Making It Safe and Affordable
LASIK surgery is only one of many available options for reducing or eliminating your dependence on glasses or contacts. Other popular options include LASEK, PRK, IntraLASIK, bladeless LASIK, non-cutting laser procedure, and flap-less LASIK. LASIK involves the formation of a flap, created with a fine automated instrument or with a laser (as in bladeless LASIK).Some surgeons believe that bladeless LASIK surgery may be safer since the flap itself is being cut with a laser. Others believe that it would be much safer to do away with the flap altogether (non-cutting or flap-less procedure). At the 5th Avenue Eye Center, we believe that there is no one procedure that is best for all people. Rather, each vision correction procedure needs to be chosen on a case-by-case basis. The specific success of each of these procedures dependends largely on the suitability of the specific procedure to your individual eyes.
Vision correction candidates should be aware that there exists a newer option that does away with the laser altogether. It is called Implantable Contact Lens, or ICL. Since this procedure does not use a laser to reshape the cornea, this procedure is completely reversible, in case you are not happy with the results for any reason. Unfortunately, many "commercial" LASIK centers have lost sight of the patient's interests in their pursuit of financial gains. What's worse, they have lost the surgical skills to perform the right procedure for the right patient. This is how LASIK became perceived as the "right procedure" for everyone and anyone. So, before you commit to a procedure, get a second opinion, and stay away from the commercial "assembly line LASIK". Remember, if you go to a shoe store, you can only buy shoes there. Make sure that your surgeon is fellowship trained in corneal procedures and can do more than just LASIK and PRK.
The 5th Avenue Eye Center is committed to working with you to find a financial solution that meets your needs. Usually, health insurance covers at least part of the surgery. Low interest payment plans could be arranged and you can use your flexible spending plan for LASIK surgery or cataract surgery. You'll find that, over time, you will spend less on LASIK than you do on wearing glasses and contacts.