Frequently asked questions
Is laser surgery costly?
No, when considering the cost-benefit ratio, laser surgery is not expensive, especially when utilizing the latest technology that ensures improved outcomes and enhanced safety. Compared to the ongoing expenses of contact lenses and glasses, surgery provides a permanent solution. Moreover, it brings about a positive psychological and social impact by transforming one's image. It is crucial to acknowledge the significant responsibility borne by the surgeon who performs these procedures. If you would like to inquire about the price of laser eye surgery in Bogota.
Can Presbyopia (age-related near vision impairment) be treated with Excimer Laser?
Presbyopia is primarily caused by the natural aging process of the lens, resulting in a loss of autofocus or accommodation for near vision. While it is not possible to fully reverse the aging process and completely correct presbyopia, laser treatment can provide partial correction. Laser treatment for presbyopia is primarily focused on improving near vision for the small print, but it may still necessitate the use of glasses in certain situations. It is important to note that presbyopia is a progressive condition, and it may reappear or worsen over time. Additionally, touch-up procedures may be required to maintain the desired level of correction.
Does Myopia surgery always cause discomfort in night vision and glare?
This used to be true for certain patients with large pupils. However, with the latest technology, it is no longer the case. The implementation of the Eye Tracker ensures that treatments are focused on the pupil, mitigating the risk of discomfort in night vision and glare. The latest program called "VSS" from VISX Star S4 enables treatments for larger pupils, up to 8.2 mm. The Pupillometer is used to measure the size of the pupil, and Iris Registration enables a fully personalized treatment design.
Does Myopia return after undergoing Myopia surgery?
No, this is a misconception that arose from the use of incision-based surgeries, which can be subject to changes over time due to corneal weakness. However, Myopia that has been treated with refractive surgery does not reoccur. It is important to note that degenerative Myopia (Myopia greater than 10 diopters) can progress with or without surgery as a result of natural eye growth. Additionally, age-related changes in the cornea may occur, but these changes are not associated with the surgery itself.
Can patients with previous refractive surgery undergo surgery again?
Yes, patients who have undergone previous refractive surgery can still undergo laser refractive surgery for specific purposes. This includes correcting irregular corneal curvature, addressing residual visual defects, and performing personalized ablation for optical aberration correction using Wavefront technology.
After laser surgery, can glasses or contact lenses be used again if necessary?
Yes, glasses or contact lenses can still be used if necessary after laser surgery. This is because laser surgery does not alter the structure of the cornea; it simply changes the curvature of the cornea to improve vision. If there is a need for additional vision correction, glasses, or contact lenses with a new curvature can be prescribed to provide the desired visual acuity.
Can the laser burn other parts of the eye if the patient moves?
No, the Excimer laser used in laser eye surgery does not penetrate or burn the cornea. It works by removing tissue through the process of evaporation. However, it is possible for the laser to unintentionally remove tissue in areas outside of the intended treatment zone, resulting in irregular astigmatism. To prevent this, modern laser systems, such as the Visx Star S4, are equipped with advanced eye-tracking technology called “Active Eye Tracker.” This system automatically tracks and follows the movement of the patient's pupil during the procedure. Additionally, the Visx Star S4 incorporates Iris Registration, which further enhances precision and accuracy.
Are all lasers the same?
All lasers differ in various aspects: Technological development, which is one of the most important factors, as it offers better results and lower risks in general. Price, which is directly related to the technology used in most cases. Technical support and research programs that enable continuous development and improvement of correction techniques. Not all lasers are approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) of the United States. The age of the equipment allows for assessing technological development and evaluating the risk-benefit ratio of surgery.
Are all patients suitable for surgery?
No, not all patients are suitable candidates for refractive surgery with the Excimer Laser. Like any other surgical procedure, there are specific indications and contraindications to consider. While laser surgery can correct various visual defects, there are limiting factors that need to be taken into account, such as the presence of uncontrolled diseases or inadequate corneal thickness. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive preoperative examination, which should include essential assessments such as pachymetry (measurement of corneal thickness) and corneal topography.
Can eye surgery be performed to correct Astigmatism?
