Eye Clinic of Wisconsin

What is LASIK?
How is ecLASIK different from standard LASIK?
Is ecLASIK vision correction covered by my insurance?
Am I eligible for ecLASIK vision correction?
Do I need an examination first?
What are the side effects?
What are the risks of LASIK?
What is an enhancement?
Does ecLASIK vision correction really work?
Are there any restrictions after the procedure?
Will ecLASIK vision correction prohibit me from having future eye surgery?
Does the surgery hurt?
What are the ecLASIK Standard and Lifetime Enhancement Policies?
Who is eligible for the ecLASIK Enhancement Policies?
What do I do next?

What is LASIK?

During LASIK, (laser in situ keratomileusis) an instrument called a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser is used to gently lift and fold back a thin flap of tissue across the outer layer of the eye, to expose the cornea. An excimer laser is then used to reshape the cornea. This laser is extremely accurate and can remove a quarter of a micron of tissue at a time. (A human hair is approximately 50 microns thick). After the laser is used, the flap is folded back into position and reseals entirely on its own. The procedure itself takes about 20 minutes.

How is ecLASIK different from standard LASIK?

There are several important differences between ecLASIK and standard LASIK. First, ecLASIK procedures are only performed by the most experienced refractive surgeons in the region. The experience of ecLASIK surgeons may improve your surgery in rare or complex surgical situations. Second, the price of your ecLASIK procedure is all-inclusive; your surgeon will use the best available technology to care for your vision, and any follow-up enhancements are covered for one year. Finally, your ecLASIK procedure also ensures your vision is being cared for by the Eye Clinic of Wisconsin, the region’s most comprehensive multi-specialty vision care team.

Is ecLASIK vision correction covered by my insurance?

Most insurance companies consider laser vision correction elective in nature and do not cover the procedure, but we recommend you check with your individual insurance company. In comparison, consider the repeated costs of purchasing new eyeglass frames and lenses and disposable contacts year after year! Eye Clinic of Wisconsin accepts cash, MasterCard, Visa and has attractive financing plans available (click here to learn more about our payment options).

Am I eligible for ecLASIK vision correction?

This depends on your age, your prescription and the general health of your eyes. Your prescription must have been stable for the past 12 months. For this reason, we suggest you be 18 years of age or older. Although most laser vision correction patients are under 60, even seniors may be eligible.

Do I need an examination first?

Prior to treatment, you will have a laser vision consultation and a thorough eye exam. A detailed computer image is taken of your eye that will map the curvature, shape, overall smoothness and regularity of the cornea

What are the side effects?

As with any treatment or surgery there are risks, even though they are rare. Pain is uncommon. You may experience halos, glare, light sensitivity, blurred vision, double vision, difficulty with night vision and/or a foreign body sensation. Rare risks include infection, overcorrection, undercorrection, irregular astigmatism, epithelial ingrowth, corneal abrasion, reduction of best corrected vision, dry eyes or induced astigmatism.

What are the risks of LASIK?

Most patients are very pleased with the results of their refractive surgery. However, like any other medical procedure, there are risks involved. That’s why it is important for you to understand the limitations and possible complications of refractive surgery.

Before undergoing a refractive procedure, you should carefully weigh the risks and benefits based on your own personal value system, and try to avoid being influenced by friends that have had the procedure or doctors encouraging you to do so.

For a full list of risk factors related to refractive surgery provided by the FDA, please follow this link.

What is an enhancement?

An enhancement is a repeat of the surgical procedure, which is occasionally done when the eye has been undercorrected. The necessity for an enhancement procedure is determined when the patient’s post-operative vision has stabilized. The length of time necessary for vision to stabilize depends upon the procedure and the patient’s individual healing time.

Does ecLASIK vision correction really work?

Yes. Laser vision correction is performed all around the world. Over 90% of people who have had one of these procedures obtain normal vision, and many others are happy to lessen their dependence on glasses and contact lenses.

Are there any restrictions after the procedure?

For the first four hours after surgery we encourage you to sleep as much as possible.

Swimming, hot tubs, saunas and Jacuzzis are prohibited for two weeks. Do not wear facial makeup for 48 hours and do not wear eye makeup for 1 week. When your vision clears, you may drive and you may return to work in one or two days.

Will ecLASIK vision correction prohibit me from having future eye surgery?

Refractive surgery will not interfere with any future eye surgery you may need, such as cataract or glaucoma surgery.

Does the surgery hurt?

No. The actual procedure does not hurt. Anesthetic drops are administered before the surgery begins. Some patients may experience discomfort during the first 12 to 36 hours after the procedure. Some patients describe the feeling as a lash in the eye or something under a contact lens. Medications are available if you are concerned about this possibility. An oral sedative is given 30 minutes prior to the procedure to help you relax.

What are the ecLASIK Standard and Lifetime Enhancement Policies?

The Eye Clinic of Wisconsin refractive surgeons use the most advanced technology and the most refined procedures to help our patients obtain the best possible results. Every patient that selects ECW for their LASIK is covered under the Standard Enhancement Policy. Any enhancement treatment that is necessary within 12 months of the initial procedure will be provided at no additional cost. We are so confident that whether you have Custom or Traditional LASIK, ecLASIK or PRK, we offer an optional Lifetime Enhancement Policy to help you maintain the best possible vision throughout your life. If you ever require vision enhancement, ECW will provide surgical treatment at no additional cost.

Who is eligible for the ecLASIK Enhancement Policies?

In order to qualify and remain eligible for participation under ECW’s Enhancement Policies, patients must:

• Have the initial and any subsequent laser procedures performed by an ECW physician at an ECW facility.
• Complete all post-operative visits/treatments prescribed by the ECW surgeon and/or ECW affiliate doctor during the first twelve months after the initial and any subsequent procedure.
• Complete regular yearly eye exams with an ECW or ECW affiliate doctor every 12 months. A record of satisfactory completion of such exams will be maintained by the ECW or ECW affiliate doctor.

Because the ocular health of our patients is our primary concern, patients must meet several criteria to qualify and remain eligible for coverage under ECW’s enhancement policies. An ECW surgeon will make the final determination as to whether enhancement is appropriate for each patient. Please contact our Refractive Coordinators at 715.261.8553 for complete details and to answer any questions you may have regarding our Lifetime or Standard Enhancement Policies.

What do I do next?

Your next step is to learn about your laser vision correction needs. Call 800.472.0033 today to schedule your free ecLASIK consultation. We are committed to helping you make an informed decision.