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This is a highly precise flying spot laser that utilizes a sophisticated closed-loop eye tracking system. Patients no longer have to be concerned with natural eye movements getting in the way of precise results. It works in conjunction with the LADARWave wavefront system to determine the proper shape of the eye for maximum vision correction. The predetermined optimal shape of the eye is transferred from the LADARWave device to the LADARVision 4000 laser with the highest level of accuracy. The result of this CustomCornea treatment is a unique postprocedure cornea that maximizes visual potential in patients with large or small pupils. To learn more about LADARVision technology, please visit www.ladarvision.com. Customized/Wavefront LASIK:Wavefront-guided LASIK represents the latest advance in vision correction. Unlike other LASIK procedures, with wavefront-guided LASIK Dr. Kelly can correct for minute aberrations beyond just the shape of the cornea. Wavefront technology measures distortions in the eye beyond the typical measurements of vision that have been used for centuries. With wavefront-guided LASIK, Dr. Kelly is able to perform a customized treatment for each patient based on the unique shape of his or her eye and the internal composition. The treatment is unique to each eye just as a fingerprint is unique. Patients who have undergone wavefront-guided LASIK often obtain even better vision than they had before with their glasses or contact lenses. The wavefront ablation procedure sets a new standard for vision correction, with the potential to enable better vision than with glasses or contacts. Originally developed for use in high-powered telescopes to reduce distortions when viewing distant galaxies, this technology evaluates specific imperfections in each individual's vision. It employs a diagnostic system that captures a fingerprint of the eye, which is 25 times more precise than what was previously measurable by standard methods for glasses and contact lenses. This wavefront data is then used to generate a customized, unique treatment for each individual eye by transferring data from the wavefront machine directly and precisely into the laser. The benefit of wavefront technology begins with the evaluation when the surgeon gathers important information about a person's vision to determine the best course of action to pursue. FDA data demonstrated that 98% of patients could see 20/20 or better without glasses or contacts after wavefront LASIK. Also four times as many people were very satisfied with their night vision. Remarkably, 70% of patients could see better than 20/20 after the procedure. The bottom line is that people who are considering vision correction need to take the initiative to educate themselves on the technology available and make sure they aren't settling for anything but the best. When you choose a surgeon who is committed to technology, you are taking a step toward clear vision. For patients who would like more information on wavefront technology, please visit the following web site: http://www.eyesurgeryeducation.com/Wavefront_Technology.html Visx STAR S4 LaserWe offer the Visx STAR S4 laser that includes CustomVue wavefront analysis and customized treatment of each individual patient. The Visx ActiveTrak laser allows Dr. Kelly to track your eye movements in all three dimensions during the treatment. Patients feel more comfortable and secure knowing that the laser is monitoring their natural eye movements. Large pupils can also be treated with precision on the Visx STAR S4 CustomVue system. All laser LASIK (IntraLasik)The IntraLase Laser marks the first significant advancement in flap-creation technology in nearly 50 years. With its computer-controlled software, the IntraLase laser brings a level of accuracy and precision to flap creation for LASIK that is not attainable with mechanical blade technology. This all-laser approach provides patients with a safer, bladeless alternative to the microkeratome and offers Dr. Kelly a computer-controlled, minimally-invasive technique that reliably creates precise corneal flaps.
