No, your eyes will be numb from the anesthetic eye drops so you will feel minimal if any discomfort. You will feel a slight pressure sensation—like someone resting a finger on top of your closed eyelid—for a few seconds while the flap is created.
How will I keep my eyes from moving when the laser is working?
This is a valid concern as we have found that even the smallest eye movements during the laser procedure can result in less than satisfactory visual outcomes. Instead of relying on you to keep your eyes still or trusting computerized eye trackers that are known to have
short comings, we have developed a video-assisted eye stabilization system. This unique technology enables our surgeon to hold your eyes precisely on target (within 1/100ths of an inch) so you don't have to worry.
What will the treatment be like for me?
How long does the treatment take?
Although the actual laser time is usually less than a minute for each eye, patients are in the laser suite 10-15 minutes for both eyes. However, there is some preparation time before surgery when we double check critical eye measurements and perform additional tests. Plan to be in our office 2-3 hours on the day of your treatment.
A microkeratome is a small, complex and highly engineered surgical instrument that the surgeon uses to create the micro-thin corneal flap. These instruments cost $20,000 to $60,000 each and generally consist of 3 main parts: the suction ring that uses vacuum pressure to hold the instrument in position on the eye's surface, the head containing the plate and the blade, and a tiny motor that oscillates the blade and moves the instrument across the eye.
Can the suction used to hold the microkeratome on the eye cause damage?
Yes, it has been shown that too much vacuum pressure for more than 1 minute can cause damage to the eye's nerve fiber layer. For this reason we keep the suction ring in place for a very short time (5 to 10 seconds).
How will I keep my eyes open during surgery?
The surgeon gently inserts an eye spring between your eyelids to keep your eye open during the procedure.
Can my family and friends watch?
Yes, we actually encourage family involvement in your surgery. Your friends or family are invited to be with you and may view the entire surgery from our glass-walled observation area. A video camera attached to the surgeon's microscope provides a close-up view of surgery on a television monitor. One of our staff will accompany your guests and explain the procedure.
