Ophthalmology and Optometry

Refractive Eye Surgery

Refractive eye surgery at Marshfield Clinic focuses on better vision

People looking to improve their vision should know that Marshfield Clinic now provides Laser Vision Correction. Marshfield Clinic ophthalmologists, Rebecca Bartow, M.D. and Phillip Smith, M.D. now perform the surgery at Marshfield Clinic Marshfield Center.

The virtually painless outpatient procedure helps reduce dependence on glasses in cases of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. A special laser is used to reshape the cornea and thereby changes the way the images are focused in the back of the eye.

Safety and precision of Refractive eye surgery

Standard Refractive eye surgery procedures are performed using the Visx Star S4 Active Track Excimer Laser System. This allows for extra safety and precision during the procedure by verifying the correct position of your eye before every laser pulse. Real-time eye tracking enables the laser to lock onto the center of the pupil, even if the patient moves an eye.

In addition to traditional refractive eye surgery, Marshfield Clinic also offers the option of CustomVue, a newer technology that enables the ophthalmologist to treat more than simple prescriptions. CustomVue provides a precise, highly detailed analysis of your vision, almost like a fingerprint.

"This ability to analyze a person’s specific irregularities to completely customize laser eye surgery often provides better results," said ophthalmologist Rebecca Bartow, M.D., adding that the options are discussed during the initial consultation.

Wavefront technology's advanced method

Ophthalmologists here at Marshfield Clinic have access to wavefront technology, which is an advanced method of measuring visual distortions (also known as aberrations) of the eye before refractive eye surgery. Your ophthalmologist can significantly reduce any existing higher order aberrations (including irregular astigmatism and spherical aberration), which can result in fewer visual side effects and improved quality of vision following refractive eye surgery.

There are risks associated with LASIK, as with any surgery. In addition, risks and recovery time are not the same for every patient; not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery. Many conditions contradict the procedure.

Patient Stories

Katherine O., from central Wisconsin, is an avid runner and hiker. She used to have to wear glasses or contacts to see well enough to run. Most runners prefer not to wear glasses because they can easily fall off and break, but in her case, neither option was a good choice: She has an allergy to contact lenses that makes wearing all but expensive single-use lenses impractical.

Dealing with her poor vision was a constant hassle. After checking around, she learned that Marshfield Clinic's eye surgeons were the most experienced in the area and used the most advanced lasers. She looked further into LASIK eye surgery at Marshfield Clinic and liked the extensive pre- and post-operative care. Her eye surgery has made a huge difference in her eyes, letting her see far down the trail and beyond with perfect vision.

Now Katherine doesn't have to cope with the inconvenience of corrective lenses...and can spend more time enjoying the view. Says Katherine, "LASIK changed my view on life."

Randy B., also from central Wisconsin, had astigmatism that was becoming so bad, it made enjoying hunting, fishing or riding ATVs with his son difficult. Sports and glasses don't go together very well, and neither do outdoor activities - especially if it's rainy or foggy.

His contacts weren't a much better option. He had stopped wearing his contacts because the little weights in them that kept them from moving also made them uncomfortable.

Despite how bad his vision had become, an evaluation at Marshfield Clinic proved he was a prime candidate for LASIK eye surgery. The procedure was quick, easy, and over in a matter of minutes.

Before his LASIK eye surgery, Randy couldn't even read his clock when he got up in the morning without first fumbling around for his glasses. Now his vision is great, although he somtimes finds himself habitually reaching up to reposition glasses that aren't there anymore. He's playing softball, watching his kids grow up, and having fun riding an ATV again. According to Randy, "LASIK put me back on the trail."

To make a consultation appointment:

To see if refractive eye surgery is right for you, call toll free 1-866-625-2745 (1-866-MC LASIK). Dr. Bartow performs LASIK surgery at Marshfield Clinic Marshfield Center and consultations take place at Marshfield Clinic Marshfield Center.

For additional information about laser vision correction (LASIK), please consult our Frequently Asked Questions or e-mail Kristi Pupp.