Yes, refractive surgery with Excimer Laser corrects Astigmatism, among other refractive errors such as Myopia - Hyperopia. Myopic Astigmatism. Hyperopic Astigmatism. Mixed Astigmatism. Irregular Astigmatism. Presbyopia.
Is there an age limit for surgery?
In general, there is no strict age limit for refractive surgery. The suitability for surgery depends on the stability of the refractive error rather than the specific age of the individual. Individuals under the age of 18 can undergo surgery if their refractive error is stable. Similarly, individuals over the age of 50 can also be candidates for surgery, as long as other potential issues, such as the presence of cataracts or retinal injuries, have been ruled out through proper evaluation.
Yes, refractive surgery with the Excimer Laser can be performed to correct Astigmatism. This surgical procedure is capable of addressing various visual defects, including Astigmatism, as well as Myopia, Hyperopia, Mixed Astigmatism, Irregular Astigmatism, and Presbyopia.
Is laser surgery for visual defects (Myopia, Astigmatism, Hyperopia) relatively new, or is there enough experience?
Refractive surgery with Excimer Laser was patented in 1983 by Dr. Steve Trokel, and the first surgery was performed in 1987 in New Orleans. The first laser arrived in Colombia in 1992.
Is laser surgery for visual defects (Myopia, Astigmatism, Hyperopia, Presbyopia) better than surgery with incisions or radial keratotomy?
Yes, laser surgery is better because it does not weaken the cornea, it is not dependent on healing, and its effects are not affected by external factors such as age or intraocular pressure. Laser surgery also does not have delayed changes like incision-based procedures.
What alternatives do I have if the price prevents me from undergoing surgery?
If, even after considering that the price difference is not significant and exploring all payment and credit options, you find that you cannot afford the cost of the mentioned surgery, it is recommended to avoid undergoing the operation. In the end, the cost could be extremely high and put your vision at risk.
What are the advantages of the latest technology offered in the surgery?
The advantages are multiple and varied. The most important ones are related to the high precision and the fact that the “collaboration” of the patient is not required, as the laser itself is of fundamental importance. This technology does not deteriorate night vision because the treatment is adjusted to the pupil size. Additionally, postoperative recovery is incredibly fast.
What guarantees do I have that the surgery for Astigmatism or any other eye condition will be effective?
In reality, as with any surgery involving human tissue, no surgery can be fully guaranteed. However, what can be guaranteed is that the operation will be performed with the latest technology available in the world, which is crucial for the success of the surgical intervention you will undergo.
How does it benefit me to use Wavefront technology for my surgery?
Wavefront technology is state-of-the-art and has been derived from developments in the field of astronomy. Its importance lies in allowing the precise measurement of visual defects (Myopia, Astigmatism, Hyperopia), eliminating the subjectivity of conventional examinations.
What tests are performed before surgery?
A comprehensive ophthalmological examination, corneal topography, corneal pachymetry (measuring corneal thickness), pupilometry (measurement of pupil size), and evaluation with Wavefront technology.
Will a scalpel be used during my surgery?
A scalpel should NEVER be used. It has been proven that the long-term results of corneal incision-based surgery are unreliable and can be disastrous. Regardless of the type of scalpel used, this kind of surgery has never been approved by the FDA in the United States.
What is the procedure when undergoing surgery at Bogota Laser Ocular Surgery Center?
- Initial evaluation appointment.
- Free initial evaluation to determine candidacy for laser surgery or any other procedures. Includes comprehensive ophthalmological examination, optometric evaluation, and pre-surgical tests.
- Analysis of results by the ophthalmologist.
- Development of a surgical plan.
- Selection of the best surgical method for your case.
- Surgery.
- Payment of operating room fees, including the use of AMO VISX and Intralase.
- Availability of emergency care.
- Follow-up appointments for up to 1 year.
Is the laser equipment they will use for my surgery truly state-of-the-art? How can I verify this?
It is important to gather information about the characteristics of the equipment that will be used for your treatment. We ensure that our laser equipment is state-of-the-art, and we strive to keep it updated. Typically, the equipment should not be more than 6 months old since its last update.