LASIK is a surgical treatment
for nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or astigmatism which reshapes
the cornea. The procedure is performed in three steps. First, using the IntraLase™ method, tiny rapid pulses of laser light create a corneal flap that is then folded back. (Conventional LASIK uses a tiny metal blade to create this flap.) Next, an excimer laser corrects visual irregularities by removing microscopic layers of tissue from the underlying cornea. Harman Eye Center offers the VISX Star S-4 Laser with eye tracking capabilities, which makes LASIK even more safe and precise. Once the laser treatment is completed, the flap is returned to its original position on the front surface of the eye.
Creating a flap with the IntraLase method:
How are CustomVue™ and Intralase™ different from conventional LASIK?
IntraLase is the method of using a laser—instead of a metal blade—to create a precise corneal flap with added safety and predictability. The entire procedure is 100% blade-free. CustomVue is an enhanced LASIK system that is capable of more accurate, more precise and more predictable custom vision correction. In fact, in some patients, vision can be corrected to better than 20/20. While the traditional laser is concerned with correcting refractive problems caused by a generaly misshaped corneal surface, the new custom laser can take into consideration higher order aberrations (very subtle imperfections) to further improve vision. The custom laser has the ability to correct one area of the cornea slightly different than another area. In effect, this new laser system can provide a vision correction pattern that is custom designed for the individual to reduce the effects of these higher order aberrations, such as night vision glare, haloes and contrast sensitivity.
Harman Eye Center also offers conventional LASIK if requested. We will examine you to determine the best method for you.
How much experience does Dr. Harman have?
Dr. Harman has performed over 5,500 refractive surgery procedures since 1993, including INTACS, PRK, RK, ALK and over 4,000 LASIK procedures. He is one of the most experienced refractive surgeons in Virginia.
Will it hurt?
Your eye will be numbed with a topical anesthetic
prior to surgery. Patients generally experience little or no discomfort
during the procedure. You may experience some mild eye pain, similar
to feeling like there is an eyelash in your eye, after the procedure.
We will give you antibiotic drops as well as artificial tears
in your post-operative kit to make your eye more comfortable.
Where will I have my surgery?
Dr. Harman performs LASIK surgery in the laser surgery suite located in his office at 1825 Graves Mill Road in Forest, Virginia 24551, just outside of Lynchburg.
How long will it take?
The procedure itself takes about 10 minutes per eye; however, you will be at the office for about 2 hours so that we can prepare your eyes for the procedure. We will also schedule you for several visits after surgery.
How much time will I have to take off work?
Most patients return to work and other normal activities within a day or two after surgery.
How do I know if I'm a candidate?
In order to determine if you are a candidate for laser refractive surgery, we offer a free screening. If you are a candidate and wish to pursue surgery, we will then schedule you for a comprehensive eye exam and corneal mapping.
