LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK Eye Surgery in Metairie
A life without glasses or contacts? Most of our patients couldn’t have imagined such an existence before LASIK. At a very young age they were totally dependent upon their glasses or contact lenses in order to complete simple daily activities. They couldn’t conceive of waking up in the morning and seeing the alarm clock. Activities such as driving a car or watching TV were impossible, not to mention swimming or other active sports.
Laser Vision Correction has truly changed their lives and the way that they think about themselves!
LASIK
Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) was originally developed to treat patients who had very poor vision due to corneal disease. The recent advancement of medical lasers has now made it possible to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. The entire surgical process takes place in about 20 minutes and can eliminate the need for corrective lenses.
LASIK Technology
The most important element to achieving successful laser vision correction is to choose your doctor wisely. At Eyecare Associates, our doctors are experienced and highly trained. They use the most advanced technology available today.
In 1999 our doctors founded The Eye Laser Institute, an outpatient surgery center dedicated strictly to LASIK and other technologically advanced refractive procedures. The highly sophisticated CustomVue Wavescan Technology currently being used allows us to provide an unprecedented degree of accuracy, permitting more precise treatments and excellent visual results. This facility is located in the same building as our medical offices. The surgical staff that assist our doctors are highly skilled and experienced.
Our doctors use the newest generation, VISX Star S4 Active Trak Excimer Laser System which incorporates variable beam technology with an active eye tracking system. The Active Trak continuously positions the laser beam precisely on the eye throughout the procedure. It is the only 3D tracker that is capable of tracking all eye movements. The VISX Star S4 provides faster treatment times and allows our surgeons to shape the beam to meet each patient’s individual vision correction as needed.
The Eye Laser Institute is committed to providing the safest and latest advances in laser vision technology as soon as it is FDA approved and research convinces us that it meets the high standards we set for our patients. This allows us to always consider which procedure best meets the visual needs of each individual patient.
VISX Star S4 Eximer Laser
Our doctors use the newest generation, VISX Star S4 Active Trak Excimer Laser System that incorporates variable beam technology with an active eye tracking system. The Active Trak continuously positions the laser beam precisely on the eye throughout the procedure. It is the only 3D tracker that is capable of tracking all eye movements. There is no need to dilate the pupil. This assures accurate placement of the beam, helps our patients feel more at ease during the procedure and allows patients to appreciate their improved vision much quicker.
The VISX Star S4 provides faster treatment times, a smoother surface and allows our surgeons to shape the beam to meet each patient’s individual vision correction need.
CustomVue
WaveScan technology was originally developed for use in high-powered telescopes to reduce the distortions when viewing distant objects in space. This technology has now been applied to laser vision correction, measuring imperfections in the eye never before measured using standard methods for glasses or contact lenses. Each person’s vision is unique, as personal as your DNA or fingerprint; WaveScan-based digital technology has the ability to identify and measure imperfections in each person’s eye 25 times more precisely than standard methods. In addition, WaveScan digital information is transferred to the laser, driving a new level of precision and accuracy.
CustomVue is an individualized laser vision correction procedure that can produce better vision than is possible with glasses or contacts. The advanced measurement capabilities of the WaveScan System are combined with the VISX Star S4 Eximer Laser to provide a level of precision and customization previously unattainable. With the CustomVue procedure, our doctors can now help nearsighted, farsighted and astigmatic individuals achieve a new level of vision by measuring and correcting the unique imperfections of each individual’s vision and providing them with the potential of experiencing their Personal Best Vision!
Congratulations to Our Doctors
Once again, our surgeons were named one of the Laser Vision Top 100 Surgeons from more than 1000 Laser Vision Surgeons nationwide. This achievement was bestowed upon them for their excellence in Refractive Surgery. Each of our doctors reached one of the highest total case volumes in the country. Their vast experience combined with their knowledgeable insight also allowed Eyecare Associates to also be named one of the Top Laser Vision Practices in the United States. Please join us in congratulating our doctors for achieving such an outstanding honor.
Free Laser Vision Correction Evaluation
Laser Vision Correction can treat a broad range of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. An initial free consultation with our Laser Vision Coordinator will confirm if you may be a good candidate. You must be a minimum of 18 years of age, have a stable prescription for at least one year, and have good general and eye health. She will be happy to explain the procedure and answer any questions that you may have.
To find out more about this exciting procedure or to schedule a free consultation call Sherry at 504-883-7667, or request an appointment and we will contact you to answer your questions and schedule an evaluation.
