likely to get an infection from wearing contacts than you are from wearing glasses. You are probably less at risk for infection if you have LASIK too, depending on the type of LASIK surgery you elect.

Another problem with contacts is you have to care for your contacts religiously. If you don't you will either break them or irritate your eye, causing an infection! Some people find wearing contacts irritating. There are others that try as they might, just can't get the dang things in their eye, so what is a person supposed to do?

As you can see, there are pros and cons with everything. Some people will simply never be able to wear contacts because they find them irritating or they simply won't correct their vision enough to make purchasing them worthwhile. Which leads us to the next option; sizing up contacts and eyeglasses to LASIK. You know; laser eyes!

Contacts and Glasses Vs. Lasik
The key difference between LASIK and contacts or glasses is LASIK improves vision so the user doesn't have to worry about prescription lenses most of the time (MOST not all of the time). At the very least, LASIK can correct vision so that visual disturbances are minimal. That means for all the bulky eyeglass wearers out there, there is hope you can correct your vision well enough to you can finally buy the featherweight glasses you've always wanted.

They'll make you look more distinguished, right?
Here are some real advantages of LASIK over corrective lenses:

1. Glasses limit peripheral vision, whereas LASIK improves overall vision. So, if LASIK works well, you will be able to see well without having to worry about missing something that falls outside your primary visual field.
2. LASIK typically improves vision more precisely than glasses or contact lenses can, especially when the patient received custom procedures that map the exact contours of the eye. That means you may walk away from the procedure with better vision than someone that has never had to wear corrective lenses!
3. Certain LASIK procedures can help address higher or lower order aberrations of the eye, resulting in improved vision. Thanks to modern technology, even when things go wrong with the eye, LASIK can often make them right!
4. LASIK is good for those that have moderate vision problems and want the security of being able to see without wearing lenses or eyeglasses. Let's face it; everyone has lost a pair of glasses or a contact at some point in their life; what do you do if you don't have a spare handy? Do you just go blind? No, you go LASIK.
5. LASIK over time will probably save you more money than you spend. Think about the number of eyeglasses you buy over time or the pairs of contacts; you may have already spent more than you might if you just used LASIK to improve your vision. Then you can just keep a pair of glasses or contacts on stand by as a fond memento of times long past.

That said there are some downsides to LASIK. There are relatively few complications associated with wearing contact lenses, and almost none associated with wearing glasses. LASIK surgery however, does come with some risks. The most commonly reported side effects include long lasting dry eyes.

You should also note that LASIK is surgery to your eye; that means your surgeon will permanently change the shape of your eye. The idea is to help you achieve perfect or near perfect vision. Sometimes however, you suffer complications that actually distort your vision in a way that cannot be corrected, even if you go back to wearing glasses.

Some patients are at risk for corneal abrasion or other problems. Some studies suggest LASIK surgery may contribute to higher order aberrations, the very ones it sometimes corrects interestingly enough.

Still other patients may experience under or over correction. That means you will probably have to pay for another LASIK procedure to fix the over or under correction and hope your surgeon gets it right the next time.

Fortunately, by selecting a competent surgeon and carefully selecting the type of LASIK procedure you undergo, most of the time you can reduce your risk of complication to the point where the benefits of surgery outweigh any risks. Most people report they are happy with the results of LASIK. For many LASIK has been a lifesaver, allowing them to participate in activities they may never have had they not treated their eyes to surgery.

As with anything in life, you have to consider your personal health, your medical history and your love or hate of wearing lenses. This will help you decide whether LASIK is right for you. If I had the money, I would bank on it. AFTER finding a really good surgeon that is…

Does LASIK Save Money?
When it comes to cost, LASIK is superior to both glasses and contacts, because while you may pay more for surgery initially, over your lifetime you will end up paying less. The average person for example, who wears glasses, will likely own several different pairs during their lives. They may also need to replace lenses periodically because of damage or a changing prescription. They may want to combine contacts with their glasses. They may need prescription sunglasses. You can get the cheapest pair of glasses or contacts available. Most people with moderate vision problems however, can spend up to $400 or more on a good pair of glasses. Over time, this will likely add up to far more than the initial $1-3k investment in LASIK surgery.

HOWEVER, (there is always a but), there are cases where you need multiple laser procedures because the first surgery leads to complications. When this is the case you may spend more than you intended. One way to prevent the shock that comes with paying for another surgery is insurance. Find out if your insurance provides any relief or assistance with payments resulting from less than ideal outcomes. Alternately, you can talk to your surgery center about your post surgical options.

