Laser Vision Correction at NEI
NEI Serves Patients Throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Hazelton and Surrounding Areas in Lackawanna, Luzerne and Other Counties
Dr. Thomas S. Boland
What is laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction is an outpatient procedure that uses a cool beam of light to gently reshape the surface of the eye, thereby correcting or greatly improving vision.
What are the overall benefits of laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction allows nearsighted, farsighted, and astigmatic people to end or greatly reduce their dependence on eye glasses and contact lenses.
What is LASIK?
LASIK, which stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is a procedure that creates a flap on the cornea and treats the inner tissue of the eye with a laser beam to correct your vision.
What is Custom Vision Correction?
Custom Vision Correction uses a treatment pattern that is highly customized to the imperfections and contours of your own cornea. As a result, it gives you a better chance than ever before to obtain 20/20 vision or even better. Custom Vision Correction was approved by the FDA in mid-2003.
Is the treatment permanent?
The technology for the correction of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism is designed to be permanent. In a very small number of cases, there may be recurrence. This can be corrected through an enhancement procedure which is included in the price for a limited time following your procedure.
What can go wrong?
The incidence of complications and side effects is rare. However, as is the case with any clinical procedure, results cannot be guaranteed. A very small number of patients may still need corrective lenses after the procedure.
What are the risks?
There are risks associated with any clinical procedure. However, because the laser uses a cool beam of light that is computer controlled, the results are accurate and predictable. In a recent study, all patients experienced better uncorrected vision following laser vision correction.
Is the procedure safe?
Yes. Nearly five million people worldwide have successfully undergone laser vision correction with excellent results. The U.S. FDA has recognized laser vision correction for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, and found the treatment safe and effective for eligible patients.
Does it hurt?
The procedure itself is painless. Patients may experience a slight pressure sensation during the procedure. Some patients may experience discomfort for a day or two thereafter.
Can I obtain 20/20 vision?
Over 98 percent of our patients at Northeastern Eye Institute obtain 20/40 vision or better, the minimum required for a driver's license. With Custom Vision Correction, FDA data indicates that 98% of patients obtained 20/20 vision or better and 70% obtained even better than 20/20 vision, whereas 100% of participants had vision good enough to pass a driving test.
What can I expect before a vision correction procedure?
An optometrist or ophthalmologist will conduct a comprehensive eye exam to determine your candidacy. Other diagnostic tests including corneal topography would also be conducted to ensure good results.
What can I expect on the day of the procedure?
The actual laser treatment takes less than one minute and the entire procedure for both eyes may last 15 to 20 minutes. Your visit should be complete in about an hour.
What happens during the procedure?
You will relax in a reclining chair and anesthetic drops will be placed in your eye. Then, your eye doctor will position your head under the laser and a retainer will be placed to hold your eyelids open during treatment. The laser procedure will last about a minute once the flap has been created. Following the procedure, you will rest in a chair for a few minutes and the doctor will examine you prior to your going home.
Do I need to take time off from work?
Patients generally return to work within one to three days following the procedure.
How do I know if I am a candidate for laser vision correction?
Nearsighted, farsighted, and astigmatic people over the age of 20 with a stable prescription, among other criteria, generally qualify for LASIK or custom vision correction. A certified eye doctor can examine your eyes to determine your eligibility.
How much does it cost?
The Laser Center at Northeastern Eye Institute offers a two-tiered pricing program starting as low as $1475 per eye. You can finance the procedure for low monthly payments through third party plans. Zero interest plans are available as well. When you schedule your consultation, ask for financing information. You can choose from a variety of plans including a six- and twelve-month zero interest plan.
What's the next step?
You may either attend a FREE seminar, or make an appointment for a one-on-one consultation with an eye specialist at Northeastern Eye Institute. Call toll-free 1-877-NEI-VISION or (570) 340-8000 or contact NEI by email for more information or to schedule a consultation.
Contact Northeastern Eye Institute today for more information about laser vision correction or to schedule a consultation. Call toll-free 1-877-NEI-VISION or (570) 340-8000
