Laser Eye Surgery FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

You have questions, we have answers. Here are some common questions we get at our clinic in Vancouver:

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR LASIK?

There are some key factors to consider to ensure that you are qualified for an eye laser treatment.

1. Underlying Medical Conditions

We need to check if you have any underlying medical conditions that might affect your ability to heal properly after the surgery. This includes glaucoma, lupus, diabetes, and other similar conditions.

2. Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, we need to wait until after you have given birth before performing the surgery. This is because pregnancy can cause changes in your body that might affect the surgery.

3. Age

We typically recommend that patients be at least 18 years old before having eye laser surgery. This is because the eyes are still growing and changing until around this age, and we want to make sure that the surgery is performed when the eyes are as stable as possible.

4. Refractive Error

We need to make sure that you have a refractive error in order to be eligible for eye laser surgery. This means that you must be nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism in order to qualify.

5. Corneal Thickness

We need to measure the thickness of your cornea in order to make sure that you have enough tissue for us to work with. If your cornea is too thin, we may not be able to safely perform the surgery.

6. Eye Health

We need to make sure that your eyes are healthy enough to undergo surgery. This means that you should not have any active infections or other problems with your eyes that could complicate the surgery.

7. Visual Stability

Your eyesight should not have improved or deteriorated significantly in the previous year.

If you meet all of the above criteria, then you are likely eligible for eye laser surgery in Vancouver. The next step would be to book a consultation with one of our surgeons in order to discuss the details of the procedure and to see if it is right for you.

HOW MUCH DOES LASER EYE SURGERY COST?

Overall, the cost of laser eye surgery in Vancouver can range from $1,500 to $5,000 per eye. This includes the cost of the procedure, pre-operative tests, and post-operative care. If you have insurance, it may cover some or all of these costs.

Unfortunately, MSP does not cover laser eye surgery. Cataract surgery is the lone exception, since it is covered by the provincial health insurance plan.

If you are interested in having laser eye surgery in Vancouver, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation. During your consultation, we will discuss the cost of the procedure and payment options, and help you determine if it is right for you.

WHICH IS BETTER - PRK OR LASIK?

When considering laser eye surgery, you may be wondering what the difference is between PRK and LASIK. Both procedures correct vision by reshaping the cornea, but they do so in different ways.

Both PRK and LASIK are safe and effective procedures for correcting vision, but the choice between them will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. If you have mild to moderate myopia, PRK may be a good option for you, while those with moderate to high myopia or hyperopia may benefit more from LASIK.

Both types of surgery have a relatively short recovery time, so you can typically expect to see improved vision within a few days following either procedure. However, it is important to discuss your individual situation with an experienced eye surgeon in order to determine which procedure is right for you.

How Does LASIK Work?

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a type of laser eye surgery that involves creating a flap in the cornea and then using an excimer laser to remove tissue underneath the flap. This procedure is typically used for patients with moderate to high myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness).

LASIK involves creating a flap in the cornea and then using an excimer laser to remove tissue underneath. This procedure is typically used for patients with moderate to high levels of myopia or hyperopia, as it can be more effective at correcting vision issues caused by irregularly shaped or thickened corneas.

Overall, LASIK is a safe and effective procedure for correcting vision problems related to irregularities in the shape or thickness of the cornea. It typically requires a shorter recovery time than PRK, and most patients experience improved vision within a few days after surgery. However, it is important to discuss your individual situation with an experienced eye surgeon in order to determine if this procedure is right for you.

How Does PRK Work?

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a type of laser eye surgery that uses an excimer laser to remove tissue from the surface of the cornea. This procedure is typically used for patients with mild to moderate myopia (nearsightedness).

With PRK, the top layer of the cornea is scraped to expose the treatment area, rather than creating a flap as in LASIK. The epithelial layer then grows back as the cornea heals after surgery. During PRK, the surgeon will use numbing drops to ensure that you experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. They will then apply an alcohol solution to your eye in order to clean and prepare it for treatment. The excimer laser will be used to precisely remove tissue from the surface of your cornea, which will help correct any vision problems caused by irregularities in its shape or thickness. Following treatment, your eye may feel slightly irritated or scratchy, but this should resolve within a few days as your eyes heal and adjust to their new shape.

Overall, PRK is a safe and effective procedure for correcting vision problems caused by irregularities in the shape or thickness of the cornea. It is typically used for patients with mild to moderate myopia, though it may also be suitable for those with other types of vision issues as well. However, it is important to discuss your individual situation with an experienced eye surgeon in order to determine if this procedure is right for you.

1. PRK vs LASIK Technique

Both procedures use numbing drops to numb the eye and lasers for correcting your cornea. PRK involves the complete removal of your cornea’s top layer, stitching it, and applying bandages to protect against infection.

This contrasts with LASIK, which involves the removal of a small flap from your Cornea epithelium and then putting it back in its original position at the end.

