It's the most advanced vision correction treatment, computer controlled for safe, precise results. A Cool beam of light gently reshapes the outer surface of the cornea. You won't even feel it, and in less than a minute, your vision is immediately improved.

Ophthalmology Incorporated uses the VISX Excimer Laser System. 9 out of 10 eye care specialists choose this system for Laser vision correction. You can feel confident knowing VISX technology provides safe, effective treatment that is FDA-approved, and has treated over one million patients worldwide over the last ten years. Please note: Every eye care professional must complete a rigorous training and certification program in order to perform laser vision correction with VISX. Technicians who assist doctors must also be trained and certified.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT THE DAY OF THE PROCEDURE?

This is an outpatient procedure. The laser treatment takes less than one minute for most patients. The entire procedure usually takes fifteen minutes. And your visit will be complete in less than an hour.

First, you will relax in a reclining chair. Anesthetic drops will be placed in your eye, then your eye doctor will position your head under the laser, and a retainer will be placed to gently and comfortably hold your eyelids open during treatment.

The treatment begins with the removal of the outermost layer of the cornea. Then, you will focus on a blinking light. Microscopic amounts of tissue, less than the thickness of a human hair, will be removed from your cornea by the gently pulsing light. Afterwards, some drops or ointment will be placed in your eye for protection and comfort.

You'll walk out of the treatment center with new vision, immediately! You'll visit your doctor for follow-up exams periodically during the first year.

Remember, results vary with each individual. In a recent study, 98% of patients treated for nearsightedness and/or astigmatism with VISX Excimer Laser SystemTM saw well enough to pass a driver's test without glasses. And some people go back to work the day after treatment. Two or three days are suggested. Your doctor will be able to tell you if laser vision corrections is right for you. Some guidelines are:

• You must have healthy eyes, and be at least 18 years of age for nearsightedness and 21 years old for astigmatism.
• Your vision must be stable for at least one year before laser procedure.
• You are not a good candidate if you have degenerative or autoimmune diseases, or if you are pregnant or nursing, or if you have a condition that makes healing difficult.

As with any procedure there are risks. However, because laser vision correction uses a cool beam of light that is computer controlled, there is little room for error.

Call OPHTHALMOLOGY INCORPORATED to set up an appointment to see if laser vision correction will work for you.

• LaPorte office: (219) 362-6297 or 1-800-653-8500