Frequently Asked Questions for LASIK

The LASIK method (also called Flap and Zap) is a major leap forward in refractive surgery. LASIK combines conventional surgery with laser surgery. The procedure began in 1989 and has since evolved into a safe and effective method to correct several eye conditions. To perform LASIK, the surgeon uses a special micro-keratome or intralase technique to create a flap on the front surface of the eye (cornea) that is then lifted back and preserved.

The Excimer laser rapidly reshapes the curve of the exposed corneal tissue, and then the flap is returned to cover the reshaped / remoulded tissue.

This flap acts as an 'own body band-aid' which re-adheres fully within a few minutes, without stitches. The eye is protected, the risk of infection is minimised and the natural healing process is accelerated by minimal intervention

Individuals consider the option of refractive surgery and LASIK for a variety of very personal reasons. While LASIK does not promise perfect vision, it does hold the promise of reducing one's dependence on contact lenses or glasses, which will allow many people to more freely pursue their hobbies, sports activities or career options.

Sports Enthusiasts - from weekend warrior to professional athlete, many wish to be reducing their need for contacts or glasses for safety or performance reasons.

Mothers of Young Children - many women express concern about the safety of their children if they should lose their glasses or contact lenses -- while playing in the surf or trying to escape a burning building, for example. LASIK may even reduce the anxiety produced by simple tasks, like finding one's way through the house at night.

Frequent Travellers - for those who spend a considerable amount of time on the road, being less dependent on glasses or contacts promises numerous advantages, from safety (ability to read evacuation signs) to convenience (less to pack).

Not everyone who wears corrective lenses would be suitable. To determine suitability you will need a thorough eye examination. At the Marsden Eye Laser Clinic we invite you to take advantage of our complimentary consultation where we will perform all relevant tests and discuss all the risks and benefits of the procedure. If at this stage you fulfil the criteria required, you will have the options of meeting with Dr Fitzsimons or Dr Lewis where a full general eye check up including the examination of the back of the eye (retina) to make sure that there are no contraindications. The consultation with the surgeons will costs $245 with some Medicare rebate if you have a referral from your GP or Optometrist.

The differences in prices are dependant on the technology and resources used. All major centres inSydneywould have the latest technology and are continually upgraded and serviced every 6 weeks. What differs is the amount of inclusive fee that the centre offers and whether there is any add on costs e.g. enhancements or high overhead costs such as advertising/marketing that the practice incur.

You may be required to spend about 1.5 hours at our day surgery although the laser procedure itself may only take 10minutes to perform. A relaxant tablet will be given prior to the procedure. Pre-operative administration and preparation takes about 20 minutes. After your Lasik procedure, you will be offered tea or coffee and rest for about 10-15 minutes. Your eyes will be checked under the microscope by the surgeon prior to discharge from day surgery.

The procedure is done under local anaesthetic in the form of an eye drop. With you being awake for the procedure is more controlled because your focus on the laser beam helps to centre and align your vision with the laser for better tracking and treatment outcome.

The eyes are completely numbed with local anaesthetic eye drops and will not experience any pain. However, you will still feel pressure sensation and touch especially the tension caused by the lid holder that keeps the eye open and prevent you from blinking. During the laser treatment (takes about 1-2 minutes) you will hear the laser impulses and the smell of the plume but there will be no pain.

Visual recovery is very quick, most people can see close to their best vision within 24 hours after surgery. Straight after surgery you will experience blurry vision (like somebody has smeared Vaseline on your glasses) but you should be able to see through the blur.

Recovery time is approximately 24 hours. Usually we recommend you take the day of your procedure and the following day off work and resume to normal by the 3rd day.

During the first consultation we will go through the full list of complications/risks and the benefits of surgery. If you have been selected as a suitable candidate for LASIK, the chances of success are usually 99% without any complications. Full detail of specific risks and side effects are better discussed at your consultation where results of tests will allow the doctor to fully inform you of such if any will apply to your treatment outcomes.

All reports suggest this treatment is permanent since it's beginning 30+ years ago. We cannot however, predict whether your eye would have naturally become more short/long sighted with time. The surgery will not halt the natural progression of the eye. We do assume that if you are over 21 years of age and have had a stable prescription for 12 months, that your eyes will not change and the treatment will therefore be permanent.

You can resume normal activities however, we do ask you to take care for the first 2 weeks and refrain from swimming, contact sports or rubbing the eyes.

The decision to have LASIK is an important decision and we at the Marsden Eye Laser Clinic believe it should be a fully informed one. For a full assessment and discussion about the procedure please contact our clinic on Phone: (02) 9635 6964 Mobile: 0417 635 400 or email us on [javascript protected email address]