2. PRK vs LASIK Recovery Time

PRK typically has a longer recovery time than LASIK. This is because the surface layer of the cornea (the epithelium) must grow back after being removed during treatment. In most cases, the epithelium will fully regenerate within 3-5 days after surgery. However, it may take up to a week or longer for some patients to experience full vision improvement.

LASIK has a shorter recovery time than PRK and you will likely see an improvement in your vision more quickly. Most patients will experience significant vision improvement within a few days after surgery. The recovery time for a LASIK procedure is typically 4 days.

3. PRK vs LASIK Follow-up Appointments

When it comes to PRK vs LASIK follow-up appointments, the main difference is in how often you will need to visit your eye doctor.

PRK and LASIK both require a series of follow-up appointments in order to ensure proper healing and vision improvement.

With PRK surgery, you will need to schedule regular checkups with your eye doctor for the first few weeks after surgery. This is because the surface layer of your cornea needs time to heal and grow back. Depending on your recovery speed, this could take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

During these follow-up appointments, your doctor will monitor your progress and make sure that there are no complications or side effects from the surgery. They may also give you some tips on how to help ease any discomfort or irritation that you are experiencing as your eyes heal.

In comparison, LASIK surgery usually has a shorter recovery time, so you may not need to schedule as many regular follow-up appointments after your initial post-surgery visit.

However, it is still important to monitor your vision and go back to your eye doctor if you notice any changes or if you have any questions or concerns about the surgery.

4. PRK vs LASIK Affordability

PRK and LASIK are both effective methods of correcting vision, but they can vary in cost depending on a number of factors. In general, PRK tends to be more affordable than LASIK because it does not require the creation of a flap in the cornea. The cost of each procedure can also vary depending on the surgeon's experience, the location of the procedure, and the type of laser used.

5. PRK vs LASIK Safety

In general, PRK and LASIK are both safe and effective procedures for correcting vision issues caused by irregularities in the shape or thickness of the cornea. However, there are some risks associated with each type of procedure that should be discussed with your surgeon prior to surgery.

For any questions or concerns regarding which type of laser eye surgery in Vancouver is right for you, don’t hesitate to contact us.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF LASER EYE SURGERY?

Laser eye surgery is a safe and effective way to improve your vision. However, as with any surgery, there are some risks involved. It is important to choose a qualified surgeon and follow all post-operative instructions in order to minimize these risks.

1. Blurred or Double Vision

Some people may experience blurred or double vision after undergoing laser eye surgery, which can be caused by a number of different factors. This is typically temporary and should resolve with time, although in some cases it may persist and require further treatment.

2. Infection

Serious infections after laser eye surgery are very rare, but they can occur. Symptoms of an infection include redness, pain, light sensitivity, discharge, and blurred vision. This can occur if proper post-operative care is not followed, and it may require additional treatments or medications to resolve. If you experience any of these symptoms after your surgery, contact your doctor immediately so that the infection can be treated promptly.

3. Inflammation

Inflammation is another potential complication of laser eye surgery. This can cause redness, pain, and blurred vision in the days or weeks following the procedure. In most cases, this inflammation will resolve on its own with time. However, if it persists or worsens, you should contact your doctor.

4. Corneal Damage

The cornea is the clear outer layer of the eye, and it can be damaged during laser eye surgery. This damage can cause vision problems such as halos or glare. In most cases, these problems will resolve on their own within a few weeks or months. However, in some cases, corneal transplant surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.

5. Dry Eyes

Dry eyes are a common side effect of laser eye surgery, and can often be managed with the use of artificial tears or other medications. In some cases, however, the problem may persist and require further treatment.

6. Glare or Halos

Glare or Halos can occur after laser eye surgery. This is caused by the way that light passes through your eyes and onto your retina, which is often an unavoidable side effect of this procedure. These symptoms are usually temporary and will dissipate within a few weeks or months. However, in some rare cases, they may be permanent.

7. Keratoconus

This is a condition in which the cornea (the front part of the eye) becomes thin and cone-shaped. It can occur after any type of refractive surgery, including laser eye surgery.

8. Cataracts

Cataracts are a common age-related condition in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy. In rare cases, cataracts may develop after laser eye surgery.

9. Retinal Detachment

This is a serious condition in which the retina (the back part of the eye) becomes separated from the rest of the eye. It can occur after any type of refractive surgery, but is more likely to happen if you have had previous eye surgeries or if you have certain medical conditions such as diabetes.

10. Scattered Lamellar Keratitis

Also known as DLK or Sand of the Sahara syndrome, is a rare complication that can occur after laser eye surgery. This condition is characterized by the presence of fine grains of sand-like material in the front part of the eye and may be associated with inflammation and fibrin deposits in the interface tissues.

Although this condition is relatively uncommon and usually resolves on its own over time, it can be a serious complication that requires prompt medical attention.

11. Corneal Ectasia

Corneal ectasia is a rare complication that can occur after laser eye surgery. This is when the cornea begins to bulge or warp, which can cause vision problems. It is typically treated with glasses, contact lenses, or corneal transplants.

