When you receive LASIK treatment at the Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado, you have access to cutting-edge technology and highly-rated doctors. Our Longmont office uses OptiLASIK™ Laser Vision Correction, which customizes advanced surgical technologies for your eyes’ special traits.
What is LASIK?
Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is a surgical procedure that changes the shape of your cornea to correct refractive errors. Refractive errors occur when the cornea is not perfectly shaped, so light does not properly focus on the retina (the back of the eye). If you have a refractive error, you may have one or a combination of these vision conditions:
- Myopia (nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Astigmatism (blurry vision at all distances)
LASIK restores your eyes’ focusing power, often eliminating the need for glasses and/or contact lenses.
Will LASIK Work for Me?
To qualify for this procedure, there are three criteria you have to meet:
- You are at least 21 years old
- Your vision prescription hasn’t changed for the last year
- You are in good health with no eye disease
If you meet these three requirements, schedule an appointment for a LASIK Consultation. That way we can do an eye exam to confirm your eligibility while we answer all of your questions. We have some FAQs listed here as well if you want more detailed information about LASIK procedures.
Custom LASIK Procedure
In the past, LASIK procedures reshaped your eyes based on your glasses or contact lens prescription. As a result, everyone received the same basic treatment. However, OptiLASIK™ Laser Vision Correction allows us to use advanced diagnostic technology with the Allegretto Wave® Eye-Q Laser to create a “map” of your eyes. This “map” is your own customized vision profile because it captures your eyes’ one-of-a-kind characteristics. We use this “map” to personalize your procedure and get the best results.
Does LASIK Hurt?
LASIK is a procedure with minimal to no discomfort. Your eye will be numbed with eye drops, and you will be awake and aware during the entire procedure. Some patients describe slight discomfort (like having something in your eye) during the initial healing period of two to three days after the procedure.
LASIK Results
No doctor can guarantee 20/20 vision after LASIK. Most patients reduce or eliminate their dependency on glasses or contact lenses. It’s important to note that this procedure doesn’t eliminate the need for reading glasses as people age (called presbyopia). However, there are other techniques that can correct presbyopia, such as Active Lifestyle Lenses and monovision techniques.
Ready for a Consultation?
Schedule a free consultation to answer any questions you have and determine if your eyes are right for LASIK, or one of the other refractive surgery procedures we offer. Though we have several offices, we do these consultations at our Longmont location.