Frequently Asked Questions
 Laser
eye surgery may seem like a big decision. Here are some answers
to common questions. Click on the questions below to view a response:
What is laser vision correction?
What is the difference between PRK and LASIK?
Is laser vision correction safe?
Does laser vision correction hurt?
How well will I see after laser vision correction?
How soon can I return to work?
What are the risks?
How do I know if I can have laser vision correction?
What is laser vision correction?
It is an outpatient treatment that uses a cool beam of light to
gently sculpt the surface of the eye – the cornea- thereby improving
vision. The light gently pulses to remove a microscopic amount of
tissue, flattening the curvature of the cornea, allowing images
to be more sharply focused on the retina.
The Kraff Eye Institute owns two FDA-approved VISX Excimer Star
3 Lasers. This approval means that the FDA has recognized that laser
vision correction with the VISX laser is a safe and effective procedure.
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What is the difference between PRK and LASIK?
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and LASIK (Laser in-situ Keratomileusis)
both utilize the VISX Excimer Laser to remove corneal tissue in
order to flatten the cornea. In the PRK procedure, the laser works
on the surface of the cornea. With LASIK, the surgeon first creates
a flap on the cornea and then uses the laser for treatment below
the corneal surface. The doctors at the Kraff Eye Institute have
performed thousands of laser vision correction procedures since 1991.
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Is laser vision correction safe?
Over two million patients worldwide have had this treatment performed
on them successfully. Our practice has been performing laser vision
correction procedures since 1991, when we were selected as one of
the ten investigational sites in the original FDA clinical trials
that found laser vision correction a safe and effective treatment
for eligible patients.
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Does laser vision correction hurt?
No, the treatment itself is painless. Topical anesthesia (eye drops)
are applied just before the procedure to eliminate any pain. Some
patients may experience discomfort for one to three days after treatment.
Many patients compare this to a sensation of sand in the eye. The
LASIK procedure often results in less discomfort that PRK because
the treatment takes place below the corneal surface.
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How well will I see after laser vision correction?
Results vary with each individual. The large majority of people
can expect vision similar to what they have with their glasses or
contact lenses. In fact, 98% of our patients see well enough to
pass a driver’s test without corrective lenses. Vision may be slightly
blurry in the days following the procedure and some patients experience
small vision changes during the first several months, which is normal.
The LASIK procedure often results in more rapid vision recovery
than PRK.
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How soon can I return to work?
Many patients return to work the day after treatment. Two or three
days of recovery are suggested.
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What are the risks?
There are risks with any medical procedure. The Kraff Eye Institute
doctors will discuss in great detail the risk factors with each
patient, and if a patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure
based on their individual needs. The most common problem associated
with laser vision correction is undercorrection or overcorrection.
Fortunately these problems are usually not visually significant
and can be treated. In a small percentage of patients, an enhancement
may be required.
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How do I know if I can have laser vision correction?
The best way to determine if you are a candidate is to schedule
a no-cost consultation appointment. At this appointment we will
exam your eyes and determine if you are a candidate. In addition
to meeting with one of our professional coordinators, you will meet
with your surgeon to discuss your individual case.
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