Frequently Asked Questions

What results can I expect after LASIK or PRK?

Results at UI Hospitals and Clinics have shown an improvement in uncorrected vision in people who have had laser refractive surgery. Some people may still need glasses or contact lens for certain activities.

Can both eyes be treated on the same day?

With LASIK, both eyes may be treated on the same day dependent upon the degree of treatment needed. With PRK, there is generally a wait between treatments. The length of wait will depend on your individual healing response. You may continue to wear your contact lens on the untreated eye. If you wear glasses you may want to have a "plain" lens put into your frames for the treated eye.

Will insurance cover refractive surgery?

LASIK and PRK are elective procedures and are usually not covered by most insurance plans. Check with your carrier for details regarding your individual policy.

How do I decide if I should have refractive eye surgery?

A person deciding if they should have refractive eye surgery should make an informed decision. It is best to have a clear goal for the surgery such as the ability to function in the middle of the night or in other situations without glasses, as well as a thorough understanding of the risks, possible complications and limitations of refractive surgery. It is important to remember, as with all surgeries, a good result cannot be guaranteed and no procedure is risk free.

How much discomfort will I have?

Each person's level of discomfort is different. This is usually a temporary "gritty" or foreign body feeling while the surface of the cornea is healing but will resolve over time. With LASIK the corneal surface heals in approximately 8 to 12 hours and with PRK the average healing time is 72 to 96 hours. Before and during the laser refractive procedure drops to numb the eye are placed so there is minimal irritation. Eye drops and pain medicine may be prescribed for use to relieve your discomfort.

How do I schedule an appointment and what does it involve?

In order to have LASIK or PRK we will need to review your medical history and you must have a complete eye exam by our physician. You will have a refraction done to verify your current degree of myopia and your pupils will be dilated. Corneal topography, a map of the surface of the cornea, will be performed with a computerized camera. The thickness of the cornea will be measured by ultrasound. This exam and the testing performed is necessary to develop your individual treatment plan. You will have a chance to have any additional questions answered at this time. To schedule an appointment you may call the main eye clinic scheduling number at 319/356-2852. If you have other questions about laser vision correction please call 866-309-0840 (toll free) or 353-7625 (locally).