LASIK FAQWhich vision correction procedure is right for me?Because everyone's eyes are different, we cannot recommend a particular procedure until you come in for a thorough eye examination. At this time, Dr. Kelly will assess your eye condition along with a number of other factors in order to determine which refractive procedure would give you the optimum vision results. To schedule your free vision consultation, call us at 1-877-377-EYES. Is LASIK safe?We can tell you that 99% of our patients achieve vision within 2 lines of 20/20. If you examine the experience and track record of our surgeon and our practice, we feel you will have no problem trusting your eyes to us. Dr. Kelly has performed more than 10,000 successful LASIK procedures. Does LASIK hurt?Because the eye is numbed using special anesthetic drops, the procedure itself is only mildly uncomfortable. The patient is awake throughout the procedure and may feel slight pressure. The most uncomfortable period is the few hours following surgery. Most patients experience tearing, which usually disappears within 6 hours. We recommend keeping your eyes closed and resting for this period. What are the advantages of wavefront-guided LASIK?Wavefront-guided LASIK represents the latest advance in vision correction. With wavefront-guided LASIK, Dr. Kelly is able to perform a customized treatment for each patient based on the unique shape and internal qualities of his or her eye. Patients who have undergone wavefront-guided LASIK often obtain even better vision than they had before with their glasses or contact lenses. Are there any risks or side effects?The overwhelming majority of patients who have had LASIK are extremely satisfied with their results and indicate they would undergo LASIK again if they had the choice. However, as with any surgical procedure, for certain patients the outcome of LASIK may not meet all their expectations. An extremely small percentage of patients may experience complications. Please click here to view some of the more common side effects. What is the long-term experience with side effects?Keratomileusis, or the creation of a corneal flap to correct vision, has been performed since the 1960s. LASIK itself was first performed in the early 1990s and has more than a decade of excellent long-term results. The results appear to be stable for at least ten years. Dr. Kelly and experts around the world expect the results to be stable indefinitely. LASIK does not appear to increase or decrease the chances of developing other eye diseases. If other eye diseases develop because of genetic, aging, or environmental influences, LASIK does not prevent the ability to treat them. Dr. Kelly had LASIK performed on his eyes in 1997. How important is experience?Experience is very important! While the latest technology does minimize room for error in a refractive procedure, the surgeon is still in control. And the more experience, the more control. Dr. Kelly has performed more than 10,000 LASIK procedures with excellent results. Only a skilled, highly-trained surgeon can give you the best results. The more LASIK procedures performed, the more likely the surgeon is to anticipate any complications, and the better prepared he or she is to deal with individual patient characteristics. What kind of results can I expect from my LASIK procedure?Because everyone's eyes are different, we cannot promise you perfect vision. We can, however, give you a good idea what your outcome will be based on your current eye health. Many patients are able to read the clock on the wall in the laser room immediately after LASIK. However, your sight may fluctuate for a period of time after the procedure. It's important that patients have realistic expectations. While not all patients undergoing LASIK gain 20/20 or better vision, 99% of our LASIK patients see within 2 lines of 20/20 after the procedure. Although most patients are able to see clearly without glasses or contacts after LASIK, some will still require reading glasses or night-driving glasses. Will I ever have to wear glasses again?Although LASIK is intended to significantly reduce and likely eliminate your dependence on glasses and contacts, there is no guarantee that you will not have to use some form of eyewear for such tasks as night driving or to obtain your best possible vision after the procedure. Most patients will eventually need glasses or contacts for reading and up-close vision in response to a condition known as presbyopia. Presbyopia typically occurs at around age 40 to 45, regardless of whether one undergoes laser vision correction. The important point to understand about LASIK is that the reshaping of the cornea is permanent. What is the difference between private LASIK practices and discount providers?Dr. Kelly and his staff want to let you know that when shopping for eye care, the lowest price is not always the best value. The three main factors that separate private practices and discount laser centers are surgeon experience, technology, and personal care. If you ask around, you will see a noticeable difference in these factors between higher-priced private practices and lower-priced discounters. For instance, many discount LASIK providers do not even allow you to have contact with the surgeon until the day of surgery. Many times your consultation and testing will be done by technicians, and you will not have the comfort of being able to talk with the doctor first. You should be fully examined and counseled only by the surgeon doing your surgery. Anything less is cutting corners with your vision. Also, many advertised discount prices may have hidden charges. With Dr. Kelly, your pre-op and post-op visits are included in your surgery price. Another big difference may be technology. Many discount centers do not invest in the latest equipment, possibly limiting a patient's chance at an optimum outcome. We firmly believe that vision correction surgery is not a prudent place to cut corners. How do I know if I'm a good candidate for Laser Vision Correction?Please refer to the Am I a Candidate? page. How much does Laser Vision Correction cost?Laser vision correction with Dr. Kelly can start as low as $83.00 per month. This includes all pre- and postoperative care and any LASIK-related follow-up care required for two years. Visit