Laser Vision Correction
If your goal is to reduce your dependency on contact lenses or glasses, laser vision correction is the most technologically advanced option. The Elmquist Eye Group team can help you decide what is best for your eyes.
The Elmquist Team
Yasaira Rodriguez, MD, is a board certified eye surgeon whose areas of expertise include LASIK surgery, refractive cataract surgery, upper eyelid surgery, and in-office procedures. She is a member of the American Board of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.
Kate Wagner, OD, managing partner, and Nina Burt, OD, are both experienced board certified optometrists who provide pre- and post-op exams, testing, and follow-up care to our patients.
We have served Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Southwest Florida since 1992 and provide a comprehensive range of eye care services for everyone in your family.
What is Laser Vision Correction?
Laser vision correction is a procedure in which a laser is used to make changes to the corneal tissue of the eye. By correcting the steepness of the cornea, light can be focused differently in the eye and may reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contacts.
For example, nearsighted people have steep corneas that make it difficult to see things at a distance. Laser vision correction, such as LASIK or PRK, can reduce the curvature of the cornea to improve distance vision.
Farsighted people have corneas that are too flat, making it difficult to see things up close. LASIK or PRK can steepen the curvature of the cornea and sharpen your near vision.
If you have astigmatism, your cornea is irregularly curved, which causes your vision to be out of focus. LASIK or PRK can smooth the cornea and provide you with clear, crisp vision.
At Elmquist Eye Group, our preferred technique for laser vision correction is the state-of-the-art all-laser LASIK procedure, which alters the curvature of your cornea by means of cool laser beams instead of a surgical blade. We believe it offers our patients an unprecedented level of safety, comfort and precision.
The entire procedure takes 15-30 minutes and all-laser LASIK surgery is painless and quick. Artificial tears and a good night’s sleep can alleviate any minor discomfort you might feel after surgery. Most people will be able to return to normal exercise routines, work, and driving within 24-48 hours.
If you’ve been told you may be a poor candidate for LASIK surgery because of thin corneal tissue, flat corneas, or corneal irregularities or scars, an alternative called PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) may provide a safe and effective option.
PRK is a technique that reshapes the surface of the cornea without cutting a flap. The excimer laser removes epithelial cells from the surface of the cornea to alter its shape and allow light rays to focus more precisely on the retina. The cornea may take up to one week to heal, and it may be several weeks before your vision reaches its maximum sharpness.
If you live or work in Southwest Florida, schedule an evaluation with Elmquist Eye Group to find out if you may be a good candidate for laser vision correction. Call us today at (239) 936-2020.