The cornea is a part of the eye that helps focus light to create an image on the retina. It works in much the same way that the lens of a camera focuses light to create an image on film. The bending and focusing of light is also known as refraction. Usually the shape of the cornea and the eye are not perfect and the image on the retina is out-of-focus (blurred) or distorted. These imperfections in the focusing power of the eye are called refractive errors. There are three primary types of refractive errors: myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Persons with myopia, or nearsightedness, have more difficulty seeing distant objects as clearly as near objects. Persons with hyperopia, or farsightedness, have more difficulty seeing near objects as clearly as distant objects. Astigmatism is a distortion of the image on the retina caused by irregularities in the cornea or lens of the eye. Combinations of myopia and astigmatism or hyperopia and astigmatism are common. Glasses or contact lenses are designed to compensate for the eye's imperfections. Surgical procedures aimed at improving the focusing power of the eye are called refractive surgery. In LASIK surgery, precise and controlled removal of corneal tissue by a special laser reshapes the cornea changing its focusing power.

The LASIK procedure you will receive from Dr. Gerstein consists of 2 steps: 1)IntraLase- when the doctor uses the femtosecond laser to create the corneal flap, and 2)Allegretto Wave Eye Q- the fastest Excimer laser available today to reshape the cornea with custom Wavefront Optimized™ treatment and Perfect Pulse Technology® which ensures safety and precision with a high speed eye tracker.

No. Your insurance will not cover the procedure. However, some insurance plans will offer a discount for Lasik. You should bring your insurance card with you when you come in for your consultation. We will be happy to get this information with you.

Dr. Gerstein will be there with you at every step of the procedure. He will conduct all of your visits before and after the procedure. If you have been recommended by a referring doctor, that doctor may co-manage your surgery and see you for your follow-up visits. However, you may always see Dr. Gerstein if you have any questions or concerns.

The surgery is quick but the healing and fluctuations may continue for weeks or months. Refractive surgery is more of a process than a 20-Minute Miracle all though most will have great vision immediately after surgery. Post-operative LASIK instructions.

The cost of vision correction varies by surgeon. We have invested in advanced laser technology and our diagnostic technology is state-of-the-art. 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 the best price, but remember; quality and service are extremely important when it comes to medical care. With laser vision correction, safety, outcomes, and patient satisfaction should be the driving force behind your choice, not cost. We do not sacrifice safety to save you money. The best way to find out exactly what your price will be is to come in for a consultation. After a comprehensive evaluation to determine what procedures you're a candidate for, we'll give you a specific price for the procedure you choose. Included in the procedure are all pre-operative testing and post-operative care. There are no additional charges for patients with high corrections or astigmatism and we do not charge extra for premium technology. Unlike other laser centers, all patients are offered the most advanced wavefront optimized technology including IntraLase.

The high-speed eye-tracker follows the eye’s fastest movements, checking the eye’s position 400 times per second while ensuring an accurate placement of each laser pulse on the cornea. An integrated crossline projector provides Dr. Gerstein an exact alignment of the eye’s position.

Pregnancy can affect your vision. It is recommended that you wait at least 6 weeks after delivery, before scheduling your Lasik procedure.

The chance of experiencing a vision reducing complication is less than 1%.The most common problem associated with laser vision correction is undercorrection or overcorrection. Fortunately these problems are usually not visually significant and can be treated. In a small percentage of patients, an enhancement may be required. Most side effects are temporary.

The procedure takes under a minute for the IntraLase portion of the procedure and the laser treatment takes approximately 10 seconds per eye. Pre-operative LASIK instructions.

The majority of our patients return to work and resume most activities the next day. Pre-operative LASIK instructions.

The procedure itself is painless. You will be administered topical anesthesia at the time of the procedure. Some patients may experience mild discomfort 1-3 days after the procedure. Artificial tears drops usually help relieve this discomfort.

Your eyes are not drier after surgery, but there is a decrease in tear efficiency. The cornea surface is flatter and the eyelid must conform to the new shape during the first 3-6 months. The cornea is desensitized due to contact lens wear and the laser also desensitizes the cornea. This causes your blink reflex to decrease. Patients need to use artificial tears after surgery to alleviate this complaint.

Absolutely! Unfortunately, Lasik is not right for everyone. Dr. Gerstein will discuss your options and recommend the best refractive procedure to fit your needs at your no cost evaluation. Read about Intraocular Contact Lenses.

The best way to determine if you are a candidate is to schedule a free Lasik evaluation. At your appointment, we will conduct all the testing necessary to determine if Lasik is right for you. You will meet with Dr. Gerstein to discuss your options, and your individual needs. You can schedule your no-cost consultation by calling our office at 773-973-3223.