The iLASIK Procedure
Many patients at South Texas Eye Consultants are surprised to learn that iLASIK takes 15-20 minutes from start-to-finish. The procedure is performed in our office and you will be awake and fully aware of each step in the process. You can expect to feel virtually no pain during the procedure and you may even be able to see more clearly before you leave the surgical suite.
Adding Customized Treatment to iLASIK
At South Texas Eye Consultants we incorporate Custom iLASIK into every procedure so we can precisely tailor the procedure to each individual and treat certain corneal problems that earlier LASIK technologies could not.
Our doctors create a detailed 3-D map of your eyes in order to create a customized treatment plan so the cornea can be reshaped to your unique specifications. This allows our doctors to treat a wider range of higher-order aberrations, allowing for more patients to be good candidates for iLASIK.
4 Steps in iLASIK
- Our team will administer topical drops to numb your eyes. If you are feeling anxious, we can provide relaxation medication.
- After the eyes are prepped, your doctor will create a thin flap on your cornea using the IntraLase™ laser.
- The flap will be folded back to reveal the underlying corneal tissue. Your doctor will then use the VISX Star S4™ IRexcimer laser to reshape pre-determined portions of your cornea. This treatment is based on the earlier 3-D Wavefront analysis.
- The flap is then repositioned where it begins to heal almost immediately. You will wear a protective eye shield home.
iLASIK Recovery
You will return home after the procedure, where you should rest for the remainder of the day.After the anesthetic drops wear off, you may experience 6 to 12 hours of mild discomfort, scratchiness, watering, light sensitivity and a sensation of something in your eyes. Over-the-counter pain relievers will help alleviate discomfort. The procedure itself heals very quickly with any discomfort subsiding within 24-48 hours. Your first follow-up appointment will be the day after your procedure and most patients are able to drive themselves to this appointment.
iLASIK Results
Most patients are able to return to work a day or two after their procedure. Your vision will continue to improve over several months.
iLASIK Risks
Make sure you fully understand the potential risks of iLASIK, which can include:
- Need for glasses or contacts
- Dry eye syndrome
- Starbursts
- Halos
- Vision loss
- Possible retouching or enhancements
By choosing a doctor who has extensive iLASIK experience, uses advanced iLASIK technology and has a long list of satisfied patients the risks will be minimized. The doctors at South Texas Eye Consultants are ready to meet you and help you better understand iLASIK in Corpus Christi, TX. Contact us today to schedule your free iLASIK Consultation.