LASER VISION CORRECTION Three Main Types of Laser Vision Correction are done at the Minneapolis Medical Eye Cinic at the Phillips Eye Institute: 1.Laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK). (link) 2. Laser Assisted Epitheial Keratomelusis (LASEK)(link) 3. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)(link) All three procedures correct most  types of refractive errors, known as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism (cylinder) All three procedures are "state-of-the-art procedures" for correcting refractive errors that compromise distance vision: All three use the VISX STAR S4 laser at the Phillips Eye Institute All three use Custom Wavefront Ablations that are selected for your individual eye correction. All three reduce or eliminate your need for glasses or contact lenses in  the majority of patients, but not ALL. None of the three can correct middle-age-acquired loss of focusing for reading, unless monovision treatments are done. Monovision treatements are done by correcting one eye for distance and leaving the opposite eye nearsigthted. Many people can adjust to this difference between eyes especially if they have prior experience with monovision through contact lens wearing. All three work well for most people, but a small minority need a second procedure (enhancement). (<5%) Prior to surgery, a recent and comprehenisive eye exam including dilating eye drops, corneal topography, corneal thickness, pupil size and dryness are critical during a pre-op evaluation. This evaluation could last as long as 2 hours. Prior to surgery,  a Custom Wavefront Mapping of your cornea is done at the adjacent Phillips Eye Institute. The main difference between LASIK, and LASEK or PRK is the creation of a flap of tissue under which the laser treatment is done.  LASIK utilizies a flap and LASEK and PRK have no flap.  Overall complication rate should be lower without the creation of a flap.  However, because of the flap, LASIK can be done on both eyes on the same day.  LASEK and PRK require a  separation of several days between eyes.   Thousands of patients have had great, life-changing, experiences through Laser Vision Correction.   This might be a great procedure for YOU, too.  Call us for a Laser Vision Correction consult.   See if you are a candidate!   Your Laser Vision Correction Experience Very minor discomfort is associated with the procedure, as well as the first few hours post-laser. Eyedrops only are needed to numb the eye, and very light sedation is customary for the treatment session. Procedure time for treating one eye (LASEK/PRK) is about 10 min. and about 20 min. if both eyes are done (LASIK) and your total time spent at Phillips Eye Institute is usually  1 to 1½ hours. Your Recovery FOR LASIK: Clear shields are taped over the eyes to protect from rubbing or injury and are worn through your first night. The shields should also be taped over the eyes for sleep during the first week. It is important to avoid rubbing or bumping the eyes, particularly during the first week post-laser.   Flap slippage or wrinkling of the flap can occur (1/200) in the first days. Vision is usually adequate for driving by the day after your laser treatment and returning to work is acceptable then as well.   FOR LASEK & PRK: No Shields are needed Vision fluctuates and may be inadequate for driving for the first week.  Therefore, only one eye is done at a time, but most people return to work the following day despite the in the operated eye. A bandage contact lens is placed over the operative eye until the surface fully heals ins 4 to 5 days.  Some irritation form the contact lens can be expected. PICKING ONE TYPE OF PROCEDURE OR ANOTHER: Whether you are a better candidate for LASIK, LASEK or PRK depends upon your personal eye condition, health and expectations. The specific procedure best for you will be discussed at your pre-operative consult with the eye surgeon. FEES: LASIK =  $3,350.00 (Both Eyes) LASEK = $3,250.00 (Both Eyes) PRK  = $3,210.00 (Both Eyes) Fee includes pre-laser corneal topography, surgery, facility fees, and post-op care.  An additional small facility fee charged for enhancement procedures.  Full payment due at least 2 working days before treatment or 1 week before treatment for personal checks. Financing options are available. FLEXIBLE SPENDING accounts are excellent sources of payment.