Info Articles

Why You Should Consider Getting LASIK This Spring/Summer

We’re in the thick of spring. The birds are chirping, the sun is shining, and more people are getting their vaccines! What better time to look into getting LASIK in Los Angeles? For many people, this coming summer represents a much-needed sigh of relief. Finally, families can rest assured that their loved ones are protected and enjoy public activities again.

Here Are Some Of Our Top Reasons For Considering Laser Eye Surgery This Spring or Summer: 

Enjoy Stylish and Convenient Eye Protection

Are you tired of wearing that one pair of prescription sunglasses that you own? Don’t want to worry about putting in contacts when you’re at the beach? With 20/20 vision, you won’t have to rely on corrective lenses to enjoy your time in the sunshine. Prescription glasses can be an expensive purchase (and also vulnerable to activities like biking, volleyball, and swimming). Enjoy your vacation and protect your vision without worrying about losing your one pair of prescription sunglasses. 

Swim Freely 

Taking a dip in the pool when it’s hot out can be just the thing for a summer day! Unfortunately, for those who wear glasses or contacts, swimming can be a huge challenge. If you take off your prescription lenses to swim, then you won’t be able to see! Those who wear contacts may fear losing their invisible lenses in the pool or contaminating them with chlorine. This can lead to costly replacements or even an eye infection! When you achieve your vision goals through LASIK, you can swim freely with peace of mind. 

Avoid Accidents

When the weather is warmer, many people like to get outside and do something active, whether that be exercising or playing sports. Glasses or contacts can be a hindrance to these kinds of spring and summer activities. Perspiration and heat can cause fogging, streaks, and other visual barriers for those who wear glasses. Meanwhile, those who wear contacts run the constant risk of developing an infection from dirt, dust, and other outside particles that attach to the lenses. With a clear vision, you won’t have to worry about losing or damaging your only vision source. 

Mitigate Allergies

During spring and summer, there may be a greater concentration of pollen in the air. This can be difficult for those who experience eye irritation with their seasonal allergies. Contact lenses can exacerbate the situation by trapping dirt and pollen or drying out. Even wearing glasses can be a hassle when your eyes are red, itchy, swollen, and dry. Visit Excel Laser Vision Institute, a LASIK eye center in Los Angeles, to learn how laser eye surgery might improve your seasonal allergies over the long term. 

Savor Spring and Summer

It finally feels like we’re reaching the light at the end of the tunnel! Celebrate this time with a life-changing procedure. LASIK has helped many people achieve their vision goals and improve their overall quality of life. Schedule your free LASIK consultation at Excel Laser Vision Institute. Our team of skilled eye care professionals will determine whether you are an eligible candidate for laser eye surgery and will jumpstart the process so you can savor the days ahead with clear vision. 

 

10 Spring Activities You Can Enjoy After LASIK

After learning about the benefits of LASIK and why it’s a great choice for vision correction this spring, you may be eager to explore all the activities you can enjoy with your newfound visual freedom. LASIK can transform your daily life, especially during the vibrant spring season when outdoor adventures beckon. In this article, we’ll explore ten exciting spring activities that are even more enjoyable after LASIK, allowing you to fully embrace the beauty of the season with clear, unencumbered vision.

 

Hiking Adventures

Springtime heralds the awakening of nature, with blossoming flowers and verdant landscapes beckoning outdoor enthusiasts to explore. With clear vision post-LASIK, hiking becomes an even more immersive experience as you traverse winding trails, drink in panoramic vistas, and marvel at the intricate beauty of blooming flora.

 

Cycling Escapades

Feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you pedal through scenic routes without the hindrance of glasses or the discomfort of contacts. LASIK provides cyclists with enhanced visual clarity, allowing them to confidently navigate the terrain and soak in the sights and sounds of spring’s symphony.

 

Picnics in the Park

Bask in the warm embrace of spring by organizing picnics in lush, sun-kissed parks. With improved vision post-LASIK, you can admire the vibrant tapestry of nature, indulge in delectable treats, and engage in leisurely activities like frisbee or kite flying with friends and family.

 

Photography Expeditions

Capture the essence of spring in all its glory through the lens of a camera. LASIK surgery ensures crisp, clear vision, enabling budding photographers to immortalize the beauty of blossoms, chirping birds, and cascading waterfalls with unparalleled precision and clarity.