Most LASIK specialists are more than happy to convert the world of contact lens and eyeglass wearers to the world of perfected laser vision…

This article from lasik eye surgerycorrection.com

7 Things To Consider Before Getting Lasik Eye Surgery

Lasik Surgery Cost
Everyone with contacts or glasses has dreamed about someday, just once, being able to swim without contacts or glasses - and enjoy it! To see everything around them and have just as much fun as their friends with perfect vision have. Lasik has made that dream a reality for thousands of people, and it's become very popular. As the technology has matured, safety has increased, and prices have become affordable for more people than ever before. But that doesn't mean Lasik is an instant, slam-dunk decision for everybody. Here are 7 things you should consider before going under the laser.

1. How old are you?The question of how old you should be before having Lasik done is somewhat unclear. The Food and Drug Administration recommends not having it done until you are at least 18, while many optometrists advise waiting until as old as 25! However, the exact numeric age is actually not the deciding factor. Rather, the important thing is that your eyes have been stable (ie, your prescription has not changed) for at least two years. This ensures that your corneas are fully developed and capable of withstanding a surgical procedure. At a bare minimum, you'll want to check with your eye doctor to make sure this is the case.
2. Have you tried contacts yet?Eye surgery has come a long way, but like any surgery, it's still risky. If you have worn glasses your entire life, why not give contacts a shot before taking the plunge? Today's soft lenses are so comfortable and convenient that most wearers don't even feel them. Comfort-wise, it's as though they aren't wearing contacts at all. Of course, contact lenses bring new responsibilities into the fray, such as taking them out at night, storing them in saline solution, and replacing them on a timely basis. Still, if you're prepared to get laser surgery on your eyes, it couldn't hurt to give this a try first!
3. Are your glasses or contacts really a pain? One of the biggest reasons for getting Lasik is the annoyance of caring for and wearing contacts or glasses. While it can no doubt be a pain, some people make it harder than it needs to be. Many contact lens wearers, for example, make life harder on themselves by continuing to wear contacts that have calcium deposits on them, or sleeping in their lenses, both of which can scratch the eyeball. Who knows - with some better eye care, you might find that glasses or contacts aren't as big of a pain as you think!
4. Are you getting the procedure done by a reputable practitioner?If you've decided to go ahead and get the surgery, great! However, you need to be extremely careful and conscientious in selecting the practitioner. You only get the two eyes you have, and placing them in the care of an inexperienced or incompetent surgeon is beyond foolish. Luckily, finding a skilled, experienced Lasik surgeon isn't very hard work. Simply browse the Internet for positive references and testimonials (preferably from non-commercial sources like Yahoo! Answers or WebMD) or ask friends or relatives who already had it done. Don't take this suggestion lightly, as the right practitioner can make all the difference!
5. What is the expected recovery time of the procedure?The recovery period after getting Lasik is another important thing to consider. You might not be able to go back to work the same day, or even the same week. Some also claim that you cannot drive in the first few days following the procedure. This is not to discourage you from getting the surgery, of course. The point is just that recovery can take a short while and you should plan for it in deciding whether or when to get Lasik done. As long as you have a few days to devote to recovery, it could be the best decision of your life!
6. Do you have astigmatism?People with astigmatism are not always eligible to have Lasik done. According to eMedicine, astigmatism is more difficult to correct in spectacles, contact lenses, or surgery than are spherical forms of refractive error." Fortunately, thanks to recent advances, some people with astigmatism can get Lasik done with very positive results. Your optometrist can evaluate the seriousness of your astigmatism and lay out your options for eye surgery, so schedule an appointment!
7. Have you fully considered the risks? Make no mistake: correctly performed, Lasik surgery can make a great and lasting difference in your quality of life. However, there are risks to consider, such as dry eye syndrome, temporary loss of vision, or the possibility of still needing contacts or glasses after the surgery to achieve 20/20 vision. The likelihood of these risks has certainly gone down in the last five years, but it still pays to be mindful of them in making your decision. Ask your optometrist how likely these risks are in his experience, and whenever possible, ask friends or relatives who've already gotten it done. Eye surgery is definitely a case where it pays to do your homework!
   

By: Fred Jones

Ten Tough Questions You Should Ask Your Doctor About Lasik Surgery

Lasik Surgery Cost


No amount or type of technology can make up for an inexperienced or inadequate doctor, so the most important consideration when contemplating laser vision correction surgery is the quality of the surgeon. The only way to determine the quality of the doctor, of course, is to do a thorough investigation.

The first thing to do is to check with the various accrediting groups, your state’s medical board and the local office of the American Medical Association. Once you have established the doctor’s standing, you need to ask some serious questions. Although there is certainly no exact number of questions to ask, and there are many possible ones, we have developed this list of ten tough questions you should ask your doctor about LASIK surgery.

