LASIK FAQs

LASIK is a surgical procedure intended to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contacts. Find answers below to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about laser vision correction from some of the most experienced and respected surgeons in Pennsylvania.

The board certified cornea surgery experts at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania – Adam J. Altman, MD, Jonathan D. Primack, MD, and Kevin J. Shah, MD – have more than 40 combined years of LASIK experience and are the only cornea fellowship-trained LASIK specialists in the region. They perform all procedures in the safety and comfort of their on-site laser suite in their fully licensed Wyomissing surgery center.

Drs. Altman, Primack and Shah prefer the state-of-the-art Bladeless Custom LASIK technique, also called “all-laser” LASIK, as well as the PRK technique for individuals who are not optimal candidates for LASIK.

What is “Bladeless” or “All Laser” Custom LASIK?

This state-of-the-art procedure is our preferred method of laser vision correction for the majority of patients. The technique involves two lasers: a femtosecond laser, which safely and painlessly creates a corneal flap by means of infrared laser energy instead of a metal blade, and an excimer laser, which reshapes the cornea to correct the refractive error (glasses / contact lenses prescription).

Bladeless LASIK offers several important advantages compared to the older LASIK technique that uses a metal blade:

• It reduces the risks associated with passing a metal blade through the surface of the eye.
• The precise flap is thinner and allows for greater corneal stability and higher levels of correction.
• It allows both eyes to be treated in the same surgery session, one right after the other.

What is “PRK”?

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) reshapes the surface of the cornea without cutting a flap. The excimer laser removes microscopic layers of tissue from the surface of the cornea, changing its shape and allowing light rays to focus more precisely on the retina.

PRK is often the safest and most effective option for patients with thin corneal tissue, flat corneas, or corneal irregularities or scars, who may not be good candidates for LASIK surgery.

Is LASIK Painful?

Most patients are surprised to find that LASIK eye surgery is quick and painless. Your eyes are numbed with anesthetic eye drops. While some people may feel a little pressure during the 15 to 30-minute surgery, there is never any pain or discomfort. After surgery, any minor irritation you may feel can be alleviated with artificial tears and a good night’s sleep.

Are You a Candidate for Bladeless LASIK Surgery?

If you are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism, at least 18 years old, have not had previous eye surgery, and have never been diagnosed with an eye disease (such as cataracts or glaucoma), you may be a good candidate for LASIK surgery. The only way to know for sure is to schedule an evaluation with our cornea specialists.

How Long Does LASIK Surgery Last?

LASIK surgery restores vision in nearly every patient and is permanent; however, the procedure does not change normal age-related problems that may come up many years down the road. Most people will need reading glasses after the age of 50, and some people will develop cataracts as they age. Regular checkups with your eye doctor can help diagnose and treat these age-related eye problems early.

The LASIK specialists at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania have the skills and experience to deliver good outcomes from your LASIK eye surgery.  Contact us today for answers to other questions you may have or to schedule a free consultation.