Frequently Asked Questions

AM I SUITABLE FOR LASIK OR LASER EYE SURGERY?

Generally, a suitable candidate is at least 20 years of age, has had stable vision for the last 12 months, is not pregnant, is free of certain diseases of the cornea and retina and is generally in good health.

If you are not suitable for LASIK, there are now many other excellent options available please discuss with our Doctors.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

For both eyes, the procedure takes abut 20-30 minutes but you will be at the centre for a few hours to ensure all pre and post-operative checks have been completed.  

DO I NEED TO TAKE TIME OFF WORK?

As most patients can expect 90% of visual recovery within 24 hours, you can return to work the day after your procedure. Minor visual fluctuations may occur during the first few weeks.

HOW SOON CAN I DRIVE?

For most people, you can resume driving the next day. We would recommend you do not drive for a day or two after surgery.

ARE THE PROCEDURES SAFE?

Over 10 million cases have been performed worldwide. In the hands of experienced surgeons and state of the art equipment, Lasik is considered to be safe with very few complications. The LASIK surgery procedure of creating the flap has been performed for 40 years. The excimer laser has been used on the cornea for over 20 years and there have been no long term effects documented.

IS LASER EYE SURGERY PERMANENT?

Once the cornea has been reshaped it tends to stay that way. There can be occurrence of regression, which can be corrected with an enhancement but the majority remain stable.

WILL LASER EYE SURGERY HURT?

You won't experience any pain during the procedure. You may experience a scratchy sensation or mild discomfort for the first four to six hours after the procedure.

IS THERE A RISK OF COMPLICATION?

As with all surgical or medical procedures there is a risk of complication. These are rare, and usually minor if they do occur. With Lasik these are rare and usually less 1%. However, treatment should not be done if you cannot accept the remote possibility of a complication that could compromise the vision in an eye.

CAN LASER EYE SURGERY GET RID OF MY READING GLASSES?

Yes. Monovision can give you independence from readers. The concept of monovision involves correcting one eye so that it is focused for reading. Monovision is subject to individual adaption and may not be suitable for everyone. Suitability for monovision can be discussed and even trialled at the time of your consultation. You may also be found suitable for multi focal lens technology; another option for reducing dependence on reading glasses.