 

Outdoor Yoga Sessions

Embrace serenity and mindfulness amidst nature’s embrace with outdoor yoga sessions. LASIK eliminates the need for glasses or contacts during practice, allowing yogis to focus on breathing, balance, and alignment without visual distractions, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.

 

Birdwatching Excursions

Spring is synonymous with the melodious chirping of birds as they herald the arrival of warmer days. LASIK recipients can now partake in birdwatching expeditions with unobstructed vision, spotting feathered friends perched on branches or soaring across azure skies with newfound clarity and precision.

 

Al Fresco Dining

Savor spring flavors by dining al fresco at quaint cafes or charming eateries in picturesque locales. LASIK ensures uninterrupted enjoyment of culinary delights, allowing food enthusiasts to relish every bite and sip without the inconvenience of glasses fogging up or contacts drying out.

 

Stargazing Nights

As the days grow longer and the nights warmer, embark on stargazing escapades to marvel at the celestial wonders above. LASIK recipients can now gaze upon the cosmos with unparalleled clarity, tracing the constellations and counting shooting stars against velvety darkness.

 

Artistic Pursuits

Unleash your creativity with air painting or sketching sessions amidst nature’s canvas. LASIK surgery empowers artists to capture the essence of spring’s beauty with precision and detail, immersing themselves in the creative process without the constraints of corrective eyewear.

 

Festivals and Fairs

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of spring by attending outdoor festivals, fairs, and cultural celebrations. LASIK ensures optimal visual acuity, allowing revelers to soak in the vibrant ambiance, indulge in culinary delights, and partake in exhilarating activities with unmatched clarity and comfort.

 

Conclusion

Spring is a season of new beginnings and vibrant transformations, making it the perfect time to consider LASIK and embrace a life of visual freedom. With Excel Laser Vision Institute, you can trust in the expertise of Dr. Moosa and the state-of-the-art technology available for your LASIK procedure. Say goodbye to the hassles of glasses and contacts and hello to a world of clear vision and endless possibilities. Whether you’re enjoying the beauty of blooming flowers or embarking on outdoor adventures, LASIK can enhance your spring experience and beyond. Experience the joy of clear vision this spring with LASIK from Excel Laser Vision Institute.

The Effects of a Concussion on the Eyes

Concussions are defined as traumatic brain injuries. The word “concussion” comes from the Latin root “concutere” which means “shake” or “dash together.” When the brain hits the inner walls of a person’s skull, this can cause serious symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, headaches, ringing in one’s ears, amnesia, dizziness, and confusion. A brain is a powerful tool that, when damaged, can affect every aspect of the body. According to experts at Excel Laser Vision Institute, a LASIK clinic in Orange County, concussions can also affect your eye health. 

While many people lose consciousness after suffering a concussion, this is not always the case. In fact, symptoms can appear much later from the time of the concussion, which can make them difficult to self-diagnose. These are some of the symptoms that might arise directly after an injury or a few days after:

• Loss of balance
• Irritability
• Dazed look
• Change in sleeping or eating habits
• Lack of interest in things
• Excessive crying 
• Vomiting
• Seizures 

While concussions can be hard to identify, Orange County LASIK experts say that the eyes can be a great tool for diagnosing head trauma. The King-Devick test is a test that eye doctors may use to track eye movements, visual interpretation, and attention. There are also some apps that are being developed to measure a patient’s pupil in reaction to light in order to diagnose concussions. Concussions will not normally show up on MRIs or CT scans which is why it is so important to have other methods for measuring them. 

Patients interested in getting LASIK eye surgery should be aware that concussion symptoms can often mirror other vision problems. This is known as Post-Traumatic Vision Syndrome. Some of these symptoms include:

• Difficulty reading (losing one’s place)
• Light sensitivity
• Blurry vision
• Difficulty focusing
• Loss of peripheral vision
• Frequent headaches 
• Double vision
• Difficulty moving eyes

Concussions can do more than affect your vision. They also pose a risk to your general eye health. Consult your eye doctor if you have recently suffered a concussion so that they can evaluate your eyes. These are the more serious effects that a concussion can have on your eyes: 

• Optic nerve damage: The pressure from a concussion can lead to partial or total loss of vision. 
• Retinal detachment: The impact of a concussion can cause the retina to detach from the eye. This requires immediate surgery. 
• Vitreous hemorrhage: A concussion may cause blood vessels to leak into the vitreous humor which can cause floaters, blurred vision, a red tint and other symptoms. Medicine may be required to help the healing process. 