12. Bloodshot Eyes

One common side effect of laser eye surgery is bloodshot or red eyes. This is usually not a serious condition and will typically resolve on its own within a few days. However, if you experience severe pain or persistent bloodshot eyes, it is important to contact your doctor for advice.

If you experience any of these problems after your procedure, be sure to contact us right away so that proper treatment can be administered.

While there are risks associated with laser eye surgery, most people experience no problems and are very satisfied with the results of their procedure. With proper care and precautions, laser eye surgery is a safe and effective way to improve your vision.

If you are considering this type of surgery, we are happy to discuss the risks and benefits with you.

WHAT ARE THE LONG TERM AFFECTS OF LASER SURGERY?

The long-term outcomes for the vast majority of laser eye surgery patients are nothing short of spectacular. Many individuals have 20/20 or better eyesight as a result of surgery.

You should discuss your long-term prospects with your physician.

HOW LONG DOES LASER EYE SURGERY LAST

The actual surgery itself only takes a few minutes per eye. However, you will need to plan for an hour or two at the clinic on the day of your procedure, as you will need time before and after surgery for preparation and recovery.

DOES LASIK SURGERY HURT?

No, you should not feel any pain during your laser eye surgery procedure. You may feel some pressure on your eyes during the surgery, but this is typically well tolerated.

Most patients report that the procedure is relatively painless, and most feel comfortable during and after the procedure. However, you may experience some mild discomfort or irritation as your eyes heal in the days following the treatment.

!. Numbing Eye Drops

Eye drops will be applied immediately before your LASIK surgery to completely numb your eyes throughout the entire procedure.

2. Pressure

You will feel pressure in your eyes during the first steps of LASIK procedure, caused by the application of the microkeratome instrument and the laser, on the cornea. The sensation is usually not uncomfortable and lasts for less than one minute.

3. After Surgery

After LASIK surgery, the eye drops that anesthetized your eyes will diminish. When you return home, you may experience some light sensitivity and watery vision for a couple hours. If this bothers you, you can take over-the-counter pain medication to relieve the discomfort.

4. Pain Medication

In case of short-term eye discomfort, your LASIK eye surgeon may offer a prescription for discomfort medication when you leave the center.

However, most patients find that if they do experience any eye pain after LASIK, it is usually mild and resolves in a matter of hours.

5. In Case of Severe Pain

Call our office if you have severe eye pain following LASIK surgery.

Although some parts of the LASIK surgery can feel uncomfortable, most patients find it to be faster and more pleasant than expected.

If you have any concerns about pain or discomfort associated with your laser eye surgery, talk to your surgeon beforehand to learn more about what to expect.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE ME TO RECOVER FROM EYE SURGERY?

After laser eye surgery, the time it takes to recover varies based on a variety of elements, including the treatment you are undergoing and your individual vision requirements.

Generally speaking, most patients are able to resume regular activities within a day or two following their procedure, with little to no discomfort or side effects.

Your surgeon will provide specific instructions to help you manage any side effects or lingering symptoms as you heal.

If you have any questions about how long it will take to recover from laser eye surgery, be sure to speak with your surgeon for more guidance.

WHEN CAN I APPLY MAKEUP AFTER LASER EYE SURGERY?

The answer to this question will depend on a number of factors, including the type of laser eye surgery you have undergone and your individual healing process.

Some patients may be able to apply eye makeup within days of their procedure, while others may need additional time before they can resume this activity.

Ultimately, it is best to speak with your surgeon about your specific circumstances and recovery timeline so that you can make an informed decision about when you are ready to apply eye makeup again.

CAN I GET MY EYES WET AFTER MY EYE SURGERY?

After laser eye surgery, we recommend that you wait at least 24 hours before washing your face, particularly the area around your eyes, to avoid infection.

You can carefully remove any secretions from your lashes or the corner of your eye with a clean washcloth and plain tap water.

For at least a few days, avoid getting soap and water in your eyes when bathing or showering. While bathing, close your eyes and have a washcloth nearby to to remove any water that flows onto your eye area.

We also recommend that you avoid swimming and other water activities for at least one week after your LASIK eye surgery. After a week, you may return to swimming in a chlorinated pool, but only with goggles on to avoid any eye irritation or infection.

Any Additional Questions?

If you have any other questions about laser eye surgery, we encourage you to contact us today. We look forward to helping you see clearly and living life without glasses or contacts!

Achieve Better Vision with Laser Eye Surgery in Vancouver

No matter which type of laser eye surgery you require, we can help. We offer a range of services, including LASIK surgery, PRK surgery, and more. If you are looking for the best possible care and results, look no further than Vancouver Eye Laser Surgery.

Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.

Call Us Today!

604-337-6558

Achieve better vision through laser eye surgery in Vancouver today. Our competent team will be ready to work with you before, during, and after your eye surgery.

(Appointments only, no walk-ins, please.)