2) ASLA/PRK

What is PRK? Photo Refractive Keratectomy is similar to LASIK, only that a flap is not lifted in order to re-shape the underlying cornea. Rather, the surface layer (epithelium) is removed and the laser then re-mouldes the underlying cornea. A contact lens is placed on the eye and the epithelium heals up under the contact lens over approximately 3 days. PRK is accurate and the results are similar to LASIK. As mentioned, the recovery is slower and PRK can be quite uncomfortable.

3) Refractive lens exchange:

Refractive lens exchange is similar to cataract surgery. The natural lens in the eye is replaced with an artificial lens. The indication to do this surgery is usually in cases where LASIK/PRK would not be suitable or where an individual has developed presbyopia and would like to able to se in the distance and near without wearing glasses. A multifocal intra-ocular lens is used in these cases.

Refractive lens exchange is an excellent option for suitable candidates. It is invasive surgery and has associated risks which will be discussed with your doctor at the time of consultation.

Frequently asked questions:

• What does it cost?
  The cost of surgery varies according to the type of procedure you are having. The costs also change over time as the cost of surgery are subject to changes in currency exchange rates as products used in surgery are imported from the USA.
• Our current rates for LASIK to both eyes is $6000.00. Single eye surgery is $3200.00.
• Finance can be arranged through a third party (GE Money), however this option is more expensive and not encouraged.
• Health insurance and medicare do not cover any of the costs of laser refractive surgery.

2. Whats included in the surgery fee?

• Use of the laser facility
  Customised wavefront-guided or wavefront optimised treatment
  Comprehensive care up to 12 months after the procedure
  Surgical enhancements up to 12 months following the surgery

3. Is surgery painful?

• LASIK surgery is done using topical anaesthetic. The surgery is well tolerated and mostly pain-free. The eyes can be scratchy after the surgery and you will be given topical anti-inflammatory eyedrops to use after the surgery.

4. Is LASIK surgery safe?

• LASIK surgery is very safe. The technology has evolved over the last 20 years and millions of people around the world have had LASIK surgery. Although rare, complications can occur with the laser or with the procedure. In most cases these do not have an adverse effect on the outcome of surgery.

5. What complications can occur?

• Like all medical and surgical procedures, there is always a risk involved in any procedure and this includes laser vision correction surgery. Complications are rare and mostly treatable.
• Treatment should not be taken unless the patient can accept the unlikely possibility of a complication occurring from the laser treatment. A comprehensive discussion will take place at the time of your assessment to inform you of the risks associated with the surgery.

5. Am I a suitable candidate to have surgery?

• Not everyone is a good candidate to have laser eye surgery. There are many reasons why this may be the case. You will have a comprehensive assessment to ascertain if you are a suitable candidate to have surgery where your surgeon will explain the different surgical options suitable to your individual case.

6. Pre-op assessment:

• Where will it take place? Armadale eye clinic- 93 Kooyong Rd
  How long will it take? Up to an hour
  Can I drive after the appointment? NO , your pupils will be dilated so you won’t be able to drive to the appointmant
  Should I wear contact lenses to the appointment? NO. Please do not wear contact lenses for 3-5 days prior to your appointment.
  What will it cost? There will be an out of pocket fee for the assessment. This can be reduced if you have a referral for an assessment. you can get a referral from your GP or optometrist.

7. Day of surgery:

• Where does the surgery take place? 1209 High Street, Armadale
  How long is the surgery? The actual procedure takes about 10 minutes. Allow up to 2 hours to have the surgery as there is a process which needs to occur to perform the surgery in the safest possible means
  Can I drive after the surgery? No. You will need someone to drive you home after the surgery
  Will I be able to see later the surgery? Yes, but the vision will be blurry for a few hours after the surgery. The best thing to do is to go home and rest for the remainder of the day after having the surgery.
  Wil me eyes be sore after the procedure? Yes, your eyes will feel scratchy for the remainder of the day after the surgery. you will be given instructions and eye drops after the surgery and it’s imperative that you follow those instructions closely.

8. Post op review:

• Where does this take place? At Armadale Eye Clinic
  When does it take place? The morning following surgery
  How long is the appointment? The follow-up appointment is quick so long as there are no issues with your surgery
  Can I drive to this appointment: No. You need someone to drive you to this appointment.
  How to make an appointment?