WVLEC Services — LASIK
Before Your Surgery
The first step is having a comprehensive eye examination to determine if you are a candidate for laser vision correction. During your examination Dr. Moore will discuss the various procedures to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. In addition, he will explain what outcomes you can expect, the recovery process, risks and other considerations.
During this comprehensive examination you will undergo a series of preoperative tests, in order to make certain that you get the most accurate correction possible. Some of the preoperative tests that may be done during your comprehensive evaluation are as follows:
- Computerized Topographical Analysis (Computerized Video Keratography)
This is a very sophisticated, computerized, high-tech analysis machine that will record in detail the corneal topography (over approximately 6,000 points on the corneal surface), so that we may be able to see exactly what the corneal shape is prior to surgery and be able to follow that corneal shape after surgery to determine the impact of LASIK on the cornea. - Pachymetry
Pachymetry will be measured to determine the thickness of the cornea. This measurement will also be followed postoperatively. - Tonometry
Tonometry is taken to determine the intraocular pressure both preoperatively and postoperatively. - Endothelial Cell Count (ECC)
This is a technique employed to determine the number of endothelial cells present on the back of the cornea, as well as the health of the endothelial cells. These measurements will be followed periodically after LASIK. Endothelial cells are responsible for corneal clarity and appropriate hydration of the cornea. - Contrast Sensitivity Analysis
This is a contrast sensitivity test that will be done prior to and following the Excimer Laser surgery. Contrast sensitivity measures the ability of the eye to distinguish images under varying degrees of lighting. - Glare Testing The BAT (Brightness Acuity Tester)
Will be used to determine preoperative glare versus postoperative glare at various post-op intervals. - Tear Assay Assessment
One of the most frequent complications after LASIK is dry eye. This is because the procedure compromises the long posterior corneal nerves that help stimulate the brain to initiate the production of tears. The results of this test rarely rule out LASIK but can assist the doctor in determining the proper treatment plan post operatively. - Keratometry
Automated keratometry will be done to measure the curvature of the central 3 mm of the cornea. - Slit lamp photographs
Slit lamp photographs may be taken of the cornea both pre-op and post-op.
If you wear contact lenses you will need to stop wearing them prior to your comprehensive exam. At West Virginia Laser Eye Center we require two weeks for soft lenses and four weeks for hard or gas perm lenses.
It is not uncommon for Dr. Moore to request that some of the tests be repeated. Repeating these tests, in some cases, help ensure accuracy and predictability. If Dr. Moore requests repeating any tests or orders additional tests not discussed here, don't be concerned. Some of the tests may even be repeated several times preoperatively. Once your testing is completed you will be scheduled for your procedure. You should arrive for your procedure prepared to sign the consent forms that were given to you during your initial visit. You will be given many opportunities to ask any questions throughout your initial exam and prior to the procedure.