Author: Sheila Miller

Doctor Moosa Answers Some FAQs

We sat down with Orange County LASIK surgeon Dr. Ferzaad Moosa M.D. to get answers on some of the most pressing questions concerning LASIK surgery. Dr. Moosa is a highly experienced LASIK surgeon with over twenty-three years of experience in the niche field. He is the chief surgeon of both the Orange County and Los Angeles branch of Excel Laser Vision Institute.

 

Let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked questions about LASIK and what Dr. Moosa had to say:

• Is LASIK painful?

Although the idea of surgery on your eyes may seem uncomfortable, getting Orange County LASIK is actually a painless procedure for patients. Before you undergo surgery, your surgeon will put numbing eye drops into your eyes. The only part of your body that will be under anesthesia is your eyes. You will be awake for the entire procedure because you will be required to look at a target in the process. The only sensation you may feel would be from brief pressure (about thirty to forty seconds maximum) put on the eyes during the procedure, but you should not experience pain. 

In terms of after care, some patients experience slight discomfort during the first few hours after surgery when the anesthesia eventually wears off. You may feel a stinging sensation. The medical staff will strongly urge you to keep your eyes closed and get some rest during this healing period. 

• Does LASIK wear off?

LASIK is a permanent surgical procedure that corrects a patient’s vision. Some people may experience changes in their vision as they age, about ten or so years after their initial LASIK surgery but that does not mean the effects of LASIK wear off over time. In some cases, a refractive error like astigmatism or presbyopia may emerge years later and require another round of LASIK to correct. Research shows that only about 10-12% of LASIK patients across the country require an additional round of LASIK due to anatomical changes in the eye. 

Lasik eye surgery cost varies from provider to provider but the procedure has become more affordable over the years. Consider LASIK surgery as an investment for your future with benefits that will last you a lifetime. 

• Can LASIK fix my lazy eye?

Amblyopia, more commonly referred to as lazy eye, is a type of reduced vision that occurs in either one eye or very rarely both eyes. The eye wanders inward or outward and the patient cannot control these movements. Unfortunately, LASIK is not designed to correct the muscular structure of the eye. In other words, LASIK does not fix a lazy eye. However, some patients with amblyopia require glasses or contacts as a visual aid. For these patients, LASIK can help strengthen their vision but it cannot change the position of the eye. 

Are you looking for the best LASIK eye surgery in Orange County? You can put your trust in the medical team at Excel Laser Vision Institute who takes vision health very seriously.

• Will LASIK change my eye color?

No, LASIK cannot change the color of your eyes. There is actually no known U.S. medical procedure that can permanently change the color of a patient’s eyes. If you want to change your eye color, the best approach would be to buy colored contact lenses. Make sure to get your colored eye contacts under the supervision of an eye care specialist. 

While it is easy to surf the internet for answers to all your questions, it is best to get your medical insight from an expert like Dr. Moosa, a LASIK surgeon near Placentia, Ca. Call to schedule a consultation today!

Give the Gift of LASIK this Christmas

Christmas is right around the corner, which means now is the time to find a gift that is perfect for your loved one. Finding a meaningful gift for your partner, family member, or friend can be challenging. Has the person you are getting a gift for talked about their interest in getting LASIK but couldn’t afford the cost? If you want to show someone you care this holiday season, give them the gift of Los Angeles LASIK vision correction. The most thoughtful act of kindness you can show a loved one is by helping them improve their quality of life.

 

Make sure your loved one is a qualified candidate for LASIK.

If your loved one is at least 18 years old and wants to be able to see the world with more clarity but they cannot afford LASIK eye surgery costs, why not make it a Christmas gift to them? The reason why we specify the loved one being at least 18 years old is because that is the minimum age that surgeons approve candidates for LASIK surgery. People who are not pregnant or nursing are also qualified candidates so make sure that your loved one passes these criteria. 

 

What makes LASIK a special gift?

How many gifts can you think of that can be used every single day and actually improve the quality of someone’s life? Unlike most other gifts, the gift of LASIK will last a lifetime in a positive and rewarding way. That’s not to say conventional items like clothing, jewelry, or makeup are not worthy gifts– they just do not make the same impact on a person’s life that a surgery like LASIK does. LASIK is a gift like no other. Your loved one will be able to get laser vision correction in Los Angeles, which involves technology designed to target and resolve eye issues such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. The world will look a lot more vibrant to them once they are able to view a unique scenery with clarity and comfort. 