Before returning to normal activities after suffering a head injury, it is important to get a doctor’s opinion. This is to prevent a second, more damaging head injury that may jeopardize the healing process entirely. The most common treatments for a concussion are rest and pain management. It can take up to a few weeks to fully recover, depending on the severity of the head injury. For more information on concussions and eye health, consult a medical professional. 

If you are tired of dealing with blurry vision, contact Excel Laser Vision Institute at (877) 963-4238 for a free LASIK consultation. We are a highly-regarded eye care clinic that offers the best laser eye surgery in Orange County and Los Angeles. 

LASIK Experts Evaluate the Safety of VR Headsets

LASIK experts in Orange County such as those at Excel Laser Vision Institute have observed that, with more time inside, people have been increasing their daily screen time. All day, people are working from home on their computer or laptop and then taking breaks by looking at their phone or watching TV. We live in a world of screens. For many people, it’s their main source of productivity and entertainment. It’s no wonder that our screens are getting more and more technologically complex. The invention of virtual reality (VR) headsets is proof of this. 

According to Doctor Moosa, a LASIK surgeon in Orange County, too much screen time can be hard on our eyes. It can cause eye strain, fatigue, and dry eye. This is the main reason why eye doctors will recommend taking regular breaks and blinking often when using a digital device. So, how does this translate to VR headsets? Virtual reality has been around for a long time but it has become a commercial success only recently. Since 2020 began, about 71% of Americans started using VR headsets more. As a more immersive digital device, some consumers are wondering if VR is more damaging to our vision than our normal screens. Will everybody be needing LASIK eye surgery after consistently playing with virtual reality? The answer is not cut and dried.

VR headsets can simulate a 360 degree experience that immerses the user in a new world. Instead of looking at a flat screen, the user wears goggles that are constructed with different displays. Each display is given a separate video feed that seamlessly transitions into the next. This presents the illusion of being in a new, 3D environment. Virtual reality can offer a fun, interactive experience for working out, gaming, or simulating adventure. However, it can also affect our bodies. Some users report feeling overwhelmed and nauseous by the VR perspective. This is known as cybersickness.

In terms of affecting vision, Orange County LASIK experts say that VR does not pose a significant danger to our eye health. However, like anything, it requires moderation. VR participants may experience digital eye strain because of decreased blinking. This can lead to dry eye and fatigue, much like with normal screens. The best way to avoid these symptoms is to take frequent breaks and focus our eyes on things in the real world. 

Another thing to keep in mind with VR headsets is that they can affect people with strabismus (wandering eye) or amblyopia (lazy eye). With these conditions, the 3D effects of virtual reality may not be as striking. Plus, using VR with these conditions may lead to greater eye fatigue due to the lack of depth perception. Users who wear glasses may also run into some issues when using VR headsets. Not all headsets are built to accommodate glasses and thus may be uncomfortable for the user. Unfortunately, VR has not been constructed to accommodate the user’s vision needs. So, if they are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism, they are still required to wear their prescription to enjoy the experience. 

If you have a refractive error and would like to enjoy VR without contacts or glasses, then schedule a consultation at Excel Laser Vision Institute. We can discuss laser eye surgery, one of the most innovative vision correction alternatives on the market. Achieve your vision goals with us today! 

LASIK Experts Discuss What Shingles Does to the Eyes

Some of us may be familiar with the viral infection known as shingles. It’s often referred to as “chickenpox for adults.” However, many people don’t know that shingles (otherwise known as herpes zoster) can affect eye health. According to LASIK experts in Orange County, the viral infection can lead to eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and scarring of the cornea.

The reason that shingles is likened to chickenpox is because both infections are caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This virus can actually remain dormant in a person’s body. If, for example, someone had and recovered from chickenpox as a child, then that virus may be reactivated as shingles later in life. Experts who perform laser eye surgery in Orange County say that shingles affects about 1 in 3 Americans each year. 