Of course, for you to gauge the answers, you will have to be informed about the procedure, its history and technique, possible complications and even LASIK surgery cost. Following the questions there are some brief suggested answers, but your doctor may answer them somewhat differently. Therefore, you need to be educated enough about laser vision correction to assess the responses.

Use common sense and always request evidence of all claims concerning education, training, certification and patient outcomes. You should also assess the doctor’s willingness to reply almost as much as the response itself. The doctor should offer to make arrangements for any requested test or examination that the doctor does not normally provide.

If you do not completely understand the questions or answers, then you are not ready to approach the physician. Use the DocShop.com resources and search out other resources until you are comfortable with the terminology and the procedure itself. Then present the doctor with some or all of the following questions, and keep good notes of the replies.

1. How long have you been performing this surgery? (Many experts recommend that this be at least three years.)
2. How many procedures have you performed total, and how many in the last year? (Look for about 500 and at least 150, respectively.)
3. How many procedures—of the exact type you will use for me, with the same equipment, to correct the same refractive error—have you performed? (At least 100.)
4. What percentage of your patients report unresolved complications six months after surgery? (The norm is under three percent, with less than .5 percent being serious complications.)
5. Have you had a successful surgery malpractice claim of greater than $30,000? (If "yes," get details.)
6. What is the worst surgery outcome of any patient and how did you handle it? (All doctors with sufficient surgical experience have had negative outcomes. You need to be comfortable that your doctor can handle problems effectively.)
7. Have you ever had hospital or surgical facility privileges, or your Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) certification, revoked, suspended or restricted? (Answer should be no.)
8. Have you ever been convicted of a crime, arrested for being under the influence or possessing any controlled substance, or treated for drug abuse or mental illness as an adult? (Generally speaking, the answer should be no, but you should discuss the circumstances and make up your own mind about potential doctors. A problem 20 years ago when a college student may not be germane today.)
9. Is the LASIK equipment you use specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for laser vision correction? (If not, ask the doctor to explain why it is not FDA approved.)10. What certification do you hold, if any, from the American Board of Ophthalmology, American Board of Eye Surgery and the Council for Refractive Surgery Quality Assurance? (The best doctors are members of all three.)

There are scores more questions that you could potentially ask about the equipment, the procedure and your own suitability for the operation.

By: Monica Keller

Lasik Eye Surgery: Is It Right For You?

Lasik Surgery Cost

If you have poor eyesight and you have worn eyeglasses or contact lenses all your life, then you might want to consider LASIK eye surgery.

LASIK is the acronym for Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileuses. This is a procedure where the patient has to undergo surgery to reduce or totally eliminate a person's poor eyesight.

There are certain eye imperfections that cause poor eyesight. Examples of these are:

• Astigmatism : A person with astigmatism sees 'distorted' imaged which is a result of deformities or irregularities on the lenses of the eyes.-
• Nearsightedness : A person who is nearsighted has a condition called myopia. Here, the patient experiences difficulties seeing objects at a distance.-
• Farsightedness : On the other hand, a person who is farsighted sees far objects without difficulty but the same does not apply to near objects. This condition is also called hyperopia.

To treat these ailments, LASIK eye surgery is used, and this is the most common method of refractive surgery performed for patients nowadays.

'The Procedure'

In LASIK surgery, there is a knife-like tool that is mainly used for the procedure: the microkeratome.

This is used to produce a very thin and rounded flap in the clear, outer layer covering the front or the eye which is the cornea. A more technologically-advanced way to create this flap is by the use of laser.

The shape of the cornea is changed permanently once this surgery is performed.

After the flap on one side of the eye is produced, this is folded back to reveal the stroma. The stroma is the mid-section of the cornea.

Afterwards, the microkeratome or the laser beam will vaporize a part of the stroma by producing computer-controlled pulses.

Then, the flap is put back into place after making the necessary corrections.

There are other types of refractive surgery that may be performed on a patient,depending on the degree of visual disability.

'The Pros & Cons'

This type of surgery that aims to correct poor vision is very popular. Why do you think this is so? Here is a list of the advantages of LASIK eye surgery:

1. You will not feel pain while undergoing the procedure.
2. The results are immediate. Right after the surgery, you will experience an improvement with your eyesight. At the very least, you will get to literally "see" results a day or two after the operation.

Still, there is a downside to this type of medical procedure. Take a look at some of them and decide for yourself if undergoing the surgery is worth the risk:

1. Complications may arise. Different patients respond differently to treatment. If there are certain health issued that your doctor is not aware of, the procedure may not have positive results.
2. There are certain jobs or profession which prohibit an employee undergoing LASIK eye surgery. Be sure to check with your employer first if you think that this surgery might in any way inhibit you from doing your work.
3. The procedure is quite costly. Over the years and because of its gaining popularity, the costs have gone down considerably.