Aside from being a corrective eye surgery, LASIK also eliminates the hassle of wearing glasses or eye contacts. Your loved one will no longer have to constantly keep track of their glasses or clean and store their contacts. 

Want to give your spouse, friend, or relative a unique gift this year? LASIK is certainly a gift that will surprise your loved one in the most wholesome manner.

 

LASIK allows people to lead active lives.

Does the person you are getting a gift for love to play sports? Perhaps they love to run cross-country or play contact sports like football, soccer, and ice hockey. They will be able to fully enjoy sports after LASIK eye surgery. LASIK is a safe procedure for athletes who suffer from refractive vision problems. Most LASIK patients experience 20/20 vision or better after surgery. Your loved one will be able to get competitive in their favorite games without having to switch back and forth between contact lenses and glasses.

LASIK is known for being a surgery with one of the lowest rates of risk and highest rates of patient satisfaction. The procedure is conducted with a computer-guided laser that reshapes a patient’s cornea, allowing for improved vision. If you are worried about your loved one experiencing pain during the surgery, you need not be afraid. LASIK is a painless procedure and only takes approximately thirty minutes to complete. 

Give the gift of Los Angeles LASIK to your loved one to make this Christmas a memorable one! Call Excel Laser Vision Institute, a LASIK center in Encino Ca, at (310) 905-8622 today for more information on LASIK surgery.

How LASIK Can Help Your Career

Regardless of what you do for a living, Orange County LASIK surgery can improve your quality of life and eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses to see. If you are curious to know how LASIK can help your specific career goals, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss five types of career paths and the vision requirements for each one.

 

 

5 Careers with Specific Vision Requirements

Many different types of jobs require workers to have clear vision to perform their duties. While glasses and eye contacts are acceptable aids, they often pose a hindrance. Here are five professionals that are highly encouraged to get LASIK eye surgery:

 

1. Firefighters

As a first responder, you are exposing yourself to fire, water, and harmful contaminants like smoke, debris and fumes on a regular basis. You are putting out fires and rescuing people from emergency situations all while wearing heavy protective gear. You need to be able to see your surroundings clearly and effortlessly in order to perform your duties properly. Visual requirements are set by your local fire department and there is an eye exam that you must pass in order to work.

While you are allowed to wear glasses or contacts to do your job as a firefighter, these visual aids are not ideal. Glasses can create problems when you are on the front line as a firefighter. Your glasses may not fit quite right under your helmet or face shield. Consequently, the frames of your glasses could bend or become crooked. The lenses of your glasses are also likely to fog up when you come in contact with steam, smoke, or water, which is inevitable in your line of work. 

While you may think that contacts would be the next best option, you’ll want to think again. Just like glasses, contacts also pose certain challenges on the job. Contacts can potentially absorb toxic chemicals and put your health in jeopardy. Contacts can also shift, tear, or fall out as you try to perform your duties.

Laser eye surgery cost is worth gaining the convenience and freedom you need to fulfill your responsibilities as a firefighter. Your vision will feel more natural and clear after undergoing refractive surgery.

 

2. Commercial Airline Pilots

Do you fly a commercial plane for a living? Glasses and contacts can be a hassle to deal with when you are on a long flight. The Federal Aviation Administration requires pilots to meet the following criteria:

• Distance visual acuity of 20/20 or better in each eye
• Intermediate visual acuity of 20/40 or better in each eye
• Near visual acuity of 20/40 or better in each eye
• Color vision

The vast majority of patients treated by Orange County LASIK surgeon Dr. Moosa achieve at least 20/20 vision after their surgery. Patients who have mild myopia (nearsightedness) in particular benefit from LASIK.

For most airline pilots, side effects like haziness typically stabilize within three months and night-glare completely diminishes within six months after LASIK. Commercial airlines like American Airlines offer a 6-week healing and stabilization period for pilots getting LASIK surgery. United Airlines is known to require a 12-week healing period after LASIK, but some airlines allow pilots to return to their job as soon as they have fully recovered from LASIK provided that an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) flight-certifies them.

 

3. Astronauts

Astronauts are required to have at least 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time in a jet aircraft as well as 20/20 vision. The policy on vision health is extremely strict. Up until the year 2007, NASA did not even allow people who had corrective eye surgery to become astronauts. After years of research, NASA officials have come to understand that LASIK surgery is indeed safe for astronauts working in space. 

