LASIK Vision Enhancement by Dr. Will Christian
Dr. Will Christian has helped thousands of people per year improve their vision with the LASIK procedure. While LASIK is a simple procedure to undergo as a patient, it requires extreme precision and a high level of training to be successful and safe.
The LASIK Procedure
The LASIK procedure, while relatively simple and painless for the patient, requires the utmost precision and absolute knowledge to be successful. Eye specialist, Dr. Christian has helped over 2,500 people per year improve their vision with this method, making him one of the top providers of LASIK Surgery in Los Angeles. He has found that the best way to understand the LASIK procedure, is to first understand how the eye works.
What are the Benefits of LASIK?
- • It’s proven to correct vision in most cases
- • LASIK surgery is completed with little discomfort
- • Vision is corrected almost immediately, usually within 24 hours
- • Recovery is quick, generally with no need for bandages
- • Adjustments can be made years after the LASIK surgery to further correct vision
- • After LASIK, most patients no longer need corrective eyewear
Candidates For LASIK Surgery
LASIK is a quick and proven surgery that has helped millions of people improve their sight, but not everyone meets the criteria for this procedure. Dr. Christian is an ophthalmologist, which means he is the most highly trained medical doctor in the field of the eye. If LASIK is not your best option, there may be another more suited to your situation. Dr. Christian will advise as to what is best for you to have the outcome you’re looking for.
Below is a list of the initial requirement for the LASIK procedure. Take a look and see if you qualify:
- • I’m between the age of 18 and 60
- • I have near- or farsightedness or have astigmatism
- • I’ve had stable vision for the last 2 years
- • I have no significant eye problems or health issues that may affect the eyes
- • I’m not pregnant or nursing
The above requirements are very basic. Since your eyes are unique to you, there is no way to tell if you’re a candidate without a personal exam and consultation with Dr. Christian. He will ensure you fully meet the health and medical requirements.
Some aspects of the initial exam include:
- • A review of your eyes' overall health
- • A measurement of the thickness and shape of the cornea
- • Corneal topography
- • Your optical history, including use of glasses or contact lenses
- • Establishing your prescription and refractive error in each eye
- • Dilation of the eyes to check the health of the retina and optic nerve
- • Dry eye test
More on Corneal Topography
Corneal topography is vital in the success of LASIK surgery, so it deserves more mention here. It is a technique for mapping the surface curvature of the eye and creating a three-dimensional map of it. Dr. Christian will use this extremely detailed map to plan the exact procedure needed for your specific eye. This is your “pre-op” plan to ensure the surgery goes as well as possible. An added benefit of this technique is its ability to detect a previously undiagnosed, non-optimum condition or disease. LASIK surgery procedure is completely painless and is carried out in seconds.
Personalized care
After your eye evaluation, you will be able to sit down with Dr. Christian and discuss your situation. Again, LASIK is not for everyone, but there are definitely other options to improve your sight. Dr. Christian is here for you to deliver the best and proper care to get the outcome you want. Please call our office today to schedule a consultation.
Choosing your LASIK Surgeon
Dr. Christian has worked hard to master his field and become a top LASIK specialist. Here is why you should choose Dr. Christian for your LASIK surgeon in Los Angeles & Santa Monica:
- • Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.
- • Dr. Christian has worked hard at his profession and is one of the most dedicated and professional LASIK eye surgeons practicing in the greater Los Angeles area.
- • He performs an astounding number of surgeries every year, over ten times the average, with above standard results.
- • Since becoming an eye specialist, Dr. Christian has performed 2,500 surgeries annually and as attested by his patients, his standard is perfection.
- • His newly renovated facility is completely state-of-the-art, designed to give patients peace of mind while they receive top tier care.
LASIK Patient Testimonial
Read More Patient Reviews“Dr. Christian performed LASIK on both of my eyes last month and I could not be happier with the result. Dr. Christian is very thoughtful and spent a lot of time explaining the procedure and what to expect. I was understandably nervous at the idea of a laser anywhere near my eyes. He put me at ease from the first meeting, and when I just went back for my three week post op appointment my eyesight was 20/15! The entire procedure was relatively painless and easy. I would highly recommend him to anyone!” C.B.