For the most part, shingles affects people later in life. Usually, after age 50. Medical experts believe that the natural decline in a person’s immune system is one of the reasons the virus becomes activated. When your immune system weakens over time, it may not be able to recognize certain viruses or know how to attack them. Other conditions that affect your chances of developing shingles include auto-immune diseases, HIV, and cancer. If you are taking steroids, transplant medications, or chemotherapy drugs, you may also be susceptible to the virus. 

Shingles manifests in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most common symptoms that you might notice:

• Burning, tingling, or numb skin
• Skin sensitivity
• Painful rashes 
• Fever and chills
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Upset stomach
• Fluid-filled blisters
• Mild itching 

According to Doctor Moosa, a LASIK surgeon in Orange County, 10-20% of people who get shingles can also develop ophthalmic herpes zoster, which is shingles around the eyes. This can lead to cataracts, corneal scarring, glaucoma, and vision loss. If left untreated, the virus can affect the nerves of the eye, causing symptoms such as:

• Dry eye
• Blurry vision
• Redness/rashes in and around the eye
• Face tingling
• Pink eye 
• Throbbing pain
• Light sensitivity
• Optic nerve swelling

Fortunately, there are some treatments available to those with ophthalmic herpes zoster. Antiviral medications  may be given within the first 72 hours of a patient showing symptoms. Numbing medicine or cream may help relieve uncomfortable symptoms. Painkillers may also be given to relieve the patient, although they will not stop the infection itself. Hydrating eye drops, cooling compresses, and anti-bacterial eye drops will help target symptoms affecting the eye. 

If shingles have affected your eyes, then you may require procedures such as cataract surgery from a LASIK clinic. Be sure to contact your eye doctor in Orange County such as Doctor Moosa immediately after noticing symptoms. The eyes are a sensitive part of the body, which means that they require excellent care and attention. The effects of shingles may last a long time if your eyes are having a hard time healing. Follow the care routine set in place by your doctor and schedule regular checkups to track your progress. Shingles typically last 2-4 weeks and, while it is possible to get it more than once, most people don’t. 

How Hormones Affect Vision and LASIK

Hormones are responsible for many processes in our body, including growth, metabolism, and even vision. As we age and go through bodily changes like pregnancy, our hormones can shift slightly, altering the quality of our eye sight. It’s no wonder that prospective patients for LASIK are examined closely and consulted on any current physical conditions before their surgeon will move forward with the procedure.

Different kinds of hormones carry out different functions in our body. When levels are unbalanced due to pregnancy or other conditions, this can affect a patient’s natural prescription. Those who are interested in laser vision correction in Los Angeles will be vetted thoroughly to ensure that hormonal imbalance, among other things, is not an issue. Here are some of the critical hormones that can affect our state of vision:

• Testosterone
• Progesterone
• Estrogen
• Insulin
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone 
• Thyroid hormones: tetraiodothyronine and triiodothyronine 

Hormonal changes may happen as a result of age, such as menopause, or from a condition such as diabetes. People may experience slight or drastic changes in their hormones that affect their vision through a variety of life events. Here are some of them: 

• During puberty, Gonadotropin-releasing hormone travels to the pituitary gland and begins the release of other hormones. Pre-teens may experience growth spurts that temporarily change the shape of their eyeball, which can cause nearsightedness. Patients must be at least 18 years of age to get LASIK in Los  Angeles, which helps eliminate the risk of hormonal imbalance from this stage of maturation. 

• During pregnancy, fluctuations in progesterone and estrogen can affect the glands of the eyelids and eyes. This may cause symptoms of irritation such as dry eye. Estrogen may also change the shape of the cornea, which can cause a temporary vision impairment. Usually, this is reversed after pregnancy, which is why doctors suggest waiting for hormones to rebalance before getting your corrective eye surgery. 

• During menopause, eyes may become drier and less elastic as a result of a decrease in estrogen. This can lead to a more serious case of dry eye or even blurred vision. Women who have reached menopause may also have a higher level of intraocular pressure that could increase their chances of developing glaucoma. Eye care is especially crucial during this time of life to preserve vision and health. 

• Middle-aged men may experience a drop in testosterone levels, which can lead to blurred vision and dry eye. This hormonal shift is similar to the stage of menopause for women. Men who are experiencing issues with creating moisture in their tear ducts should seek out an eye care professional for an expert opinion. 