NASA is known to have developed a variety of technological innovations such as artificial limbs, wireless headphones, CAT scans, and home insulation- just to name a few. We can also credit NASA for their part in designing LASIK technology. NASA had developed Eye Tracking Device technology which was made to track astronauts’ eyes while traveling in space and to understand how weightlessness impacts a human’s frame of reference. NASA’s approval of LASIK is the added reassurance you need to know that the procedure has safe and effective standards.

 

4. Professional athletes

Every sport has different visual requirements. Basic eye exams are not enough to assess a competitive athlete’s visual skills. An athlete needs better than 20/20 vision to be able to catch a ball, track a puck on the ice rink, or make moves in a split second. Most professional athletes work with a sports vision optometrist who conducts athlete vision testing. 

We rarely see professional athletes wear glasses while playing a game. The main reason why athletes avoid wearing glasses is for safety in addition to the visual aid being a hindrance. Glasses have a tendency to fog up and cloud under harsh conditions. They also cannot be worn underwater. Most athletes either use contacts or opt for refractive surgery like LASIK. As we mentioned before, contacts have a tendency to fall out or even tear while performing labor-intensive work.

If you are a professional triathlete, your vision needs to be sharp for three different sports: swimming, biking, and running. Transition time is vital. You cannot take time swapping from glasses to contacts in the middle of a triathlon. LASIK is exactly what athletes need to stay on top of your game. 

It is important to note that you would need to be careful when it comes to the initial healing phase right after LASIK when it comes to dangerous combat sports like boxing, wrestling, and martial arts. 

 

5. Lifeguards

A lifeguard on duty at the pool or beach needs to be scanning the water at all times to make sure the general public is safe. You need to have excellent near and far vision. You also need to be ready to jump in the water at a moment’s notice which means you cannot rely on glasses as a visual aid. Swimming with contacts can be risky and lead to an eye infection so that is why LASIK is the next best option. 

Do you work as a lifeguard in Southern California and want to know where to find the best laser eye surgery in Orange County? Consider scheduling a consultation with Excel Laser Vision Institute today. 

Whether or not you work in any of the career fields we discussed, you can feel confident that the LASIK surgery performed in the LASIK center near Yorba Linda is a safe procedure with an effective outcome: clear vision. Clear vision is a vital part of everyday life.

Top Reasons to Get LASIK Los Angeles for Christmas

While we may not get snow in Southern California during the winter, you can tell by the slight chill in the air that Christmas is just around the corner. For many people, the holiday season involves participating in festive events and even getting extra time off work. 

If you wear glasses or contacts and want to get Los Angeles LASIK eye surgery, the time leading up to Christmas is the best time to have your procedure and recover. In this article, we will discuss the top reasons to schedule LASIK surgery during the holidays.

 

 

1. You have a flexible schedule.

The recovery time after LASIK surgery is relatively short, as many patients are able to resume their normal daily habits within a day or two. Many people are still working in either a remote or hybrid environment.  If you can take a little time away from work, you definitely should use your spare time to get laser eye surgery in Los Angeles.

 

2. Makes a great conversation starter.

Christmas is all about reconnecting with your family and sharing updates on everyone’s personal lives. Looking to make the perfect conversation starter at dinner? You can surprise your loved ones with the news that you got LASIK and no longer need glasses or eye contacts to see. That is definitely an exciting update to share with family and friends alike. You may even be able to convince your relatives who wear glasses or contacts to get LASIK for themselves. When they ask you which LASIK eye center near Woodland Hills, Ca you went to for the surgery, you can tell them how smooth your procedure at Excel Laser Vision Institute was.

 

3. Feel ready for holiday pictures.

Do you usually dread the holiday photo-ops? Or what about the annual picture with Santa that you take the kids to at the mall? Getting a picture with Santa can be very tiring and stressful, with long lines and crying children. The last thing you need is a struggle with your glasses constantly sliding down your nose. After LASIK, you will be ready for all the pictures- both planned and candid.

 

4. Feel adventurous for winter activities after LASIK.

There are so many winter activities to be enjoyed during the holiday season: watching the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, putting up your own lights and decorations around the house, sledding in the backyard, skating at the ice rink, and traveling to a resort for skiing and snowboarding– the possibilities are endless. When it comes to high adventure sports like skiing and snowboarding, wearing glasses or contacts can hold you back. Imagine having improved eyesight after LASIK and being able to enjoy winter sports even more!