our Financing page for more information. Are financing or payment options available?Yes, financing options are available. Credit cards are also accepted. Some people choose to set aside pre-tax money from their flexible benefits program at work to save for the procedure. We offer a variety of financing options designed to fit your budget. When you visit us for your free consultation, we'll go over all the options and help you choose the payment plan to best suit your needs. Visit our Financing page for more information. When can I return to work after LASIK?Most patients return to work the next day, so there's little downtime. Dr. Kelly will suggest that you take it easy for two to three days and will make a recommendation for recovery time based on your individual vision needs, healing, and work environment. Can I watch live surgery?Our prospective patients can arrange to view live surgery being performed by Dr. Kelly by calling the office. Most patients undergoing the procedure allow the laser suite curtains to remain open during the surgery so that prospective patients can view the surgery on a large monitor. This opportunity allows for firsthand contact with our patients. Can I be provided with patient referrals?We can provide you with a list of patients who have undergone LASIK with Dr. Kelly and are willing to share their experience. Dr. Kelly himself and many of his staff members have also had LASIK themselves. What if I blink or my eye moves during the procedure?Dr. Kelly uses specialized eye-tracking technology that takes into account the natural eye movements everyone has. He also utilizes an eyelid holder that prevents natural blinking. What's the first step?If you're considering LASIK, we'd like you to consider Dr. James Kelly. We urge you to come in for a free initial consultation. You'll have the opportunity to meet with Dr. Kelly and discuss the benefits and risks of LASIK and other refractive surgery procedures. Take the first step toward investing in your vision. You won't regret it! Click here to contact us. Am I a Candidate?LASIK is a surgical procedure conducted on a delicate part of the eye called the cornea. As such, it is critical that potential candidates are well educated on the benefits and risks of the procedure. It is imperative to recognize the importance of a thorough examination by the surgeon and to maintain realistic expectations about the procedure's outcome. Most patients who come to us for vision correction are excellent candidates for LASIK surgery. However, Dr. Kelly may decide that LASIK is not the vision correction option that will give you the best results. In the event that we determine LASIK is not the procedure that best suits your needs, you will have the opportunity to consider a variety of other procedures such as PRK, clear lens extraction, implant vision correction, glasses, or contact lenses. After a close look at your eye history and current health, Dr. Kelly will be able to give you a fair estimate of the results you should achieve with vision correction. Read more about Dr. Kelly and his New York laser eye surgery practice. Our best candidates for LASIK surgery meet the following criteria:
The Consultation
We believe that lifetime periodic eye examinations with an ophthalmologist are important to assess the ongoing health of the eye and to identify, at an early stage, any eye conditions that may require treatment. This is true regardless of whether one undergoes LASIK. We want our patients to be aware of the fact that good vision doesn't always mean the eyes are healthy. Please ask Dr. Kelly how often someone like you should be examined. It is critical to success that during your consultation you undergo a comprehensive examination. A comprehensive eye examination is performed during the consultation for LASIK or other vision correction procedures. This is necessary for several reasons. It must be determined whether you are a candidate for LASIK. If not, there may be other procedures that could improve your vision. If you are a candidate, the comprehensive exam will enable Dr. Kelly to counsel you on realistic outcomes and expectations for your individual set of circumstances and visual needs. A list of tests with explanations appears below. Please note the testing is painless and usually takes just 30 minutes. What happens during the consultation?1. Medical HistoryA complete medical, medication, and eye history is obtained. This is important as certain conditions and medications may render individuals ineligible for LASIK. In addition, we are interested in an individual's routine of contact lens use. Contact lenses may change the shape of the cornea. It is therefore imperative that a patient discontinue use of lenses for at least three days before the evaluation. Click here to access the printable history form if you wish to complete it ahead of time. Dr. Kelly believes knowing an individual's motivation for and expectations of laser vision correction to be an important variable in planning the procedure. There are certain occupations or hobbies that make one laser vision correction procedure better than another. Please keep in mind that certain government and nongovernment agencies allow only certain types of eye surgeries for their personnel. It is the patient's responsibility to ensure he or she obtains the correct information that applies to him or her regarding job requirements. Visual acuity is assessed with and without correction. This is done both before and after the eyes are dilated. The magnitude of the visual error is established in each eye in order to plan for the correction. At this time, the dominant eye is determined for those patients choosing to have monovision. Click here to learn more about monovision. 2. MotilityThis is a test of muscle balance. We check the ability of the eyes to align and remain straight. Occasionally we make the diagnosis of a lazy or wandering eye through this test. This measurement allows us to know if the eyes are working together. 3. Corneal TopographyThis measures the smoothness and curvature of the cornea's surface and creates a "map" of the cornea. The map is used to ensure that there are no irregularities that would preclude surgery such as a cornea that is too steep. 