Ophthalmology and Optometry
Refractive Eye Surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I choose Marshfield Clinic?
Marshfield Clinic ophthalmologists have access to all the latest technology, and are able to analyze and customize the procedure that is right for you. We also offer extensive pre- and post-operative care. Our single-fee pay structure means that you get your evaluations, consultations, surgery and all follow-up care the first year for one flat fee.
Top
What is LASIK?
Throughout the years, advances in technology have made it possible for people to see more clearly and to become less dependent on glasses or contact lenses in their everyday life. A new procedure is available to help treat vision problems that require glasses or contact lenses. Laser vision correction (LVC) is known as laser in-situ keratomileusis or LASIK. It involves the use of the excimer laser to deliver pulses of ultraviolet light to the eye to reshape its outer surface.
To the nearly 65 million nearsighted and farsighted Americans, laser vision correction could mean a significantly decreased dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
Top
What types of vision disorders can be corrected using LASIK?
There are three types of vision disorders that can be surgically corrected. These conditions are called refractive errors. They include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
Top
What is myopia?
Myopia is nearsightedness. It occurs when the cornea is shaped too steeply or when the eyeball is too long. This means that the light entering the eye is focusing at a point in front of the retina instead of on the retina. A myopic eye can see near objects clearly. Distant objects are seen more clearly only with the aid of glasses, contact lenses or procedures such as laser vision correction.
Top
What is hyperopia?
Hyperopia is farsightedness. It occurs when the cornea is too flat centrally and steeper at the edges. This means the images focus beyond the retina. In our youth, the natural accommodating (focusing) power of the eyes often compensates. As we age, our eyes become less able to accommodate. Farsightedness can be reduced or eliminated by glasses, contact lenses, or procedures such as laser vision correction, by making the central part of the cornea more steeply curved.
Top
What is astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a condition that occurs when the cornea is not perfectly round/spherical like a basketball, but has two curvatures much like a football. This results in light rays not coming into a single focus. A blurred distorted image then occurs. Astigmatism can occur by itself or in combination with nearsightedness or farsightedness. It can be reduced or eliminated by laser vision correction.
Top
What is excimer laser and how does it work?
The excimer laser produces pulses of a high energy, cold ultraviolet light beam. These pulses break the bonds between molecules and the tissue cells of the cornea. The controlled amount of tissue is vaporized away, one microscopic layer at a time. The amount of tissue removed is less than the thickness of one human hair. The excimer laser is computer controlled and is programmed to treat each individual eye.
Top
How does removing a thin layer from the eye's cornea change my vision?
The software-controlled laser emits pulses of light to the cornea in such a pattern that the new shape is much like the shape of a contact lens used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. The goal of laser vision correction is to reduce, or even eliminate, your need for glasses or contact lenses.
Top
Is laser vision correction considered experimental?
No. Laser vision correction has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. The excimer laser used to perfom LVC has proven to be safe and effective for the correction of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. More than a million cases have been performed worldwide.
Top
Will I still need reading glasses?
Yes. Lasik surgery corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, not presbyopia (need for reading glasses). For patients over 40 years of age, reading glasses may be necessary after having surgery. If you currently wear bifocals or reading glasses, you will still need them after surgery.
Top
How do I know if I am a candidate?
Candidates for laser vision correction should be 21 years or older with stable vision, healthy eyes and a refractive error within the range of effective treatment. You will need a thorough evaluation by the eye doctor to determine if you are a good candidate.
Top
How do I make a consultation appointment?
You may call Marshfield Clinic toll free 1-866-625-2745 (1-866-MC LASIK). Dr. Bartow performs LASIK surgery at Marshfield Clinic and consultations take place at Marshfield Clinic Marshfield Center.
Top