• Anyone with excessively low or excessively high thyroid hormones will also experience vision changes. High levels of the T4 hormone can actually increase a patient’s risk of age-related macular degeneration. Thyroid hormones can also affect the cells responsible for color vision. 

• Anyone with diabetes may notice excessive dry eye as a result of low insulin levels. This affects both type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients. If you are interested in getting laser eye surgery and have diabetes, then you should definitely consult an expert on your condition. Some patients may not be eligible for LASIK, but may qualify for an alternative refractive surgery. 

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in LASIK

Our world is no stranger to artificial intelligence. Technology like Siri, face recognition, and geo targeted ads are perfect examples of how artificial intelligence has been slowly integrated into our day-to-day life. AI can do more than entertain. It provides convenience, security, and precision. For that reason, it has proven to be a valuable asset in the healthcare world, specifically for eye care procedures like LASIK.

By definition, artificial intelligence is a form of technology that mimics human behavior and thought-processes. AI can “learn” much like humans by sifting through the given data while following its programmed course. In the healthcare system, AI is used to analyze medical imaging. Technology has advanced so that artificial intelligence can now detect certain skin and lung cancers as well as tuberculosis from x-rays.

Ophthalmologists who perform laser eye surgery in Los Angeles say that artificial intelligence has played a part in preventing blindness. AI can be applied to optical coherence tomography and visual fields as well as fundus photographs to identify diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and other health issues in the eye. Here are some more examples of artificial intelligence being used in eye care: 

• One British AI company is working with a hospital in London to identify the development of exudative age-related macular degeneration. 
• Researchers at a specialty hospital in New York have created an algorithm for AI to identify age-related macular degeneration in patients. This solution is both convenient and inexpensive, given that the required technology is basic. 
• One Dutch-American retinal specialist created the first autonomous diagnosis system for diabetic retinopathy, which was approved for use in the U.S. in 2018. 

As you can see, artificial intelligence is slowly transforming the world we live in through bettering healthcare practices. In the world of eye care, AI is particularly useful for its effectiveness in analyzing images. Eye exams at a LASIK eye center such as Excel Laser Vision Institute in Los Angeles require high-quality images and maps of the patient’s eyes. With the right algorithm, artificial intelligence can be taught to detect diseases during these routine exams and help prevent the onset of blindness. AI may also eventually allow for remote imaging in the future. 

There are some limitations to AI which can be supplemented by other technology and manual skills. When you receive LASIK in Los Angeles, you are not given over entirely to an automatic machine. On the contrary, there is an experienced surgeon monitoring and controlling the instruments that correct your refractive error. In this way, machines and humans can work together to help patients achieve their vision goals. When utilizing AI in procedures like LASIK, eye surgeons can improve the speed, precision, and effectiveness of the surgery. 

While artificial intelligence is an impressive feat for mankind, it is no replacement for the human brain. The existence of increasingly technical AI is exciting, but it does not signal the end of medical professionals. Rest assured, you will still have your eye doctor. Instead of replacing the skills of ophthalmologists, AI operates as a high-functioning aid for exams, diagnoses, and treatments. Statistics show that diabetic retinopathy scans controlled by AI are 95.7% accurate at detecting damage that requires a specialist referral and 100% accurate at detecting moderate to severe forms of the disease that might lead to vision loss. As we move into the future, AI moves with us and allows us to achieve greater things than we could have ever imagined. 

Learn About Contoura LASIK Recovery and its Origins as a Refractive Surgery

As one of the most popular and successful elective surgeries, LASIK is taking the nation by storm. Many people don’t realize that there are different forms of LASIK, from the very traditional blade LASIK to bladeless to topography-guided. We are here to discuss the origins of topography-guided LASIK as well as Contoura LASIK recovery in order to help you understand the level of innovation that this refractive surgery has achieved over the years. 

LASIK is a well-established refractive surgery that has been used to correct astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness for decades. In the last 30 years, laser eye technology has significantly improved to more precisely treat refractive errors according to each patient’s needs. Topography-guided LASIK, or Contoura LASIK, can measure not only the curvature of a patient’s cornea but pinpoint minuscule imperfections in this corneal topography in order to better achieve their vision goals.

