FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS LASIK?

LASIK (laser assisted in situ keratomileusis) is corrective laser surgery used to treat refractive

errors of the eye including myopia (nearsighted), hyperopia (farsighted), and astigmastism. First, a thin flap is created on the cornea, the clear outer surface of the eye. The flap is then lifted while the surgeon uses the excimer laser to remove small amounts of underlying tissue to reshape the cornea. The corneal flap is then manually repositioned.

WHAT IS iLASIK?

iLASIK combines the IntraLase and Excimer lasers to provide laser vision correction. The IntraLase method is a 100% blade-free approach to creating your LASIK flap – the thin flap of tissue that the doctor folds back in order to perform your LASIK procedure. The IntraLase method can only be performed using the IntraLase Laser.

Traditionally, doctors have used an instrument called a microkeratome for the creation of LASIK flaps. The microkeratome is a hand-held blade that move across the eye, cutting the LASIK flap as it goes. LASIK is extremely safe, but if complications do occur, the microkeratome is frequently the cause.

The IntraLase method, by contrast, enables your doctor to create an individualized LASIK flap without a blade ever touching your eye.

Am I a good candidate?

In general most people are good candidates if:
You are at least 21 years of age
You are in good general health
You have a stable prescription for at least one year
You have no existing eye disease

You should not have refractive surgery if:
You have collagen vascular, autoimmune, or immunodeficiency diseases
You are pregnant or nursing
You show signs of keratoconus (corneal disease)
You are taking one or both of the following medications:
-Accutane (isotretinoin)
-Cordarone (amiodarone hydrochloride)

Discuss with your doctor if you are diabetic, have severe allergies, or have a history of Herpes
simplex or Herpes zoster of the eye.

How long does iLASIK take?

Although the treatment itself is usually less than one minute per eye, the entire procedure
usually lasts about 15-20 minutes.

What if I am extremely nervous?

You will be given the option to take a mild sedative prior to your procedure. It is very important
that you be able to fixate on a blinking light during the procedure. Therefore, we do not want you to be
sleepy, only relaxed.

What if I cannot hold my eyes open?

The surgeon will gently insert a speculum between your eyelids to help hold them open. Your
opposite eye will be covered with a shield to help you focus on the blinking light.

Are both eyes done at the same time?

Typically, most patients choose to have both eyes done the same day. However, doing one eye at time can be an option.

Does iLASIK hurt?

Prior to the procedure, numbing drops will be placed in your eyes. Most patients have little or no discomfort during the procedure. Mild irritation and tearing is common for the first 4-6 hours afterwards. Napping is encouraged to help rest the eyes. By the next day most of the irritation will have subsided.

Will I be able to drive after LASIK?

You will need to make arrangements for a driver the day of surgery. Most people will have blurred vision immediately following LASIK. This will resolve as the day goes by. It is best not to plan any activities on the day of your procedure.

What type of follow up care is needed?

Post-operative visits with your eye surgeon are a very important part of your healing process. You will need to plan on appointments with your doctor at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 month and 1 year intervals following your procedure.

When can I return to work?

You may return to work when you are confident with your vision and your comfort allows. Most patients are able to return within 2 days.

What if I move during the procedure?
Your surgeon has the ability to stop the laser at any time. The laser is also equipped with a safety feature that detects movement. The laser will stop automatically. Once the eye is realigned, treatment will resume at the point from which is was stopped.

Will I need to wear glasses after LASIK?

It is important to understand the LASIK does not eliminate to need for reading glasses. Around the age of 40 the eye loses the ability to focus up close for reading, also known as presbyopia.

PATIENT INFORMATION BOOKLET: Facts You Need to Know?

Because LASIK is a permanent treatment, it is very important that you understand the risks and benefits. Please review the following booklet before talking with your doctor. This booklet can help you prepare questions about your vision treatment plan.

For a more comprehensive overview of LASIK and FDA Guidelines on LASIK surgery click here.

 
 

 

iLASIK

Free Screening

Thinking about Laser Vision Correction? CALL TODAY to schedule a free consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for the iLasik Procedure.

iLASIK, the revolutionary ALL-LASER surgical solution endorsed by top medical experts and the US military and astronaut programs can help adults reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. If you are seeking an Arkansas LASIK specialist we are excited to introduce you to the ultimate in laser vision correction, it’s called the iLASIK™.

ADVANCED TREATMENT FOR EYES

Medical care that makes you feel like a person, now that's innovation. Providing excellence in eye care for over 16 years, Baker Eye Institute offers advanced treatment for surgical and medical diseases of the eye and eyelid along with traditional vision care. Now providing the latest in Laser Vision Correction, Baker Eye is pleased to offer all Laser LASIK. You likely know someone here in Arkansas already enjoying our friendly, state-of-the-art vision care.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Schedule your eye care appointment with Baker Eye Institute by simply filling out our online form. For your convenience we have provided patient forms online so that you may print them and fill them out prior to your appointment.

FINANCING OPTIONS

Baker Eye Institute values the importance of vision. We have taken great length to provide our patients with Financing Options so that their vision doesn't become a burden to their lifestyle.