Do you like to get competitive in sports with your family? When you have athletes in the family, skiing and snowboarding at a California resort can suddenly turn into a mini version of the Winter Olympics. LASIK surgery can help you perform your best. You should not have to worry about your eyes when you are playing sports or doing high-adventure activities. 

Provided that you rest for a day or two after LASIK and consult with your surgeon, you will be able to participate in the winter sports you love so much. Make sure that you wear impact-resistant safety goggles when you ski or snowboard. This gear will protect your eyes from snow, harsh sunlight, wind, and frigid temperatures. You may want to bring eye drops with you just in case your eyes start to feel dry. You want to make sure that you keep your eyes healthy and well-oxygenated while you have fun on the slopes.

Wearing glasses or contacts on a ski trip can be dangerous, especially if you are an amateur at the sport. If you wear glasses, you have to be extra careful to avoid bumps and falls on the slopes. If you wear eye contacts, you may find yourself needing to adjust them. Not only will you no longer have to deal with the hassle of bringing glasses or eye contacts on a ski trip, but you will be able to enjoy the beautiful mountainous scenery with clarity after LASIK treatment. 

 

5. Get ahead of your new year’s resolutions. 

Have you been thinking about making “improved eyesight” one of your top 2023 new year’s resolutions? Get a head-start on your plans by researching LASIK eye surgery costs, patient candidacy requirements then schedule your free consultation at Excel Laser Vision Institute. You will feel a great sense of pride in accomplishing your goals early.

 

Conclusion

Are you searching for the best LASIK eye surgery in Los Angeles? Take advantage of the holiday season by making time to get Los Angeles LASIK. Our appointments tend to fill up fast around this time of year, so schedule a consultation with our team as soon as you can. 

 

LASIK Will Make Getting Back Into Shape Even Easier!

Now that 2022 is coming to a close, you may be considering adopting a more active lifestyle, whether it be jogging on the treadmill, lifting dumbbells, or getting into a particular sport. However, it can be frustrating for those with vision issues to participate in sports like hiking, biking, soccer, or hockey without wearing glasses, or worse, even when wearing them. Corrective eye surgery such as Orange County LASIK can help restore your vision, making it easier and safer to participate in your favorite sports and other recreational activities. 

 

 

When participating in specific sports, you can wear special eyeglasses or contact lenses, but doing so can be quite stressful and expensive. People who wear glasses are already accustomed to the troublesome everyday discomforts that come with them, such as fogging up, breakage risk, discomfort, particularly in hot weather, and replacing them if they are broken or misplaced. When seen in the context of physical activities, these difficulties become a thing of the past.

 

In most cases, wearing glasses while playing contact sports like football, hockey, and rugby is discouraged. Glasses have a lot of potentials to break and fall off. As an alternative, contact lenses might be an appealing option for some, but these come with their own set of challenges.

 

If you insist on wearing glasses while participating in recreational sports, it’s a good idea to be aware of the challenges you may encounter before you can run on a track, swim in the ocean, or hike along a trail, such as:

 

• Numerous visits to the eye doctor.
• Having eyeglasses fitted with polycarbonate lenses that are unbreakable.
• Select unique eyeglasses frames that are appropriate for sports.
• sporting certain non-prescription eyewear or goggles for boardsailing or surfing.
• You must wear supplementary eye protection over your contact lenses if you wear them.

 

In addition to giving you the freedom to participate in the sports you enjoy, corrective eye surgery is intended to enhance your quality of life in general. Farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism can all be corrected with Orange County LASIK eye surgery, grantng you 20/20 vision or better and significantly decreasing or eliminating the need for contact lenses and eyeglasses. The majority of the time, this significant improvement in eyesight is permanent. You will be able to begin to see some of the most majestic sights the world has to offer with your very own eyes unlike ever before.

 

Of course, it is sensible to wonder about the cost of laser eye surgery before making any type of significant investment. Although contact lenses and spectacles may initially seem less expensive, the overall cost of these items can accumulate to over hundreds of dollars every year. And for many, this is usually a one-time cost that will never expire!

 

Our LASIK center near La Habra provides financing for Orange County LASIK and we’d be pleased to go over all of your options with you. Don’t let blurry vision prevent you from engaging in the physical activities you enjoy—start seeing clearly with the assistance of our Orange County LASIK surgeon, Doctor Moosa!

 

 

Life After Undergoing LASIK Can Make Winter Activities More Fun!