The Origins of Contoura 

In order to understand the origins of Contoura, we must first review the history of laser eye surgery in general. Around 1990 is the time that photorefractive keratectomy or PRK was created by European eye doctors. These refractive surgery experts sought to improve vision correction procedures by integrating new strategies and techniques. Once the creation of the corneal flap became known, traditional LASIK eye surgery started to develop. PRK was approved by the FDA in 1995 and is still used today as an alternative to LASIK. Patients with thinner corneas may be better suited to PRK because it conserves eye tissue. However, PRK can also require a longer time to heal from, unlike Contoura LASIK recovery. 

Traditional LASIK was finally approved in 1999 and offered a shorter recovery period as well as a greater range of accuracy. Since then, technology like Wavefront-guided lasers have entered the scene to create more precise LASIK procedures. Wavefront-guided LASIK was available by 2003 and provided a more custom approach to vision correction. Patients raved about LASIK because it targeted their individual vision problems and achieved long-term results. 

If you’re already excited about laser correction and are looking up “Contoura LASIK near me,” then you should know that the FDA approved Contoura in 2015. This topography-guided version of LASIK utilizes advanced technology that can essentially map out the patient’s cornea and create a custom procedure to correct their refractive errors. According to experts, this technology pinpoints over 22,000 elevation spots on the cornea which can then be analyzed and recorded on the surgeon’s computer. This information helps direct the laser beam during the procedure, which in turn leads to more precise correction. Traditional LASIK corrects the general shape of the cornea whereas Contoura LASIK adjusts specific defects on the surface of the cornea which affect the texture. The technology allows patients to achieve clearer vision than they’ve ever experienced with contact lenses or glasses.

Contoura LASIK Candidates

If you are interested in getting Contoura LASIK, then you may be wondering if you qualify for the procedure. Much like any other refractive surgery, Contoura requires patients to be seen by a professional eye surgeon for an evaluation and consultation. Not all patients are eligible for the procedure because of their corneal thickness, symptoms of dry eye, and general health. However, this refractive surgery is very advanced and therefore can account for many different eye conditions. The best way to find out if you can receive Contoura LASIK is to visit a LASIK clinic and speak to an expert. Here are some of the factors that they will keep in mind during your exam and consultation: 

• Your level of prescription
• Your corneal thickness
• Your pupil size
• Your family health history
• Your personal health level 
• Your eye sensitivity

Topography-Guided LASIK Surgery

In the case that you do qualify for Contoura, you are probably wondering what to expect from this procedure. The good news is that, like many refractive surgeries, it is brief but effective. Contoura LASIK can last fifteen to twenty minutes and is generally said to be free of any discomfort. Most patients see a noticeable difference in their visual acuity directly after the procedure and it continues to improve as the eyes heal. Recovery times vary from person to person but many patients are able to return to their daily routines in the next few days. Full visual acuity will return within the next few months of recovery. Here are some more tips for your surgery day: 

• Avoid wearing contact lenses for a few weeks before your appointment (your surgeon will direct you if needed). 
• Have a designated driver to get you home after the surgery and pick up any medications or eye drops that you may need. 
• Come to your surgery appointment in comfortable clothes with no makeup. 
• Maintain proper eye care as directed by your surgeon and avoid rubbing your eyes. 
• Directly after your surgery, you will want to rest with protective eye shields and lubricating drops at the ready. 
• Notice any lingering symptoms after the surgery such as red-eye, watery eyes, or dry eye and report them to your surgeon during post-operative check-ups. 
• Avoid any activities that may risk injury to the eye and ask your surgeon before returning to more athletic activities. 

Achieve Your Vision Goals

Patients who receive Contoura Vision LASIK are often amazed at how well they can see after the procedure. Some say that their vision is even better than wearing prescription glasses or contacts. Contoura LASIK is also known for reducing the severity of light sensitivity, glare, and troubled night vision. Around ninety-two percent of patients who have had Contoura LASIK report a visual acuity of 20/20 or better after 12 months. With these statistics, Contoura LASIK is certainly a worthwhile investment. 

If you are dealing with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, then visit a LASIK clinic to ask about Contoura Vision. You might be surprised to learn that the procedure is more affordable than ever. With financial packages and aid, many patients are able to achieve their vision goals without breaking the bank. In fact, if you add up the accumulating costs of wearing glasses or contacts, LASIK eye surgery is actually cheaper in the long run! 

