Most patients have many questions when it comes to their eye care needs, including the procedures we offer and the conditions we treat — from retina concerns to glaucoma, cataracts, inflammatory diseases, cornea disorders and more.
Below you’ll find some of our patients’ frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions about your eye health.
General
(Clinic, Financing, Process)
A: We’ll complete a series of advanced scans to assess your eye health and determine your eligibility for procedures like LASIK, RLE, or ICL. A member of our team will walk you through your options, answer your questions, and explain pricing and financing. There’s no pressure to commit — just clear information to help you decide what’s right for you.
A: Yes. We offer flexible financing through Fairstone, which provides medical loans starting at $500 to help make procedures like LASIK, RLE, ICL, and LipiFlow® more accessible. We’ll work with you to find a plan that fits your budget.
A: Yes. Your vision may be blurry or hazy right after the procedure, so you’ll need someone to drive you home. Most patients are able to resume driving the next day.
A: We’ll take detailed measurements of your eyes, review your health history, and confirm your treatment plan. This appointment also gives you a chance to ask any final questions before your procedure day.
A: Most patients return to work within one to two days, depending on the procedure and your specific healing process. We’ll provide personalized guidance based on your treatment and lifestyle.
LASIK
A: You may feel slight pressure throughout the procedure, but it shouldn’t be painful. Numbing drops are used to keep you comfortable.
A: Most people notice improved vision within 24 hours. Mild dryness, light sensitivity, or haziness are common in the first few days and typically improve quickly.
A: The procedure itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes for both eyes, but expect to be in the clinic for around 90 minutes in total.
A: As with any medical procedure, LASIK carries some risks. These may include dry eyes, glare or halos at night, or temporary visual fluctuations. Serious complications are rare, and we’ll review all potential risks with you beforehand.
A: You can usually resume light activity within a day or two. Most patients can fly after 24 hours, return to exercise within a few days, and wear eye makeup again after about one week.
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
A: RLE and cataract surgery use nearly the same surgical technique. Both involve removing your eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The key difference is the reason for surgery. RLE is elective and performed to reduce dependence on glasses or contacts, even when the lens is clear. Cataract surgery is done when the natural lens becomes cloudy and affects vision.
A: RLE replaces the eye’s natural lens with an artificial one. LASIK, on the other hand, reshapes the cornea using a laser. RLE is often recommended for patients with presbyopia or early cataracts, especially if they are not ideal candidates for LASIK.
A: Yes. With the right lens choice, RLE can correct both near and distance vision. Options like multifocal, accommodating, or extended-depth lenses are designed to reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses.
A: In many cases, yes. RLE can be performed after LASIK, but it requires a detailed evaluation. The surgeon will need to account for previous corneal changes to ensure a safe and accurate outcome.
A: RLE is generally safe and has excellent long-term outcomes when performed by an experienced surgeon. Rare risks may include posterior capsule opacification, which is treatable. The risks will be discussed in detail during your consultation.
Implantable Collamer
Lens (ICL)
A: ICL involves placing a biocompatible lens between your iris and natural lens, without altering the cornea. LASIK and PRK reshape the cornea using lasers. ICL is often a safer option for patients with thin corneas or high prescriptions, and it’s reversible if needed.
A: You can expect most normal activities to resume within a day or two. Vision begins improving quickly, with full clarity typically achieved within a week. Some discomfort or vision fluctuation may occur early, but these generally resolve within days.
A: ICL lenses are designed to remain functional indefinitely, which is essentially “lasting a lifetime.” However, the procedure is reversible, allowing lens removal or replacement if needed later.
A: No. The ICL is made of soft, flexible material and sits naturally behind the iris. After healing, most patients report not feeling it at all.
A: If your prescription changes significantly, the ICL can be removed or replaced. Alternatively, other options like glasses, contact lenses, or even laser procedures may be discussed.
LipiFlow
A: LipiFlow is an FDA-cleared, in‑office treatment for dry eye caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). It uses gentle heat and pulsating pressure to unblock the oil glands in your eyelids, helping restore a healthy tear film and reduce evaporation-related dryness.
A: By clearing blockages in the Meibomian glands, LipiFlow restores the natural oil layer of your tears. This improves tear stability and reduces irritation, addressing the root cause of evaporative dry eye rather than just treating symptoms.
A: The treatment takes approximately 12 minutes per eye, making it one of the most efficient clinical dry eye solutions available. Many patients find it feels more like a warm massage than a procedure.
A: The treatment takes approximately 12 minutes per eye, making it one of the most efficient clinical dry eye solutions available. Many patients find it feels more like a warm massage than a procedure.
A: Results typically last from 6 to 12 months, with many patients experiencing relief for up to a year. In some cases, results may extend to two years, depending on individual gland health and aftercare routine. Periodic maintenance treatments help sustain comfort and tear quality.
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for?
We’re committed to your health and wellbeing and we want to make you feel as comfortable as possible. That means empowering you with the knowledge and information you need.
Reach out today and we’d be happy to chat.