However, it is still quite a hefty amount to squeeze out of your pocket if you are on a budget. If you plan to undergo this type of surgery, ask your doctor about the rates.

'Should You Do It?'

If you are not the type of person to boldly take risks,LASIK eye surgery may not be right for you.

Before deciding to undergo the procedure, make sure that you know about the costs, health risks and take all the necessary precautions.

Also, talk with your doctor about what you should do before, during and after the surgery.Ask them what you can expect to feel and the results that you will get right after the procedure.

By: Robert Thatcher -

Find A Lasik Surgery New York Clinic

Lasik Surgery Cost

It is mainly for the hassle and price of the corrective lenses or contact lenses that more and more people are opting for the Lasik surgery. In a Lasik surgery the ordinary disorders of the vision like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism are corrected with laser surgery. Since the procedure was first executed in United States in the year 1991, more than a million people have undergone the operation and the success rate of Lasik is considerably higher. The Lasik procedure is quite common these days and thee are many eye clinics which offer the service. So, if you are searching for a Lasik surgery New York clinic it will not be complicated for you to find.

Before we get into the symposium of how to discover a good Lasik surgery New York clinic let us give you an idea of what exactly the Lasik manoeuvre all about. Lasik that stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis is process in which the cornea is resurfaced with the help of mild laser rays to spot on the refractory malformations of the eye. In the case of refractive disorders of the eye, light is not refracted properly to the retina, resulting in blurry images. During the Lasik process the surgeon cuts the top layer of the cornea and makes a flap. By turning open the flap the surgeon resurfaces the stroma that is the under layer of the cornea with laser rays. This results in the correctness of the refractory angle and then the light is conceded straight to the retina and the difficulties in the vision are treated everlastingly.

The best part of the Lasik surgery is that the progression takes very less time, you feel least pain or disquiet and healing process is relatively faster. So, within little time and with little cost you can get rid of those heavy glasses forever. To get the best benefits of the Lasik surgery, you need to find out a proficient lasik eye center. If you are living at New York, it is quite easy to find out a Lasik surgery New York clinic and it takes little effort to find one according to your expediency.

Lasik New York City clinics have the right infrastructure and all the latest equipments to carry out a flourishing Lasik operation. You can seek aid of your acquaintances who have availed service of Lasik surgery New York centre.

By: A Singh

The Cost Of Lasik Surgery Is Worth It For Many

Lasik Surgery Cost

These days, there is a great deal of interest in the different types of vision eye surgery that is offered. Lasik is one of the most popular of the various kinds of corrective eye surgery options because it can be done in under an hour, recovery time is very quick, and the risks are quite low.

In addition, for many with vision problems, the cost of Lasik eye surgery is quite low when they take in to account the many benefits they receive, especially not having to deal with breaking (or constantly losing) their glasses or the need to deal with the hassle of contact lenses.

In general, the cost will vary quite a bit depending on the exact type of corrective eye surgery that you need. The price of a Lasik procedure can also be affected by the type of facility you choose, whether the Lasik eye surgery center is affiliated with a hospital or not, the country where you reside and the region of the country where you live.

There are some enticing ads that claim their clinic's cost of Lasik eye surgery can start as low as $500 for each eye that is being corrected. However, with some due diligence and careful consultation and comparisons, people are more likely to discover the real starting cost to be about $1,000 per eye and this can go as high as $2,500 depending on the facility and the laser eye surgeon.

Unfortunately, aside from the many benefits of corrective eye surgery, the high cost simply puts it out of range for many people. This is especially true for those who have no type of insurance coverage to help pay for some of the expense. Even for those who do have optical insurance, many will find their coverage limited. Many insurance policies exclude this type of laser eye surgery altogether because they consider it to be optional and not necessary, since in most cases the vision can be improved with some type of corrective lenses.

However, there are many people who have sufficient resources and motivation that are not at all put off by the cost of eye surgery. Some people value the convenience of never having to wear glasses again.

Others look forward to never having to deal with the fuss of changing and cleaning contact lenses. Still other's are motivated by vanity and don't want anyone to know that they had a vision problem that needed correction.

Regardless of the reasons why people seek out corrective eye surgery, there are many laser eye surgeons being kept happily in business by the demand of this procedure, regardless of the cost. Part of the reason why it has become such a popular practice is because a large segment of the population is comprised of the baby-boomer generation, ranging in age from 45 to 65, who are experiencing vision deterioration.

When it comes down to it, no matter how much the cost of Lasik eye surgery, there are simply some vision conditions for which this type of procedure is not effective. In those cases, other types of corrective eye surgery might be suggested by your eye doctor, or corrective lenses might be your only option. Lasik vision surgery is most effective for correcting astigmatisms, nearsightedness and farsightedness.

By: Michael Selvon