4. Wavefront AberrommetryThis test measures all irregularities of the eye from surface to retina and provides the "blueprint" to correct vision to the best possible level. The information obtained from this test is unique for every eye and is downloaded to the laser to design the treatment. Click here to read more about this technology: Customized/Wavefront LASIK. 5. Pupil SizePupil measurements are taken with an infrared camera in a dark room. The results are useful because we can: 1) design the appropriate treatment diameter that optimizes each person's vision, and 2) counsel patients about their potential risk of having more glare or haloes at nighttime. 6. Corneal Thickness/PachymetryCorneal thickness is determined with an ultrasound. In order to be a candidate for LASIK, your cornea must have sufficient thickness in multiple locations for the amount of your visual error. 7. TonometryThis is the calculation of eye pressure to detect glaucoma. Glaucoma is a disease in which the eye pressure is elevated causing damage to a structure in the back of the eye known as the optic nerve. Patients with glaucoma are not candidates for LASIK. 8. RefractionThis is the measurement of a patient's prescription. It is the level of vision that laser surgery is meant to equal. LASIK usually can not make vision better than the vision determined in the refraction part of the examination. This principle is being challenged by new wavefront technology. The refraction is performed with and without dilating drops. 9. Tear Film EvaluationThis is a test of the eye's ability to produce the appropriate quantity and quality of tears. In order to feel comfortable and see clearly, there must be sufficient tears. There are specific treatments that can be instituted before and after LASIK to assist with the tear film so that the healing process is optimized. 10. Slit Lamp ExaminationThe eyes are examined under a microscope in order to evaluate overall eye health. Sometimes diseases are detected that may require treatment other than LASIK. 11. Dilated FunduscopyDilating drops are placed in the eyes during the consultation in order to examine the structures in the back of the eye. We carefully check for diabetes, macular degeneration, and retinal holes. Occasionally we refer to a retinal specialist prior to proceeding with LASIK. All of these tests are performed by the surgeon, and results are discussed openly with the prospective patient by the surgeon. The consultation is complimentary with no obligation. On occasion, supplemental testing, such as visual fields, must be done before LASIK candidacy is confirmed. If any conditions requiring treatment are discovered during the consultation, a treatment plan will be developed. Please be aware that we recommend ongoing care of your eyes well after LASIK is performed. The eyes go through the same aging as the rest of the body and conditions may develop over time that require treatment. LASIK Surgery ChecklistEven though the LASIK procedure takes only a few minutes, there are many steps that you must take to prepare for consultation day, surgery day, and recovery. Please read about the LASIK process below to get an idea of how the LASIK experience works. Before SurgeryUpon or before your arrival to our Manhattan or Long Island office, you will be asked to complete a questionnaire regarding basic information and medical history. It is helpful if you complete the history form before your consultation and bring it with you. It is important to fill in this form completely and accurately. Click here to access the printable history form if you wish to complete it ahead of time. Prior to your consultation you will need to discontinue the use of soft contact lenses for at least 3 days so that accurate corneal measurements can be taken. For other types of lenses (e.g., spherical, toric, rigid, extended wear, gas-permeable) please call the office for details regarding the length of time for which they should be discontinued. During your consultation Dr. Kelly and staff will personally perform a thorough and detailed eye exam to determine your candidacy for and appropriateness of LASIK for the treatment of your vision problem. He will be glad to address all of your questions and concerns regarding laser vision correction. Please note that Dr. Kelly often dilates patients' eyes during the exam to assess the health of the entire eye. Dilation typically results in blurry vision and light sensitivity for 3 hours following the exam and may make computer work, reading, and driving difficult. We suggest taking this into account when scheduling your consultation and consider bringing a companion if you need to drive. Overall, a full consultation with dilation will require a 60-minute office visit. Please see the Consultation section to read about the specific tests. We will also provide you with a packet of information about how the eye functions and laser vision correction itself. We require that all patients read the consent-for-surgery forms as well as the pre- and post-op instruction forms before surgery. We also ask that you have payment arrangements taken care of on or before the day of surgery. Prior to surgery, we require that you have signed all consent forms. For those patients interested in using one of our popular financing options, we ask that you apply prior to your visit in order to save time. You may do this securely online by clicking here. If you have questions regarding payment or financing please visit our Financing page. If you decide to have LASIK after your consultation, we will coordinate the best time for your surgery and post-op exams. There are typically 3 to 4 brief postoperative visits throughout the year following the procedure that are extremely important to ensure the best possible outcome. You will also be given prescriptions for eye drops prior to surgery. We strongly advise having the prescriptions filled prior to your surgery date so that you can use the eye drops the day of surgery. Please note there are distinct advantages and disadvantages of having one or both eyes operated on the same day. Although the vast majority of patients have both eyes operated on the same day, there are situations in which Dr. Kelly operates on the two eyes on separate days. As with any vision correction issue, specific questions can be referred to the office by telephone