When you live in places like Los Angeles or Orange County, you probably do not expect to spend winter break doing traditional activities associated with this time of year. However, plan on traveling to a destination with a colder climate for the holidays. You will find a variety of benefits to Los Angeles LASIK the next time you see yourself walking in a winter wonderland.

 

 

You Can Learn All About The Benefits of LASIK This Winter Right Here:

 

See the snow and its obstacles with clarity.

With Los Angeles laser eye surgery, you won’t just do away with the pesky contact lenses, but you’ll also be able to take in the surroundings more clearly than ever! You will be able to go skiing, snowboard, and build a snowman without worrying about your glasses falling off ever again!

 

No more dry eyes.

Dry eye is a serious, not to mention an irritating problem – and it is unfortunately prevalent in winter. During this time of the year, symptoms make it more challenging to put your contact lenses in properly. With the aid of our Harvard-educated physician at our esteemed LASIK center near Van Nuys, you can say kiss those dry eyes goodbye for good!

 

An extended opportunity to relax while you recover.

In the winter, many workers get time off work for vacations and holidays for a chance to unwind from the stress they’ve accumulated all year long. You can use this opportunity to invest in the cost of laser eye surgery to have the space and time necessary for your eyes to recover fully.

 

You can rest easy knowing that the recovery period following LASIK eye surgery is relatively brief, so you won’t necessarily need to ask for more time off from work. Even so, it’s a good idea to plan this treatment for when you will have time off from work in case there are any further issues or procedures that turn out to be required.

 

Start the New Year with clear vision.

Another justification for investing in LASIK is your tax refund has arrived. It is simpler to justify a significant expense, like a procedure or surgery, when you know exactly how much money will come your way. Good eyesight is critical in most jobs, but if you are a professional driver, a policeman, or a pilot, there is a good chance you will be able to write off LASIK as a tax-deductible before 2023 rings in!

 

Visit Excel Eye Laser Institute Today!

It’s no surprise that vision makes daily life more difficult. You will find it more and more challenging to complete simple chores as your eyesight deteriorates as you age. Investing in Los Angeles LASIK surgery is the most efficient way to enhance your vision with virtually any pain or recovery time. Not to mention, you will save money on eyecare in the long run. Our Los Angeles LASIK surgeon works hard all year long for his patients. Go ahead and schedule your consultation appointment before the holidays are here. Our highly inept staff members will be more than happy to help you!

 

Swimming After LASIK

In Southern California, swimming at the beach or in the pool is a favorite activity that can be enjoyed at any time of year. That is why a common question asked among Los Angeles LASIK patients is when it’s safe for them to take a dip once again following their procedure. Even though LASIK is widely known for its quick recovery time, swimming is one of the activities you will need to avoid for a while following your surgery. As one of Los Angeles’ top laser eye surgeons, we want to ensure you understand the risks of doing so before you are ready. 

 

 

Swimming After LASIK

Even though the summer is long gone, we have the privilege of living in a warmer climate where you can have fun in the sun, even on Christmas Day! With that being said, you will still be required to carefully plan your journey if you consider treading water following LASIK. We recommend waiting at least 1 week after undergoing Los Angeles laser eye surgery before diving back into a pool or any body of water. However, if you are big on hot tubs, you can start enjoying it again a little sooner – an estimated three to five days after LASIK. If you are planning to go on vacation for the holidays, consider scheduling your surgery after you return. By doing this, you’ll avoid rushing into any activities that might hinder your recovery.

 

When the time comes, be sure to put your goggles on!

Any water, whether it contains salt from ocean water, chlorine, bacteria, or both, can irritate or even infect your eyes. Therefore, for 4 weeks following your LASIK treatment, you will need to wear swimming goggles to protect them. While natural bodies of water may not contain chlorine like pools do, it is still advisable to keep the protective wear on if you plan on swimming in the sea or in a river.

 

What about taking a shower?

You should to take a shower or a bath 24 hours after your LASIK surgery. Even if you want to take a quick soak in the tub without getting your hair wet, we advise against this before the first day has concluded. Avoid washing your face, as well.

 

Post-LASIK Procedure Appointment

Most crucial, schedule a consultation with Dr. Moosa before swimming. Before returning to the beach or the pool, you should get advice from your doctor, who can only precisely heal how your eyes are recovering from your Los Angeles LASIK treatment. Although LASIK has an incredibly high success rate, we must ensure that your everyday activities won’t be hindered by any potential obstacles that may come your way! 

