Our Services
LASIK & PRK

What is
LASIK?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in-situ Keratomileusis) is the most popular and effective type of laser vision correction. The first laser vision correction surgery took place in 1988 and was approved in the US in 1999. Laser eye surgery technology continues to make advances in the LASIK procedure.

Today, topography-guided CONTOURA LASIK uses advanced mapping technology to create a highly personalized map of your cornea and its unique features to create an individual profile and treatment plan. This technology utilizes 4 or more images that capture 88,000 data points that measure and map your individual eye shape and surface of your cornea for optimized results.

CONTOURA Vision uses more data points from the individual surface shape of a patient’s eye than any other LASIK technology to create a personalized, accurate profile of each eye. CONTOURA measures an ultra-high resolution of your cornea that detects any abnormalities or changes in the shape to understand your specific vision correction needs.

LASIK vs PRK

LASIK and PRK are two forms of elective refractive surgery designed to reduce someone’s dependency on glasses or contact lenses.

LASIK Procedures

A LASIK procedure is performed by creating a very thin flap of corneal tissue. This is done on the outermost surface of the cornea. This flap, which is hinged remaining attached to the superior portion of your cornea, is then lifted to expose the central part of the cornea. This exposed area, then is treated with a second laser to reshape it according to your refractive error. After that laser treatment is completed, which usually takes less than 30 seconds, the flap is repositioned, and your procedure is done.

PRK Procedures

PRK is different in that the 5-6 cell surface layer called epithelium, a tissue which regenerates itself, is removed by the surgeon rather than creating a flap. This allows less corneal tissue to be devoted to the flap that is created in LASIK. The cornea is then reshaped with the same laser used in LASIK, programmed to the individual’s refractive error. Since there is no flap to reposition, a type of contact lens called a bandage lens, is placed over the treatment area to protect it during the period of epithelium regrowth, 4-6 days as a rule. It will usually be removed by your doctor.

LASIK Process

The first step is to schedule your FREE consultation with our experienced Eau Claire LASIK staff and doctors. This consultation takes approximately one hour, and is an easy, pain-free series of diagnostic tests that will be used to determine your candidacy for LASIK. Depending on your scans and eye examination, your individual LASIK treatment plan is recommended to you by our medical team to reach the optimal outcome for you.

Discover the possibilities for your future vision with Contoura®.

Watch the short videos below to see firsthand results and learn about what's possible for your vision.

Day of Procedure

Meet with the staff and doctor to review the procedure, post operative care and answer any additional questions you may have. You have the option of receiving a mild oral sedative while you relax prior to your procedure.

Numbing Drops

Anesthetic drops are administered, which prevents discomfort during your procedure.

Corneal Flap

Access to your cornea is gained by creating a flap in your corneal tissue with a laser. (Or, in the case of PRK, the epithelium layer is removed by the surgeon.)

Laser Time

Using the industry’s most advanced technology, the laser energy from the excimer laser precisely reshapes your cornea. Actual laser time is usually less than 20 seconds per eye.

Dr. Hofer walks you through the procedure step by step.

The thin layer of corneal flap tissue is returned, acting as a natural bandage that helps your eye heal.

Healing - Initial Recovery

Most LASIK patients notice improved vision shortly after the procedure, however, initially it is like you are looking through water as if you were swimming.

Patients may feel irritation, or may tear, for the first few hours. It is best to rest with eyes closed after the procedure for the first 4 hours. Most patients are quite comfortable after a rest period. Your eyes will be covered by plastic shields for the initial rest period and for one week while you sleep. Always keep eyes clean and refrain from rubbing them.

At your first visit 1-2 days after LASIK, your doctor will check your visual acuity and assess the recovery and healing of your eyes. At this visit, many patients are already seeing 20/20. It is not uncommon, however, for your vision to fluctuate up to 6-8 weeks before stabilizing. It may take up to 4-6 months for your vision to stabilize completely.

Patients are usually able to drive to this post-operative appointment and are able to return to work and resume most normal activities after this first checkup.

Follow-up appointments are recommended at one week and one month. Regular annual eye exams should be continued as usual thereafter.

State Of The Art
Equipment

Eau Claire LASIK utilizes a dedicated Alcon Wavelight Refractive Technology Suite, the only one of its kind in the area. This is the newest technology available in the industry today.

FAQ's

Can anyone have LASIK?

Not everyone can have LASIK. A thorough assessment through an eye examination and diagnostic testing is used to determine proper candidates for the procedure.

Does the procedure hurt?

The procedure is not painful. There is pressure that is felt during a portion of the procedure, but no pain.

Will I ever need glasses?

Rarely glasses may need to be used, either due to residual refractive error or regression. Reading glasses are to be expected with age, as LASIK does not prevent the need for that.

Is age a barrier to LASIK?

A typical LASIK patient is between the ages of 20-60, however there are often exceptions on both ends of this age range.

Limitations after LASIK surgery?

Most patients resume normal activities, including driving, employment and recreational activities, within 24-48 hours.

Is LASIK permanent?

Refractive surgery is considered permanent. However, in about 1% of patients, in time, an enhancement may be needed to correct residual refractive error or regression.

Recovery time after PRK?

PRK is a longer recovery time than LASIK, as the surface tissue (Epithelium) regrows over 4-5 days. A special contact lense (known as a bandage contact) is worn for that healing period and then removed by your doctor. Vision returns more slowly, but after a few days, driving vision is usually achieved and at about two weeks, vision is nearing the goal. PRK has the same visual potential as LASIK. CONTOURA can also be performed in PRK patients.

What eye conditions can LASIK treat?

Myopia, astigmatism and hyperopia, all to varying degrees, can be treated with LASIK. The amount that can be treated depends on your exam, corneal thickness and topography..

Do I get a discount if I wear crazy socks?

Although encouraged (staff/doctors participate in this craze), the only benefit to wearing crazy socks is that you will see them clearly without glasses or contacts!

© 2024 Eau Claire LASIK