» LASIK Surgery

Enjoy Clearer Vision Without Glasses Or Contact Lenses

If you are nearsighted, farsighted or suffer from astigmatism, you may be able to take advantage of exciting new refractive surgery procedures to reduce your dependence on glasses or contact lenses - and in many cases, eliminate the need for visual aides altogether.

Refractive errors result from problems with the way the human eye bends and focuses light. The cornea, or “window” of your eye, enables you to see by focusing, or refracting, light through the lens onto the retina. The retina converts the light rays into impulses and sends them to your brain where they’re recognized as images. When the cornea and lens don’t focus the rays precisely on the retina, there is a “refractive error” and the image you see is unclear.

Innovative eye surgery (Laser Surgery) now makes it possible to improve the eye’s natural focus safely and effectively by reshaping the surface of the cornea. The result is clearer vision.

Note: Laser vision correction cannot correct a condition known as presbyopia, aging of the eye, that normally occurs around age 40 and may require the use of reading glasses. In fact, people over 40 who have their nearsightedness reduced with surgery may find they need reading glasses sooner after the procedure.

• Are at least 18 years old;
• Have eyes free from retinal problems, cataract or certain other eye diseases;
• Are not pregnant;
• Do not have severe diabetes or an autoimmune disease; and
• Have the appropriate refractive error that can be helped with this procedure.

• LASIK is the newest and most powerful refractive surgery procedure.
• The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and takes about 15 minutes.
• After the surgeon creates a wafer-thin flap on the cornea’s surface, the laser reshapes the cornea surface to correct the refractive error.
• There are no stitches to heal - when treatment is complete, the cornea flap is replaced in its original position where it self-adheres to the underlying cornea.
• Only the edge around the corneal flap needs to heal which results in rapid recovery.
• Over- or under-correction of vision, glare, corneal haze and infection may occur, but it is uncommon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are the benefits of laser vision correction?
A. The benefits of laser vision correction are clear; seeing the alarm clock clearly in the morning; participating in sports without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses; enjoying most daily activities with the freedom of good, natural vision. Laser vision correction is a lifestyle changing procedure.

Q. Is laser vision correction permanent?
A. Laser vision correction with the VISX Refractive Laser System is intended as a permanent method to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses for nearsightedness. Although your eyes may change naturally as you age, laser vision correction should allow you to perform most activities without the aid of spectacles.

Q. Does it hurt?
A. No. Laser vision correction is performed using drops to numb the surface of the eye. Patients may experience discomfort during the healing process. Your doctor may provide you a prescription for pain tablets and/or eye drops to minimize the discomfort.

Q. How long does it take?
A. The actual laser time is less than 60 seconds for most corrections.

Q. How much does it cost?
A. Laser vision correction has become quite affordable to patients. Ask our financial counselor about a flexible payment plan.

Q. Am I a candidate?
A. Our Eye MD will be able to determine whether or not your vision condition is correctable with the VISX laser system. The initial consultation appointment will include a regular eye examination, medical history, and answers to additional questions you might have.

Q. What doctors perform LASIK surgery at Jones Eye Institute?

Michael N.Wiggins, M.D.

Because we are a teaching and research center, you can be confident that your refractive eye surgeon knows the most advanced medical procedures and technologies. The Jones Eye Institute is one of only 20 free-standing ophthalmology research and treatment centers in the country. To schedule an appointment for LASIK surgery, call 501-686-8891.