LASIK FAQ

What is LASIK?
During LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis) at McDonald Eye Associates, The Z-LASIK FEMTO LDV femtosecond laser allows a blade-free flap creation by using short pulses of light to gently separate the layers of the cornea, creating an ultra-thin flap and smooth surface underneath. In conventional LASIK, a blade is used to make the flap. At McDonald Eye Associates we offer the Z-LASIK procedure, which is performed with the femtosecond laser FEMTO LDV. The Technolas® laser is then used to reshape the cornea. This laser is extremely accurate and can remove a quarter of a micron of tissue at a time (A human hair is approximately 50 microns thick). After the laser is used, the flap is folded back into position and reseals itself; no sutures are needed. The procedure itself takes about 20 minutes.

Is laser vision correction covered by my insurance?
Most insurance companies consider laser vision correction elective in nature and do not cover the procedure, but we recommend you check with your individual insurance company. In comparison, consider the repeated costs of purchasing new eyeglass frames and lenses and disposable contacts year after year! Located in Fayetteville and Rogers, Arkansas, McDonald Eye Associates accepts cash, MasterCard, Visa and has attractive financing plans available.

Am I eligible for laser vision correction?
This depends on your age, your prescription and the general health of your eyes. Your prescription must have been stable for the past 12 months. We suggest you be 21 years of age or older. Although most laser vision correction patients are under 60, even seniors may be eligible. Some nearsighted patients whose prescriptions are too strong to be eligible for LASIK, may benefit from implantable contact lenses.

Do I need an examination first?
Prior to treatment, you will have a laser vision consultation and a thorough eye exam with an experienced McDonald Eye Associates eye care professional. A detailed computer image is taken of your eye that will detail the curvature, shape, overall smoothness and regularity of the cornea.

What are the side effects?
As with any treatment or surgery there are risks, even though they are rare. Pain is uncommon. You may experience halos, glare, light sensitivity, blurred vision, double vision, difficulty with night vision and/or a foreign body sensation. Other risks include infection, over responding, under responding, irregular astigmatism, epithelial ingrowth, corneal abrasion, reduction of best corrected vision, dry eyes or induced astigmatism.

What is an enhancement?
An enhancement is a repeat of the surgical procedure, which is occasionally done when the eye has under-responded. The necessity for an enhancement procedure is determined when the patient’s post-operative vision has stabilized. The length of time necessary for vision to stabilize depends upon the procedure and the patient’s individual healing time.

Does laser vision correction really work?
Yes. Laser vision correction is being done all around the world. Over 90 percent of people who have had one of these procedures obtain normal vision, and many others are happy to lessen their dependence on glasses and contact lenses.

Are there any restrictions after the procedure?
We encourage you to keep both eyes closed as much as possible for the first four hours after surgery.

Swimming, hot tubs, sauna or Jacuzzi are prohibited for two weeks. No makeup for 48 hours and no eye makeup for four days. When your vision clears, you may drive. Patients may return to work in one or two days.

laser vision correction prohibit me from having future eye surgery?
Refractive surgery will not interfere with any future eye surgery you may need, such as cataract or glaucoma surgery.

Does the surgery hurt?
No, the actual procedure does not hurt. Anesthetic drops are administered before the surgery begins. Some patients may experience discomfort during the first 12 to 36 hours after the procedure. Some patients describe the feeling as a lash in the eye or something under a contact lens. Medications are available if you are concerned about this possibility. An oral sedative is given 30 minutes prior to the procedure to help you relax.

What’s next?
Your next step is to learn about your laser vision correction needs. Please call 479-249-6003 between 8am and 4pm Monday-Friday to schedule your free LASIK consultation with McDonald Eye Associates. We are committed to helping you make an informed decision.