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Lasik Information

Who performs LASIK at the Delaware Eye Institute?: Dr. John Wahl is our board certified ophthalmologist specializing in LASIK refractive surgery. He has performed over seven thousand refractive surgical procedures over the past 20 years and is the most experienced surgeon in Delaware for LASIK for nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.

What is LASIK?: LASIK stands for LASER IN-SITU KERATOMILEUSIS. It is capable of correcting a wide range of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. The procedure uses a computer controlled excimer laser to reshape the cornea to correct your vision. The laser reshaping is done under a protective flap of tissue to promote a very rapid recovery of vision and minimize discomfort. Delaware Eye Institute uses the latest AMO wavefront technology.
For whom is LASIK useful?: LASIK can be performed for almost the full range of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
How many LASIK procedures has Dr. Wahl performed?: More than 6,000 in the last 13 years.
How do I know if I am a good candidate for LASIK?: In order to determine if you are eligible for laser vision correction, you must have a LASIK evaluation. Please contact us if you have questions or wish to schedule an appointment by calling (302) 645-2300.
What takes place during a LASIK evaluation?: A complete eye examination and specialized computer measurement of the shape and thickness of your cornea is performed. Dr. Wahl reviews this information in light of your visual needs for work and leisure and provides you with options and recommendations for refractive surgery. Please wear eyeglasses instead of your contact lenses to your evaluation.
Can I get a new prescription for glasses?: During your evaluation, Dr. Wahl will provide you with an up-to-date prescription for glasses.
How long does the procedure take?: About five minutes per eye.
Does it hurt?: Anesthetic drops allow the procedure to be performed without pain. Afterwards, the eye is a bit scratchy and red, but patients typically do not require any pain medications and are usually able to drive themselves to work the next day.
What are the restrictions following surgery?: You must wear a protective shield the first two nights following surgery. You should not swim for one week after surgery, although bathing and showering is fine. All other activities--including exercise--may be resumed on the first day following surgery. You are urged not to rub your eyes for a week after surgery.
Can the procedure be performed on both eyes at once?: Yes, most patients prefer to have surgery done on both eyes in the same session.
How long is follow-up needed?: Post-operative checks are routinely performed immediately following surgery, at one week, and 2 months. These examinations are included in the fee for the procedure.
What are my chances of not wearing glasses after the procedure?: This will depend on a number of factors, including your refractive error, your visual needs, and even your personality. It is important to understand that LASIK does not eliminate the need for reading glasses as one grows older.
What side effects are typical?: Your vision may fluctuate during the few days following the surgery. You may notice some glare around lights at night. Initially, your vision at night will probably not be as sharp as it is during bright day conditions following all types of refractive surgery and many people find that a thin pair of glasses for driving at night is helpful.
What are the risks of surgery?: Like any surgical procedure, LASIK carries some risk of complications. Risks include an infection which could damage your cornea and result in loss of vision, although this is extremely unlikely. As part of your evaluation for the procedure, we will give you an informed consent document which details potential risks and complications of surgery.
If necessary, can I wear contact lenses after LASIK?: Yes.
Are the effects of LASIK permanent?: Yes.
What is the difference between LASIK and PRK?: In PRK, the laser is used on the surface of the cornea and in LASIK, the laser is performed under a protective flap of tissue. Use of the laser under a protective flap produces faster visual recovery, less discomfort, less scarring and the anterior corneal architecture is maintained. In PRK, the laser is used on the surface of the eye, and it takes several weeks for the surface to heal and become smooth, allowing good vision. Steroid drops are necessary (usually for several months) to help regulate healing, and it is not as easy to repeat PRK, because of scarring and lack of predictability. For these reasons, LASIK is Dr. Wahl’s refractive procedure of choice.
What are the costs of the surgery?: LASIK costs $3,500. This comprehensive fee covers the LASIK evaluation, surgery on both eyes and the post-operative care. LASIK is considered to be an elective procedure, and therefore is not covered by medical insurance.
Where is LASIK performed?: Your LASIK surgery is performed right here at the Delaware Eye Institute’s outpatient surgery center in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. We use state of the art AMO “wavefront” technology in our patient friendly, private setting to make your refractive surgical experience as pleasant as possible.
How do I make an appointment to see if I’m a candidate?: PLEASE CALL 302-645-2300 to schedule your evaluation with Dr. Wahl. We look forward to helping you to see your world more clearly.

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302-645-2300

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