 

Swimming is just one of the many activities that have significantly improved since having LASIK! That is unquestionably a great incentive to schedule a complimentary consultation appointment with our Los Angeles LASIK eye surgeon! Call Excel Eye right away to make your FREE appointment for a free consultation! Your queries concerning the operation, including those about your eligibility or the best way to cover the cost of laser eye surgery, can be answered by your trusted LASIK center near Sherman Ooks – Excel Laser Vision Institute!

 

Can You Use FSA or HSA for LASIK in Orange County?

Are you wondering if you can use your FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HSA (Health Savings Account) to help with the cost of LASIK in Orange County? As the year 2022 wraps up, the IRS has made a statement about the contribution limits for FSA and HSA in the tax year 2023. In this article, we will focus on the ways that you can access these accounts to pay for a LASIK procedure.

 

 

HSA and FSA are popular ways to pay for LASIK near Placentia

Do you want to improve your vision but are worried about LASIK eye surgery cost? FSAs and HSAs can help you cover some or all of the cost of LASIK surgery. The 2023 limits for pre-tax contributions to the HSA and FSA accounts have increased to help people cope with inflation. To be more specific, you can put $3,050 in a healthcare FSA account, which is $200 more than the 2022 limit. Depending on where you work, your employer could also contribute to your FSA. As for HSA, individuals can set aside up to $3,850 and $7,750 for families starting in 2023.

 

How Does an FSA Work?

The primary benefit of FSA is that the full amount of your annual contribution election is available to you regardless of whether or not you have made all the pre-tax deductions for the year (ending December 31st). Keep in mind that if you do not use the full amount before the end of the year, you could potentially lose the balance.

 

Can You Use FSA for LASIK in Orange County?

While the IRS has restrictions on procedures that can or cannot be covered by FSA funds, you absolutely can use an FSA for laser vision correction in Orange County, such as LASIK, SMILE, PRK, and other procedures.

 

How Does an HSA Work?

With HSA, you can save pre-tax dollars through payroll deductions. You need to be enrolled in a high-deductible health care policy in order to qualify for an HSA.

HSA differs from FSA in that contributions need to be deposited in the HSA before you can spend money on eligible expenses. You also don’t risk losing your funds if you don’t use them by a certain time. You can allow your funds to grow until you feel ready to spend them.

 

Can You Use HSA for LASIK in Orange County?

Indeed, you can use HSA for LASIK or any other type of corrective eye surgery. As we mentioned before, the IRS does restrict what types of procedures can be covered by an HSA, but LASIK, SMILE, and PRK qualify.

It is important to note that if your place of work offers an FSA program, you can use it along with your HSA to fund your LASIK surgery.

 

Make a Concrete Plan

Make sure to financially plan ahead for LASIK in Orange County. Whether you use an FSA or HSA account, both can help pay a significant portion of your LASIK surgery pre-tax. Just be conscious of the contribution limits, and the restrictions of your own health care policy, and see if your employer can offer you an HSA.

Read the related article here: https://www.exceleye.com/2020/12/07/can-you-use-hsa-or-fsa-for-lasik-surgery/

LASIK Came into Existence Thanks to a Thanksgiving Turkey?!

The widespread use of Los Angeles LASIK eye surgery transformed the field of optical care in the late 1990s. Due to the exquisite precision of the lasers utilized in these treatments, the highly high-precision surgery delivers surprisingly minimal occurrences of adverse side effects when compared to other optical surgeries. Various laser-assisted surgical techniques for vision correction have been invented since the use of lasers to etch and otherwise modify living tissue was first discovered in IBM research facilities in the early 1980s.

 

 

So what does this have to do with the popular holiday we are all looking forward to this month? It all began on Thanksgiving Day in 1981, when Dr. Rangaswamy Srinivasan was eating dinner with his family when he had the fantastic idea that the ideal test subject would be a piece of leftover bone with cartilage. No test subject the committee had explored up to that point—from goldfish tails to hamburger meat from the IBM cafeteria—seemed particularly plausible. The smoothness and firmness of the cartilage would make it simpler to read the experiment results. The cartilage and other tissues linked to the turkey bone might mimic the physical structure of human tissue.

 

The scientists used an argon fluoride (ArF) excimer laser on the turkey’s cartilage on November 27, 1981, to leave a clear imprint that could be seen under an optical microscope. The team’s understanding of the number of laser pulses needed to cut, the amount of energy given by the laser beam, and the effects of the laser on surrounding tissues improved when they conducted additional tests on the cartilage.

