Q: Will my activities be limited?
A: In the first few days following the treatment swimming and strenuous exercise should be avoided. Dr. Haight and colleagues at Manhattan Eye & Ear has shown that the laser does not weaken the strength of the eye. Therefore, usual sports activities may be resumed. Of course, some sports or occupational activities require the use of protective eye wear and these practices should continue after the laser procedure.

Q: Can I wear a contact lens in the eye not receiving treatment?
A: Yes. A contact lens may be worn during and after the time of treatment.

Q: When can I have my second eye treated?
A: It is now accepted practice to treat both eyes simultaneously. Studies have shown that the complication rate for each eye is no different when surgery is performed simultaneously or at different times. However, if the patient prefers, treatment may be spaced a week apart. By that time the vision in the first eye has cleared to a point where it may be relied upon for most normal activities including work and driving.

Q: Will I need reading glasses?
A: By the early 40's almost everybody needs extra help for close-up focusing. PRK will not correct this problem so you will need to use simple reading glasses. Individuals who experience an over correction from PRK will need reading glasses at an earlier age. Some nearsighted people in their 40's discover that they can read by simply removing their glasses. After PRK restores clearer distance vision, this will no longer be an option and reading glasses will be needed.

Q: How do the results compare to LASIK?
A: Long term studies have shown essentially no difference in the final visual outcome. The major difference occurs in the first 36-48 hours during which the return of vision with PRK is slower than for LASIK. A full consultation is required to determine which procedure is best for each person.

Q: How many post-op visits are needed?
A: Typically visits will be scheduled at one day, one - two weeks, six weeks, and three, six, and twelve months following the LASIK.

Q: If the vision is under corrected when can it be enhanced?
A: It is necessary to wait until the vision has stabilized; usually in about three months. The three to six month time period is optimal for lifting the flap and repeating the laser.

Q: What is presbyopia?
A: Presbyopia refers to the loss of ability to read or see at near which happens to most people in their forties. Normally the eye's natural lens (the crystalline lens) can change shape to focus light from differing distances much the same way the lens in a camera focuses. As we age the crystalline lens becomes larger and more rigid and eventually is set permanently for distance vision. This is presbyopia - not to be confused with hyperopia or farsightedness in which the overall length of the eye is too short to match the combined focusing power of the cornea and lens.

Q: Can LASIK correct presbyopia?
A: No. At this time LASIK is designed to correct the distance vision only. If you need reading glasses now you will still need them after the surgery. Also if you are over forty and presently remove your glasses to read or see fine detail up close you will loose that ability after the procedure. Some patients who are presbyopic will elect to leave one eye somewhat nearsighted so that they can see near and far simultaneously.