How Does the Eye See?
The eye works much the same way as a camera lens focuses light to create an image on film. The cornea helps focus the light coming in and creates an image on the retina.
Often the shape of the cornea and eye is imperfect, causing distortions in your sight and making objects seem blurry. The imperfections of the focusing power of the eye are called refractive errors. The three primary refractive errors that LASIK can correct are:
- • Myopia (nearsightedness)
- • Hyperopia (farsightedness)
- • Astigmatism (distortions caused by irregularities in the cornea or lens)
Each of these conditions are common to a large number of people and are easily corrected by LASIK.
How Does LASIK Work?
Once you've elected to undergo LASIK with the Vanguard Eye Institute, the first step is having an eye examination to ensure you are a fully qualified LASIK candidate. Tests for glaucoma, cataracts and other disqualifying conditions. Once this is done and there are no disqualifications detected, Dr. Christian will use a machine called a corneal topographer to take an extremely detailed and accurate photograph and electronic map of your eye. He will use this to plan the surgery for the most precise results possible.
During the procedure, our LASIK surgeon uses a precise surgical tool or a laser to create a thin, circular “flap” on the surface of the cornea. He will then fold back this flap to gain access to the underlying cornea. An extremely precise laser is then directed at the cornea, reshaping and changing its focusing power to sharp and clear images and perfect sight. The FDA approved this laser to be used in corrective eye procedures in 1995, and millions of people have benefited from it since.
What will I experience during LASIK surgery?
We have treated thousands of patients with the LASIK procedure and understand that having eye surgery while awake can be a daunting prospect for some people. In fact, this anxiety is shared by most patients prior to surgery. Post surgery, these same patients are pleasantly surprised at how easy and painless the whole process is. To help with relaxation, patients are offered a sedative prior to surgery, as, our goal is to provide the most stress free environment for your LASIK eye surgery.
Starting surgery – 30 minutes to clear vision
The surgical process of LASIK takes about 30 minutes including preparation. When you arrive, you will be comfortably settled in a reclining chair. You will notice the laser equipment as it is quite large and comprises the laser, a microscope and a computer.
To begin, LASIK specialist Dr. Christian will apply anesthetic drops to your eyes and clean the area around your eyes. To prevent blinking a device that holds the eye lid open is attached so you won’t be tasked with keeping your eyes open. During the procedure you will be able to speak to Dr. Christian at any time. He will continuously keep you up to date on what he is doing, what he is about to do and if you should be prepared to feel pressure, etc.
Creating the corneal flap
To correct your vision, the cornea (the clear surface at the front of your eye) must be adjusted and to do that, a small flap of tissue from the surface is cut and folded back to allow access to the underlying tissue. During this part of the LASIK procedure you will feel pressure on your eye, but not pain. Additionally, until the flap is replaced on your eye, your vision will darken and blur. This will only be for a brief period of time.
Once the flap has been created, it will be moved out of the way. Adjusting your eye dimensions requires you to keep your eye as still as possible and to do this you will be asked to stare at a light for up to 60 seconds. During this phase of the procedure you should also feel no pain.
The laser
The laser isn’t begun until your eye is in the exact right position. You will hear the laser working as a series of ticking sounds, and you may notice a smell. This is all part of the process of removing corneal structure and is the shortest part of the surgery. Most patients experience only pressure during this phase or very mild discomfort related to pressure.
The amount of laser energy delivered to the eye is preprogrammed into the equipment, based on the measurements that Dr. Christian takes during your pre-surgery examinations. Once the cornea has been adjusted, the flap is replaced and protective eyewear will be placed over your eyes.
Adjusting for patient movement
Sometimes patients worry that permanent damage to their vision can occur by accidentally moving while the laser is working. As Dr. Christian is one of the best providers of LASIK surgery in Los Angeles, he uses only state-of-the-art equipment. This machinery is precisely calibrated to adjust to small patient movements, and will compensate for them. By in large, accidental movement does not compromise the final result.