LASIK Surgery Will Save You from Having to Deal with Foggy Glasses

One of the reasons that so many people get excited about LASIK surgery in Los Angeles is that it can often free an individual from wearing contacts or glasses. This independence from corrective lenses is not only convenient; it’s life-changing. With recent health orders asking people to wear facemasks in public, more and more individuals that rely on glasses are struggling with the common problem of foggy glasses. 

Foggy glasses are hard to avoid when a face covering is necessary for most public spaces, especially now that we are entering the winter season. Even with masks that have tight, bendable nose bridges, air escapes and obstructs the vision of anyone wearing glasses. This is both inconvenient and dangerous. People walking in public, driving, and working can not effectively see because they are constantly dealing with foggy glasses. Plus, their risk of contracting a virus increases with the amount of adjusting they must do to compensate for this fogging-up problem. Many people are starting to search for the best laser eye surgery in Los Angeles as a long-term solution.

When the world was first struck with a new virus, many people were warned against wearing contact lenses. Glasses were a safer alternative because they did not require direct contact with the eye. This recommendation still stands. However, glasses present their own problems. Besides fogging up, glasses are easily breakable and can be lost, making it difficult for people to always rely on them. There are some temporary solutions to glasses fogging up, like using soap and water to wash the lenses or an anti-fog spray. However, these are not fool-proof solutions and can only provide so much of a barrier from moisture. 

According to LASIK experts such as Doctor Moosa, the key to foggy glasses is that our breath is both warm and moist. This presents the same problem as a car windshield in the wintertime. When exhaling with a mask on, the water vapor is trapped and concentrated. All it takes is a little gap in our facemasks to cause this air to shoot upward onto our prescription lenses. The surface tension of the droplets causes them to spread like a thin film. The fog will only last until the water evaporates. However, by then, you have probably exhaled again and the fogging process begins all over again. 

Fortunately, foggy glasses do not have to become the norm during this time. Many people are looking into LASIK as a permanent method of vision correction so that they may be less dependent on other means. LASIK eye surgery cost is more affordable than ever, especially with various financial plans available. If you are interested in laser eye surgery, then you can schedule an appointment with a LASIK clinic for an eye exam and consultation. Make sure to ask all of your burning questions about the procedure, such as how long does it take and how much is laser eye surgery. You will be well taken care of by experts and guided through the process to reach your vision goals. 

Am I Too Old to Get LASIK Surgery? Debunking the Age-Limit Myth

In order to qualify patients for laser eye surgery, there are certain guidelines that LASIK clinics in Los Angeles must follow. One of the guidelines states that you must be 18 years of age or older to receive the procedure. However, there is no age-limit to receive laser eye surgery. 

According to Doctor Moosa, one of the best LASIK surgeons in Los Angeles, individuals in their 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s may very well be good candidates for laser eye surgery, depending on other factors like eye health. Generally, people under 18 are not considered good candidates because their eyesight is not within a stable prescription yet. Many people, even in their twenties, are asked to wait until their prescriptions have not changed for up to a year before committing to the procedure. However, there is currently no age limit that restricts qualified patients.

LASIK eye surgery can treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. In patients over 40, LASIK surgeons see a trend of presbyopia, which is age-related farsightedness. This can affect the flexibility of the eye lens and cause blurry vision. Fortunately, presbyopia as a condition does not immediately disqualify patients for LASIK eye surgery. There are methods by which a LASIK surgeon can still correct refractive errors and reduce dependency on corrective lenses.

Once individuals reach age 55, they may start to develop cataracts which cause lens clouding and blurriness. LASIK cannot treat cataracts, but patients may undergo cataract surgery and then consider LASIK surgery after, in order to further treat farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism. Therefore, LASIK may still be an available option, even for patients who are at an older age and are experiencing certain age-related conditions.  

Besides being 18 years or older, there is no age requirement for LASIK patients. When evaluating a patient for laser eye surgery, doctors will consider their prescription, eye health, and general health. As long as someone has no medical conditions that will interfere with the surgery, they may very well be eligible for LASIK. The only way to know for sure is to speak to a qualified LASIK surgeon. When you go in for a consultation, you may ask questions like “how much is LASIK surgery?” and “how long does the procedure last?”. This is the perfect time to get clear on your vision goals and learn how refractive surgery can help you get there. Many people are fortunate enough to receive 20/20 vision after LASIK and can live independently from their glasses or contacts. 