 

Before anyone could even argue about the wishbone, Srinivasan bogarted the turkey and brought it back to the lab the next day. Then, using an experimental ArF excimer laser, Srinivasan and his team assaulted the bird with 10-nanosecond light pulses. Future studies are approved when analysis shows that the laser operated brilliantly, harming none of the tissue around the bird. 

 

The team subsequently intensified their experiments to test the laser’s capabilities on human tissue and a cadaver aorta. Eventually, they submitted a patent application for the new laser that may replace a scalpel. Over 30 million people would benefit from enhanced laser-corrected vision thanks to the technological advancements made by Srinivasan, Wynne, and another colleague, Samuel Blum, during the next two decades.

 

At Excel Eye, we are thankful for our patients.

While using prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses can temporarily improve deteriorating vision, it is worthwhile to consult a Los Angeles LASIK surgeon to learn about more practical and long-lasting options. A cutting-edge technique that can help people regain their vision is undergoing eye surgery at a LASIK center near Van Nuys, CA. It has a remarkably high success rate. The long-term advantages of laser eye surgery may lessen the symptoms of poor self-confidence and transform your quality of life.

 

If you think LASIK in Los Angeles is the vision correction procedure for you especially this autumn, don’t be afraid to get in touch with the Excel Laser Vision Institute. Our ophthalmologists can advise you on your options for financing for the cost of your laser eye surgery.

Benefits of LASIK for Airline Pilots

Vision is something we tend to take for granted in our everyday lives. It’s not something that really affects us. If we start having vision problems, we can easily just get eyeglasses, contact lenses, or LASIK eye surgery, and things will be right as rain again.

However, some occupations have strict requirements when it comes to vision. For example, you’re not exactly the best lifeguard around if you can’t even see a person drowning from a distance. And surgeons and paramedics need steady vision as well as steady hands to save the lives of their patients.

Another one of these occupations is that of an airline pilot. These people need to have excellent vision to safely navigate through the skies. They need to have great spatial intelligence to safely transport people from one point to another. In fact, many airline pilots have to go through arduous vision tests before even being granted a license!

 

 

What are Vision Requirements for Pilots?

 

Vision requirements will depend on what kind of pilot you are. Military pilots, in general, tend to have stricter rules for vision acuity. For example, Air Force pilots need uncorrected near visual acuity of 20/30 or better, uncorrected distance visual acuity of 20/70 or better, and corrected distance visual acuity of 20/20 or better. Plus, they need to have normal color vision and minimal chronic eye conditions such as astigmatism.

Additionally, you will be disqualified from certain roles in the Air Force if you do not fit the vision requirements, even with perfect corrected vision. It might seem sad, but having a perfect vision can make all the difference between life and death on the battlefield.

Airline pilots, on the other hand, get more leeway. You need to have distance visual acuity of 20/20 or better, corrected or uncorrected; intermediate visual acuity of 20/40 or better, corrected or uncorrected; near visual acuity of 20/40, corrected or uncorrected; satisfactory color vision.

And, unlike the Air Force, having corrective gadgets or getting the best LASIK eye surgery won’t disqualify you from the position.

 

Can Airline Pilots Get LASIK?

 

Sure, you can! In fact, many patients at our LASIK eye clinic near Anaheim have either been airline pilots or aspiring airline pilots. As you can see in the section above, as long as you meet the minimal vision requirements, whether corrected or uncorrected, you can become an airline pilot.

And, while eyeglasses or contacts have become more acceptable as of late, you should still consider getting LASIK. There are many good reasons why!

Firstly, you’ll get the perfect vision for years to come. Say goodbye to eyeglasses or contact lenses for the next few decades. Secondly, having freedom from eyeglasses or contact lenses is just much better when you’re flying—you won’t have to worry about contact lens hygiene on long-distance flights or clean eyeglasses when you’re trying to find the runway.

Lastly, it’ll be cheaper in the long run. LASIK is a one-time investment while eyeglasses and contact lenses are ongoing.

 

How Can I Get LASIK?

 

Well, the first thing you’ll need to do is find a LASIK eye professional. This person should preferably have lots of experience in the field—the more successful surgeries they’ve performed, the better equipped they are to perform your surgery! They should also have the latest technology on hand—LASIK is an ever-changing field that needs top-of-the-line equipment to perform the best surgeries possible.

