LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a surgical procedure that is designed to reduce your dependency on glasses and contact lenses. Here at Chicago Cornea Consultants, our LASIK surgeons use the latest in laser vision correction technology to ensure each patient receives optimal results. In addition to LASIK, our surgeons also offer Epi LASIK, LASEK and PRK which are forms of “advanced surface ablation”, or ASA. These procedures may be more suitable for patients with very high amounts of refractive errors, thin corneas, or both. We have three convenient locations to serve you, including Chicago, Highland Park, and Hoffman Estates.
LASIK
LASIK is a laser vision correction procedure that treats refractive errors, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism (oval curvature), etc. by removing corneal tissue beneath the surface of the cornea.
During the LASIK procedure, a flap is created on the surface of the cornea with the Intralase laser. A computer-controlled excimer laser is then used to remove the proper amount of corneal tissue. In less than one minute, the excimer laser reshapes the internal layer of the cornea, or “stroma”. The thin flap of corneal tissue is then folded back into its original position, where it bonds after only a few minutes. The entire LASIK procedure usually takes about five to seven minutes per eye.
No stitches or eye patches are required after LASIK and the healing time is usually very fast. In fact, most patients are able to return to their regular daily activities the day after their LASIK procedure. Also, the results of LASIK are long-lasting, so you can view the world with a clear, crisp vision for years to come!
If you want to learn more about LASIK, contact Chicago Cornea Consultants in Chicago, Highland Park, or Hoffman Estates today. Call our office at (800) 8-CORNEA and speak to one of our experienced Refractive Coordinators or request an appointment online!
Am I a Good Candidate for LASIK?
If you answer yes to the following questions, you may be an ideal candidate for LASIK:
- Are you over the age of 18?
- Have you had a stable glasses or contact lens prescription for at least two years?
- Do you have sufficient corneal thickness?
- Are you affected by one of the common types of vision problems or refractive errors, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism?
- Are you free of diseases that may reduce the effectiveness of LASIK or your ability to heal properly and quickly?
- Are you adequately informed about the benefits and risks of LASIK?
If you think you may be a good candidate for LASIK, contact Chicago Cornea Consultants in Chicago, Highland Park, or Hoffman Estates to schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons.
What are the Potential Benefits of LASIK?
Most patients who undergo LASIK experience significantly improved vision and many patients can return to work or normal daily activities the day after surgery. Visual recovery is rapid and patients report little or no post-operative pain. The risk of scarring or developing corneal haze is minimal in comparison to other vision correction procedures.
Are There Risks Associated with LASIK?
There are some risks associated with LASIK, including dry eyes, persistent eye pain or discomfort, glares and/or halos when driving at night. Fortunately the risk of significant complications is low.
What Kind of Technology Does Chicago Cornea Consultants Offer?
Our LASIK surgeons utilize the Intralase laser, which precisely forms the corneal flap without the need for cutting, as well as the most advanced excimer laser technology available, the Alcon Wavelight, Allegretto excimer laser, enabling our surgeons to customize your LASIK treatment using Wavefront-guided treatment profiles.
With access to virtually all currently available technology, our LASIK surgeons can specify which laser is best for your individual vision correction needs. If you want to learn more about the LASIK technology we offer at our Chicago, Highland Park, and Hoffman Estate locations, please visit the technology section of our website.
Long-term Vision Correction
For many years, LASIK has been used to provide patients with long-term vision correction. LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, can reduce or eliminate the need for corrective lenses. As technology has advanced, the LASIK surgery procedure has become safer and more effective. Our Chicago practice uses the most advanced laser technology to ensure optimal results and a fast recovery. Contact us today to learn more.
LASIK Surgery Procedure
LASIK surgery is a procedure that relies on advanced technology and precision to reshape the cornea, correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. After a topical anesthetic is applied, a thin flap is created on the surface of the cornea. The flap is lifted, allowing the excimer laser to reshape the inner layers of the cornea. Once the necessary alterations have been made, the corneal flap is replaced, acting like a natural bandage. Typically, LASIK surgery takes just 5-10 minutes per eye.
Laser Technology
At our Chicago practice, we have access to two the most technologically advanced laser instruments the VISX Star S4 IR, and Alcons Allegretto Wavelight system. We only perform blade-free IntraLase LASIK (iLASIK) and utilize the latest version of the IntraLase, the “iFS”. The experienced eye surgeons at Chicago Cornea Consultants select the appropriate laser after reviewing each patient’s unique vision correction needs. To learn more about our advanced technology, we invite you to visit our LASIK technology page.
LASIK Recovery
LASIK eye surgery is a quick outpatient procedure. Patients will return home in sunglasses or protective eye shields. We recommend that our patients plan to rest their eyes for several hours after undergoing LASIK surgery. Following this initial period of rest, vision may be slightly blurred. However, most patients do notice an immediate improvement in vision. Eye drops will be prescribed to help patients avoid infection, and keep the eyes moist. Other side effects include mild discomfort, sensitivity to light, halos and/or glare when driving at night. These side effects usually subside within a week or two after surgery, but can persist for a few months. Following recovery, most patients gain 20/20 vision or better.
Contact Chicago Cornea Consultants
LASIK surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can help patients regain clear vision, minimizing the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. If you have grown tired of having to constantly keep track of your glasses and contact lenses, LASIK might be an effective long-term solution for you. We use the most advanced laser technology to ensure that our patients are receiving the best LASIK treatment available. If you are interested in undergoing LASIK surgery, please contact Chicago Cornea Consultants to schedule a free consultation.