LASIK FAQs
How do I find out if I am a good candidate?
Laser Vision Correction can treat a broad range of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. An initial free consultation with our Laser Vision Coordinator will confirm if you may be a good candidate. You must be a minimum of 18 years of age, have a stable prescription for at least one year, and have good general and eye health. She will be happy to explain the procedure and answer any questions that you may have.
The next step is to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with one of our eye doctors. This is the only way to determine if you are definitely a good candidate for this procedure. The exam includes refracting and dilating your eyes, and a through examination of your retina. Diagnostic testing will also be conducted to determine the thickness of your corneas. Topographical mapping of your corneas is another mechanism used to determine if you are indeed a good candidate.
If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, please feel free to e-mail [email protected] or call 504-455-9825">504-455-9825.
Is LASIK Eye Surgery safe?
Laser Vision correction is an extremely safe procedure IF you are a good candidate. That is why it is so important to choose your doctor wisely. Our doctors are experienced and highly trained. Never would they recommend a procedure to someone unless they were confident that the patient was a good candidate who would achieve improved results from the surgery. Studies show that less than 1% of patients experience a vision decrease after laser surgery. A very small number of individuals may need a re-treatment to achieve their best outcome.
What kind of results can I expect?
Laser Vision Correction is extremely successful in reducing dependence on glasses or contacts. The degree of improvement may vary among patient based upon the severity of their prescription and how quickly they heal. More than 98% of patients who have laser vision correction are able to drive, watch TV and function daily without the need for glasses or contacts.
Does LASIK hurt?
Laser Vision Correction is a very non intrusive procedure. No needles, tubes or IVs! Only anesthetic eye drops are used during the procedure. Occasionally, patients may experience a mild discomfort.
How long does it take before my vision improves?
Many patients see a remarkable improvement in their vision the day following their procedure. The vast majority of individuals are able to drive their car and go to work the next day. Although the speed of recovery depends upon personal healing patterns, most patients notice dramatic visual improvement within a few days. Patients with higher prescriptions may heal more slowly. You should notice a daily improvement in your vision. Slight fluctuations in vision may occur while healing.
How long does LASIK last?
LASIK permanently reshapes the surface of the cornea.
What is CustomVue?
The CustomVue procedure involves the use of a wavescan analyzer which has advanced measurement capabilities. With CustomVue our doctors can now help individuals achieve a new level of vision by measuring and correcting the unique imperfections of each individual’s eyes.
What is the difference between conventional LASIK and CustomVue?
The actual LASIK procedure is performed in exactly the same way in both conventional LASIK and CustomVue LASIK. The pre-operative testing differs because, in addition to the normal diagnostic testing used in conventional LASIK, CustomVue LASIK uses a tool called a wavescan analyzer to accurately measure any tiny imperfections in the eye. Each person’s vision is unique, as personal as their DNA or fingerprint. These measurements are then programmed into the laser. The laser then treats your eye based upon that personalized 3D map. In some patients, these “higher order aberrations” can have a significant impact on one’s quality of vision. Halos and visual glare, especially at night have been linked to these tiny imperfections. Contacts, glasses or conventional LASIK have not been able to treat them. With CustomVue, our doctors are able to assist you in achieving your personal, best vision!
Conventional LASIK is an excellent choice for many patients. You can trust our doctors to help you decide which procedure is best for you. Custom LASIK is necessary for some and desirable for many. Only after discussing your options with your doctor will you be able to determine if CustomVue or conventional LASIK is the right choice.
What is Monovision?
In monovision, the surgeon fully corrects the dominant eye, while leaving the non-dominant eye slightly under corrected. Our brain has the incredible capacity to adjust. It uses the fully corrected dominant eye for clear distance vision while the under corrected non-dominant eye is used for good near vision.
Does insurance cover the cost of LASIK Eye Surgery?
Our insurance department will be happy to check your plan. Some insurances do cover elective treatments while others offer partial coverage.
This Content has been Reviewed and Approved by Our Doctors
The medical information provided on this page has been reviewed and approved by the LASIK surgeons at EyeCare Associates. Our team of board-certified ophthalmologists has thoroughly evaluated the content to ensure it provides accurate, up-to-date information on education, diagnosis, and treatment. This content is intended to educate patients and share the clinical expertise of EyeCare Associates experienced providers. Please seek medical attention in case of an emergency.