While age limits may not exist for laser eye surgery, there are other factors that may disqualify a patient for LASIK eye surgery. Here are some of them: 

• Thin corneas – Patients with thin corneas may be better suited to alternatives like PRK.
• Medical conditions – Patients with autoimmune disorders or diabetes may have to take medications that could interfere with LASIK healing. Consult a LASIK specialist to see if your medical condition disqualifies you as a candidate. 
• Eye diseases – Patients with corneal diseases, severe dry eye syndrome, amblyopia, keratoconus, glaucoma, and cataracts may not be eligible for LASIK eye surgery. However, in the case of cataracts, patients may be able to receive treatment for their condition and then be eligible for LASIK after. 
• Eye infections or injuries – Patients that have suffered trauma to the eye or are fighting off infection may not be eligible for LASIK. However, they may be redirected to come back to the clinic for an evaluation after their eyes have fully healed. 
• Pregnancy or nursing – Patients that are pregnant or currently nursing are not considered eligible for LASIK because of the hormonal fluctuations in their body. They may be eligible to receive laser eye surgery once their hormones have rebalanced. 

What to Expect After Your LASIK Surgery

When you visit a LASIK clinic in Los Angeles particularly Excel Laser Vision Institute, you will be attended with the utmost respect and care. This is one of the reasons why laser eye surgery has become such a popular vision-correcting alternative in recent years. Not only is it precise and accurate, but most patients describe feeling safe and comfortable throughout the whole process.

Your surgeon at a LASIK eye center will first conduct a thorough examination of your eye in order to determine if you are eligible for the procedure. Once you are cleared as a qualified LASIK patient, they will run through the surgery with you in order to help you prepare mentally and physically. Typically, surgeons will ask that you come into the surgery wearing comfortable clothes with no makeup on and a designated driver to get you home. They will describe the various instruments that will be used to correct your refractive error and answer any questions you have about the surgery. 

If you don’t have much experience with laser eye surgery, then it is important to ask as many questions as you can. This will help ease your mind for the day of the surgery and allow you to relax fully during the procedure. As you may or may not know, LASIK is known for being quick and painless. Some patients are done in under fifteen minutes and get to experience immediate results! Depending on your vision goals and the extent of your refractive error, your surgery and recovery process may vary. However, this is what most patients at a LASIK clinic will experience after their surgery:  

• Improved vision immediately after the surgery – Not 100% clear, but astonishing for some patients who have relied on contacts or glasses for so long. Patients have described it as opening your eyes underwater. 
• Ability to drive after 24 hours – Patients are asked to bring a designated driver with them to the surgery. Once it is finished, they typically notice their vision clearing up in the next few hours. Most patients can return to their normal routine in the next day or so. 
• Protective shields – Many LASIK doctors recommend protective shields to their patients after the surgery to protect their eyes from injury and light sensitivity. This will be assigned for a certain period of time, depending on your eye needs. 
• Prescription eye drops – In order to prevent infection and minimize inflammation, LASIK doctors will often prescribe eye drops to their patients. They may also recommend non-prescription drops to lubricate the eyes if any dry eye symptoms are noticed. 
• Post-surgery rest – Patients typically describe LASIK as painless because the procedure is completed with the help of numbing drops and medications. However, once the anesthesia wears off, there may be some initial discomfort during recovery. In addition to eye drops and protective shields, LASIK doctors recommend that patients close their eyes and rest for the first four hours after their surgery. 
• Post-surgery check-ups – LASIK patients can expect to have a post-op check-up on the day after their surgery. This is to ensure that the healing process is running smoothly and the surgical treatment is satisfactory. Patients will likely have a second check-up a week later. Make sure to tell your doctor about any symptoms that you may have noticed and ask any questions about the recovery process. 

LASIK Eye Surgery Near Me

If you are looking for a qualified surgeon to correct your vision errors, then look no further than Dr. Moosa at the Excel Laser Vision Institute. As a Harvard-trained surgeon with thousands of surgeries under his belt, Dr. Moosa has the experience and the confidence to help you achieve your vision goals. Excel Laser Vision Institute has offices in Los Angeles and Orange County.