Besides finding a good LASIK eye surgeon, you need to be qualified for corrective eye surgery. You’ll need to be at least 18 years old or older, have a stable prescription for at least two years, be free of eye conditions that can hinder recovery, like dry eye syndrome, and have a thick cornea. So, before you jump the gun and get surgery, it’s important to learn as much as you can about the procedure.

Just remember that if you do plan on taking LASIK before applying as an airline pilot that airlines require a few months’ recovery and stabilization. Continental Airlines, for example, requires a six-week healing period, while American Airlines requires twelve. Please check the requirements before applying!

 

Benefits Of LASIK Eye Surgery for Aviators

For aspiring pilots, the dream of navigating the skies often goes hand-in-hand with the desire for perfect vision. While corrective lenses can be effective, LASIK eye surgery offers a unique advantage – the freedom from glasses and contacts that can significantly enhance your piloting experience and potentially boost your career prospects. Here’s why LASIK in Los Angeles is a compelling option for aspiring aviators:

Uncompromised Vision for Critical Tasks

A pilot’s job demands exceptional visual acuity. Clear vision is paramount for safe and efficient flight operations, from scanning instrument panels to spotting distant landmarks during navigation. LASIK corrects common refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, leading to sharper, more precise vision. This translates to quicker reaction times, improved depth perception, and a clearer view of critical flight data.

Enhanced Situational Awareness

Pilots rely heavily on situational awareness – the ability to perceive and understand everything happening in their environment. Glasses or contacts can create blind spots or become fogged at inopportune moments, potentially hindering situational awareness. LASIK in Los Angeles eliminates these concerns, allowing pilots to maintain a clear and unobstructed view of the entire cockpit and surrounding airspace. This heightened awareness is crucial for making quick decisions and responding effectively to unexpected situations.

Freedom from Limitations During Flight

Traditional corrective lenses come with limitations during flight. Glasses can slip or fog up due to altitude changes, while contact lenses can dry out or become dislodged, causing discomfort and potentially impacting vision. LASIK removes these worries, enabling pilots to focus solely on the task without the distractions or inconveniences associated with corrective lenses.

Increased Safety and Reduced Risk

Any factor that compromises a pilot’s vision can elevate safety risks. Glasses that fall off during turbulence or contact lenses that dry out during a long flight can create potentially dangerous situations. LASIK minimizes these risks by providing a permanent solution for clear vision, enhancing overall flight safety, and reducing the chance of incidents related to vision impairment.

Meeting Airline Vision Requirements

While vision requirements vary slightly between airlines, most have strict standards for pilots. These standards often involve uncorrected visual acuity within a specific range. LASIK in Los Angeles can help aspiring pilots meet these requirements by correcting vision problems and eliminating the need for corrective lenses. This opens doors to a broader range of piloting opportunities across various airlines.

Improved Comfort and Focus

Piloting can be a demanding profession, both physically and mentally. Wearing glasses or contacts for extended periods can lead to discomfort, headaches, and eye strain. LASIK eliminates these issues, allowing pilots to focus solely on flying without the distraction of uncomfortable lenses. This can significantly enhance comfort and mental clarity during long flights, improving performance and making the experience more enjoyable.

Long-Term Investment in Your Career

LASIK is a one-time investment that can positively impact your entire piloting career. The freedom from glasses and contacts improves your flying experience and demonstrates your commitment to your vision health, which can be a valuable asset in a competitive field like aviation.

Making the Decision: Consult an Ophthalmologist

LASIK is a safe and effective procedure for many people, but it’s crucial to consult a qualified ophthalmologist to determine your candidacy. They can assess your eye health, discuss your piloting aspirations, and determine if LASIK in Los Angeles is right for you.

Conclusion

By choosing LASIK, aspiring pilots can take a significant step towards achieving their dream of soaring through the skies with exceptional vision and peace of mind. The benefits of this procedure go beyond convenience, potentially enhancing your safety, career prospects, and overall flying experience.

So, contact a LASIK eye professional today to see what the procedure can do for you as an airline pilot or any other career that requires perfect vision.  Luckily for you, many LASIK eye clinics, such as the Excel Laser Vision Institute in Orange County, offer free consultations. Here, you can ask as many questions as you can and get expert advice from board-certified surgeons such as Dr. Ferzaad Moosa.

You can reach Excel Laser Vision Institute by calling (310) 905-8622 or filling out an online form here.