The LaserVue surgeons specialize in LASIK and other forms of refractive surgery. We strive to provide the best technology and to maximize the visual outcome for our LASIK patients at the San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland East Bay, South Bay and Santa Rosa office locations.

The following are some common questions (with partial answers) that will help you more fully understand LASIK surgery. We strongly encourage you to ask questions about the LASIK procedure, about us, and alternate treatment options.

---

2. What is an excimer laser and how does it work?

---

3. What results can I expect from LASIK?

The goal of any refractive surgical procedure is to reduce or eliminate your dependence on corrective lenses – so that you may freely enjoy activities without the encumbrance of glasses or contacts. Our commitment to you is that we will not perform laser vision correction on you or anyone we feel does not have a good possibility of achieving independence from glasses and contacts. There are three main variables that will influence vision results: a thorough pre-operative evaluation to determine whether you are a good candidate for LASIK, the experience of your LASIK surgeon/team, and the equipment utilized. To ensure the best outcomes, it is critical that you select your surgical team wisely. Honest evaluation, surgical experience, and state-of-the-art technology are crucial to the end result.

Top | View LASIK Main Page | Request a FREE LASIK Consultation

---

4. What are the risks associated with LASIK?

As with any surgery, there are risks. Fortunately, however, the risks are low and the patient satisfaction rate is high. The informed consent will outline the risks more thoroughly before you decide to have the procedure. Potential risks may include the following:

• Halos - Some patients will notice glare, halos or starburst around objects in low-light conditions. For the vast majority, these symptoms are temporary. However, others will continue to experience them for several months or longer. During your pre-operative evaluation, we will determine whether or not you are at high risk for seeing long-term halos.
• Dry eyes - There is increased dryness of the eyes typically for several months following LASIK, though some patients may experience dryness for a longer period of time. It is important to use lubricating drops frequently. If the eyes remain dry for prolonged period, there are other drops or techniques that can help. Again, your pre-operative evaluation will help determine whether or not you are a candidate for experiencing dry eyes

---

5. Is LASIK surgery right for me?

The best way to determine if you are a candidate for LASIK is by an individual evaluation by our doctors. At that time, we will verify whether you are a good candidate for LASIK and answer any questions you may have. We will encourage you to understand the procedure, the risks and benefits, and to harbor realistic expectations.

In general, a good LASIK candidate is at least 18 years old, has healthy corneas, and has maintained a stable eye prescription for the last 12 months. People with certain medical conditions or women who are pregnant or nursing may not be good candidates.

---

6. How important is the choice of surgeon?

In laser vision correction, complications rarely occur. But, when they do, they are usually related to the surgeon's experience and technique. Complications appear to be greatly reduced by the surgeon's experience, training, and meticulous attention to detail. Error rates that are less than one percent with a skilled LASIK surgeon can rise rapidly in less experienced hands. LaserVue surgeons have helped train many LASIK surgeons and co-managing doctors through proctoring, lectures and seminars. Additionally, LaserVue surgeons have designed several innovative LASIK instruments and a popular LASIK surgical nomogram. Because of our vast experience, hundreds of doctors, surgeons and other health care workers have trusted their eyes to Drs. Bansal and Singh. We routinely are asked to provide second opinions for LASIK complications experienced by patients from other providers. Both Dr. Bansal and Dr. Singh have performed many thousands of LASIK procedures.

7. Isn't all laser vision correction the same?

---

8. Can I have both eyes done at once?

---

9. Is LASIK painful?

---

10. Will my eyes look different after LASIK?

---

11. Will I need reading glasses?

---

12. What is monovision?

13. Will my vision remain stable long after the procedure?

---

14. Do I need to have my contacts out prior to my initial exam?

Yes. We recommend that you discontinue soft contact lens wear at least 3 days before your initial exam. For soft toric and gas permeable/rigid contact lenses, we recommend that you discontinue wear for a minimum of 3 weeks prior to your initial exam. However, prior to your procedure, we recommend you discontinue soft lens wear 1-2 weeks and a minimum of 3-4 weeks for soft toric/gas permeable lenses.

Top | View LASIK Main Page | Request a FREE LASIK Consultation

---

15. How much should I pay for laser vision correction?

The cost of vision correction varies among practices, based on surgeon experience, technology, and what the center includes in the fee. We are not the least expensive provider. We have invested heavily in staff training and technology. Our advanced laser and diagnostic technology are second to none. This investment is extremely important to surgical results and our patients tell us they can see the difference. We encourage you to visit other laser centers and compare.

It's only natural to want to get the best price, but remember, quality, personal service, attention to detail and results are extremely important when it comes to your eyes. Your vision is one of your most important assets.

Top | View LASIK Main Page | Request a FREE LASIK Consultation

---

16. Will my insurance cover LASIK surgery?

LASIK is an elective procedure, which means that the surgery is optional. As a result, only a few insurance companies pay for all or part of vision correction procedures - you can check with your plan administrator, or we will be happy to make a copy of your insurance card and check coverage for you. In some cases, the fees can be covered by medical flex/cafeteria plans that allow pretax dollars to be set aside - please ask your employer if they offer this type of benefit. Vision correction also may be tax deductible as a medical expense (check with your financial advisor).

If you do not have insurance coverage, we do offer affordable payment plans. It is easy to apply online and receive credit approval before you schedule an appointment.

Top | View LASIK Main Page | Request a FREE LASIK Consultation

---

17. Should I be nervous about the procedure?

Eyes and vision are very precious. It is perfectly natural to be nervous about having the procedure. Much of this comes from fear of the unknown. Drs. Bansal and Singh and their staff spend a great deal of time describing exactly what's involved in the procedure and what sounds and sights you will experience. We will "walk you through the process" to make you as comfortable as possible.

It's always wise not to rush into something you know very little about, especially when it comes to something as precious as your vision. We encourage you to bring friends or family members with you to your laser vision evaluation so that we can educate them, as well as you, and answer any questions they might have. It may be comforting to know that LaserVue surgeons televise on closed-circuit monitors your surgical procedure for your loved one to view “live”. We are very proud of our surgical techniques and protocol.

Top | View LASIK Main Page | Request a FREE LASIK Consultation

---

18. What's the next step?