LASIK Technology
Following the first laser eye surgeries which were performed in the mid 1990s, there has been ongoing research into improving the laser technology used. Dr. Will Christian uses the most advanced laser technology available in his state-of-the-art eye surgery clinic; the Alcon Allegretto® excimer laser and the Zeiss VisuMax® laser. These space-age lasers provide unprecedented speed, accuracy and patient comfort, restoring clear vision without side effects such as dry eyes.
Learn More About LASIK TechnologyAfter LASIK surgery
Once your LASIK surgery is complete, you can be driven home to rest. Your vision will be blurry for a few days so you should arrange for a two or three day absence from work. You will possibly experience some itching or burning or feel as if there is something in your eye. Dr. Christian will provide you with complete instructions on what to do over the first few days following surgery, including managing any pain or discomfort.
Your first postoperative visit will be 24 to 48 hours after LASIK surgery. Dr. Christian will examine your eyes and test your vision. You will now be able to enjoy the vastly improved vision you were hoping for without your corrective lenses.
What to Expect
Dr. Christian and his staff want every patient to be fully informed and comfortable before embarking on this journey. Learn what will take place before, during and after surgery as well as helpful information to ensure the best outcome.
Learn More About What To ExpectDr. Will Christian on The Doctors
LASIK FAQ
Is LASIK safe?
The FDA recognizes LASIK as proven, safe and effective. The laser used is a cool (non-thermal) beam of light that is monitored by computer. The surgeon has complete control over its operation and can turn it off at any sign of trouble. There are many other safeguards involved in making sure it is a safe procedure. Although the chances of complications are slim to none, you will be under the watchful eye of top a LASIK surgeon at our Los Angeles clinic. Studies suggest that the chances of minor difficulties such as dry eyes and nighttime glare occur in only 3-5% of patients, and serious complications occur in less than 1%. The vast majority of outcomes are 100% positive and effective.
Does LASIK hurt?
During LASIK, Dr. Christian will place anesthetic eye drops before he begins treatment. As such, patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure. Many LASIK patients report very mild discomfort for a day or two after surgery.
Are there any side effects?
Some people experience dry eye, which is commonly relieved with eye drops and disappears over time. Others may experience “night glare” (starburst or halos around lights, especially at night). This too usually disappears over time. Fewer than 1% of LASIK patients report their vision worsening rather than improving. As with any surgical procedure, there is a certain amount of risk, but with strict safety precautions and an exceptional safety record, Dr. Christian ensures his patients are as safe as possible.
I have more questions about LASIK, who do I ask?
If you have further questions about LASIK, please call our office and ask one of our knowledgeable staff. Also, Dr. Christian will answer any and all questions at your first consultation.
Myths & Truths About LASIK Surgery
Truth: LASIK surgery only affects the cornea, which is the front surface of the eye. Serious complications are very rare and no patient has ever gone blind from LASIK.
Myth: If your outcome is poor from LASIK, it’s permanent.
Truth: 95% of LASIK patients are satisfied with their outcome, but if the need arises, even years later, adjustments can be made to improve your vision further.
Myth: After a successful LASIK surgery, you will never need glasses or contact lenses again.
Truth: LASIK corrects the imperfections in the eye that create near and farsightedness and a host of other non-optimum conditions. It does not stop the natural aging process of the eye. You may eventually need glasses for specific purposes such as reading or driving at night.
What is the typical recovery time after LASIK surgery?
The typical recovery time after LASIK surgery is relatively short, with most patients experiencing improved vision within 24 to 48 hours. However, full visual stabilization may take several weeks.
Can both eyes be treated during the same LASIK procedure?
Yes, both eyes can typically be treated during the same LASIK procedure, which is known as bilateral LASIK. This approach is common and allows for simultaneous vision correction.
Schedule a Consultation for LASIK in Los Angeles & Santa Monica
If you are interested in LASIK surgery in Los Angeles or Santa Monica, your next step is a consultation with LASIK specialist, Dr. Christian. During this time, he will perform any necessary examination to determine the best course of action to restore your eyesight. In the interest of delivering the best LASIK eye surgery in Los Angeles and Santa Monica, Dr. Christian keeps abreast of any improvements in this technology and procedure. This means you benefit from a surgeon who has the expertise to back up his compassion for his patients. Please call our office today to schedule a consultation.