or e-mail. Day of SurgeryIn anticipation of surgery, a mixture of anxiety and excitement is perfectly normal. On the day of surgery your vision and depth perception will be temporarily altered. In addition, you may be given a relaxant medication. For theses reasons we require that you arrange for a companion to accompany you home. While the procedure itself takes only minutes, you should expect the total time at the laser center to be approximately two hours. There are no restrictions on eating, drinking, or medications before the procedure. However, alcohol should be avoided. Please do not wear any makeup or use any fragrance on laser day. Fragrances and makeup interfere with the laser. Ensure your contact lenses have been discontinued long enough preceding your LASIK. Wear comfortable clothes. Overall, the majority of patients describe the LASIK procedure as mildly uncomfortable. For more detailed information on the LASIK procedure click on About the Procedure. Please be aware that blurry vision is typical during the first 18 hours after the procedure. Burning, tearing, discomfort, and the inability to open the eyes for the first several hours after the procedure is normal. We often prescribe extra-strength Tylenol to alleviate the temporary discomfort. Driving is not permitted during the first 24 hours following the procedure. The majority of patients resume normal activities after 24 hours! In the unlikely event that an enhancement is needed to maximize your outcome, Dr. Kelly provides two years of no-cost LASIK enhancements if medically eligible and appropriate. After SurgeryHaving realistic expectations after LASIK is critical. Your eyes may feel irritated, uncomfortable, and dry. Dr. Kelly will instruct you on eye-drop usage. We suggest you keep your eyes closed for the first 5 hours following the procedure to allow healing to begin. After approximately 5 hours, your eyes will feel more relaxed and you'll notice a significant improvement in your vision. Most patients can drive and return to work the day following the procedure as long as their vision meets certain state requirements and Dr. Kelly clears them to do so. Most patients also notice a continued improvement for the several weeks following LASIK. We prescribe antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to be used for one week following the procedure. Some patients develop a temporary dry eye sensation that is treated with the use of artificial tears. We provide a clear protective eye shield to be used while sleeping for the first couple of nights after the procedure and also recommend using sunglasses for a few days because the eyes may be sensitive to bright light. There are typically 3 to 4 brief follow-up visits after the surgery. It is important that every patient adhere to all follow-up visits because success depends not only on the measurements before surgery, and on the surgery itself, but also on postoperative care. If you cannot keep an appointment before or after surgery, we would greatly appreciate your notifying us as far in advance as possible. There are certain activities we require patients refrain from for about a week following LASIK. They are such things as: touching or rubbing the eyes or eyelids, engaging in contact sports or swimming, and wearing makeup. Patients should avoid hot tubs and whirlpools and smoking. Showers and baths are fine, but avoid having the water pressure contact the eyes or eyelids. Avoid dusty and dirty environments for several days. Watching television or using the computer is fine but may cause some temporary light sensitivity. Airplane travel is fine after Dr. Kelly clears you to do so; usually this is just after your 24-hour postoperative visit. For a complete list of precautionary measures, please contact a patient coordinator for a printed instruction sheet on the matter. Also please note that routine aerobic and weight training can be resumed within three days of the procedure. Because everyone's eyes are different, we cannot promise you perfect vision. We can, however, give you a good idea of what your outcome will be. This is based on your current eye health. While not all patients will have 20/20 vision following surgery, 99% of patients will see 20/30 or better, which is vision necessary for driving, and 98% will see 20/25 or better. Although most patients are able to see clearly without glasses or contacts after LASIK, some will require reading glasses or night-driving glasses. It is precisely for this reason that a thorough examination and discussion occur with the surgeon before the procedure. Each patient is informed of the risks and benefits of LASIK and needs to feel comfortable that they are making an educated decision based upon facts. Risks and Side EffectsDry Eye–During flap creation, corneal nerves are disrupted and a dry eye condition may develop that requires using eye drops postoperatively. Most of the dry eye induced by LASIK surgery resolves over several months but in a small percentage of cases may persist much longer. Undercorrection/Overcorrection–Even though LASIK surgery is precise, it is not a perfect science. As such, a patient may respond less or more than intended, resulting in the possible need for an enhancement surgery to achieve more optimal results. Nighttime Glare/Halos–It is a normal aspect of human vision to have a certain amount of nighttime glare when viewing light sources. This is because of the shape of the eye and is present even in individuals with naturally 20/20 vision. However, LASIK can increase the level of glare, even when using customized wavefront technology. Most of the additional glare induced by LASIK lessens over time because of healing and patient adaptation. Nonetheless, there is a small percentage of patients with chronically increased glare. Presbyopia–Most people over age 45 require some form of corrective lenses for reading and close-up vision. LASIK does not correct for this condition, and it is common that patients feel their need for reading glasses accelerates after LASIK. Please be aware that this list is not meant to be exhaustive but to serve as a guideline to some of the most common side effects. Details will be discussed with you personally during your consultation New York LASIK
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