LASIK...so what is it?

LASIK (Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a procedure which allows people to finally gain independence from glasses and contact lenses. It has been around for decades and has a proven track record of being safe and dependable. While every surgery has risk, the overwhelming majority of people who undergo LASIK surgery are thrilled with the results. Not everyone is a candidate for standard LASIK; some patients may do better with PRK (Photo-Refractive Keratectomy), while some people are not candidates for any laser vision correction surgery at all. Call for a LASIK evaluation and see if it is right for you!

Why have your LASIK done at Reich Medical and Surgical Eye Care?

Not all LASIK practices are the same. There are different techniques and technological options available. Some surgeons still use a blade to cut the corneal flap; most use a laser for this step. Dr. Isaac Reich only uses the newest and most advanced laser on the market, the Zeiss VisuMax Femtosecond laser. It is the only of its kind in the NY metropolitan area. It is both the most precise and gentle laser on the market, lessening the likelihood of complications and enabling a significantly more comfortable patient experience and a quicker recovery. 

How does it work?

LASIK works by first lifting a thin flap off of the the outer layer of the eye, called the cornea. This historically was performed by using a blade, it is now usually done by laser. The underlying cornea is then reshaped using another type of laser in a way that negates the eye's natural refractive error (aka prescription). Essentially, a person's glasses or contact lens prescription is 'implanted' directly into the cornea, leaving one able to see as good or better than before, but without the need for glasses or contacts. The flap is then gently replaced securely in its original position.

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Not everyone's eyes can have standard LASIK; for these candidates PRK may be an option. PRK basically skips the first step of LASIK; there is no flap lifted off the front of the eye. The laser is applied directly to the cornea instead. The initial healing time is somewhat longer but the end result is equivalent to LASIK: sharp, clear, glasses free vision.

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Think of how much time, effort and expense can be saved over time: no more expensive glasses to buy or contact lens refills to order... no more sticking contacts in your eyes in the morning, no more need for cleaning them at the end of the day and no more worrying about falling asleep in contacts. Just wake up in the morning and start the day with crisp, clear vision!

The personal touch...

We have all heard ads on the radio for mega LASIK centers that offer discounted surgery. Unlike at some of those types of practices, at our office Dr. Reich will personally meet with you to see if you are a candidate, discuss your surgical options with you and answer all your questions. If you are a safe candidate and decide to proceed with surgery, Dr. Reich will perform the surgery and see you for all the follow up visits. You will not be shunted to other doctors after surgery, He will be there before, during, and after surgery to make sure you get the safest and best experience possible. This helps ensure a happy patient with the best possible visual outcome.