Frequently Asked Questions
about lasik

YOUR LASIK QUESTIONS ANSWERED!

Q: What happens at the complimentary LASIK consultation?

A: During this thorough 2 1/2 hour eye examination, you will learn more about LASIK as an alternative to glasses and contact lenses. Our doctors and staff will perform a detailed evaluation of your eyes to determine if you are a candidate for LASIK. You will also meet with a patient counselor to discuss recovery time, your expectations and financing options. Dr. Manger will personally examine your eyes and answer any questions you may have. It is important that you bring your glasses, contact lenses, and prescriptions to this exam.

Q: What is LASIK and how does it work?

A: LASIK (Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis) is the most advanced procedure available for correcting certain eye conditions, and is the procedure of choice among refractive surgeons worldwide. Dr. Manger uses the VISX Star S4 laser with CustomVue and Iris Registration, which can treat most levels of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism with incredible accuracy and precision. Both eyes are treated the same day, patients usually experience little or no postoperative discomfort, and visual recovery is quick. In fact, most of our patients return to work and other normal activities the very next day.

Q: Thousands of doctors perform LASIK. What qualifications set Dr. Manger apart from the other surgeons in his field?

A: Few doctors can match Dr. Manger's laser vision correction qualifications and expertise. With 27 years of experience, Dr. Manger has performed close to 58,000 LASIK procedures. In fact, he is not only the most experienced LASIK surgeon in the Western United States, he has recorded some of the highest LASIK success rates in the country. Dr. Manger is also one of the few ophthalmologists in the country who is board-certified in LASIK by the American Board of Eye Surgery, meaning his surgical skills have been tested and certified by a select panel of surgeons.

Q: When it comes to LASIK, is technology more important than an experienced surgeon?

A: No. While having the latest in laser vision correction technology is important and certainly can affect your outcomes, you can expect better results from a surgeon with significant experience, and chances of complications are minimized when your care is entrusted to a seasoned doctor. You should find a doctor who has both a wealth of experience and the best technology available at his fingertips – at Saddleback Eye Center, we are fortunate to have both.

Q: I have seen other doctors advertise LASIK at discount prices. Why should I choose Saddleback Eye Center?

A: With some practices, a lower price for LASIK comes at the expense of patient care or surgical experience. In other words, you get what you pay for. You only plan to have LASIK once, so don’t let price be the major determining factor for your procedure. Dr. Manger is ranked by industry experts in the top 1% of LASIK surgeons in the country and his standards for success are higher than most LASIK surgeons: more than 99% of his nearsighted patients see 20/15, 20/20 or 20/25 following LASIK. The industry standard for success is 20/40 or better.

Q: Is All-Laser LASIK affordable?

A: Saddleback Eye Center offers many affordable payment plans for your All-Laser LASIK procedure from low monthly payments to 0% financing. Our most popular plan is our 12-month 0% interest financing (on approved credit). The approval process is easy and confidential. To learn more about our financing options, click here!

Q: I thought LASIK was always All-Laser?

A: Some people are surprised to learn that traditional LASIK is only partly performed by a laser. The first step in traditional LASIK uses a blade in a mechanical, hand-held device to cut into the surface of the eye to create a corneal flap. The second step is performed by an Excimer laser to reshape the cornea. All-Laser LASIK replaces the blade in the first step of the procedure with a computer-controlled cold beam laser - this treatment is 100% All-Laser, providing patients with a safe, bladeless, premium approach to laser vision correction.

Q: What is the difference between CustomVue LASIK and standard laser vision correction?

A: CustomVue LASIK can go further than conventional methods for correction and help with a range of visual problems that could not be measured before. This customized treatment uses the VISX WaveScan® system to create a WavePrint™ map, or “fingerprint”, of your eyes. With this technology, we are able to address tiny imperfections that can significantly improve not only your visual acuity, but your visual quality as well. This means the potential for better vision than with your glasses or contacts along with better night vision as well.

Q: Will I need to wear glasses once my eyes have healed after All-Laser LASIK?

A: Most patients who have All-Laser LASIK with Dr. Manger no longer need glasses for their daily activities. However, if you’re over age 40, you still may need to wear reading glasses because of the normal aging process of the eye. This condition, known as presbyopia, occurs naturally, as you get older, whether or not you have had LASIK.

Q: Are there any risks associated with LASIK?

A: As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with LASIK, but in the hands of highly skilled and experienced surgeon, LASIK can be a safe and successful procedure. Nevertheless, you should talk with Dr. Manger and his staff about any risks associated with the procedure, as well as all the benefits. Keep in mind that at Saddleback Eye Center, you are in the hands of a highly experienced and skilled eye surgeon who has built his reputation on both precision and safety.

Q: Is LASIK painful?

A: Anesthetic eye drops should prevent you from feeling any discomfort during the procedure, though some patients do experience a mild sensation of pressure on their eyes while the surgery is taking place. Once you return home following your procedure, it is normal for some patients to experience mild discomfort, watery eyes, or light sensitivity. These symptoms are usually temporary and should resolve in a short amount of time.

Q: How soon after LASIK can I return to my regular activities like driving, going to work or exercising?

A: In most cases, people who have had LASIK can return to work the next day. Most people resume normal activities after a day of rest. However, be sure to consult your doctor before you engage in swimming or any other physical activities such as tennis or racquetball.

Q: What if I do not end up with full correction after my laser vision procedure?

A: Approximately 3-4% of our patients will need an “enhancement” after the initial procedure to achieve optimal results. Dr. Manger will weigh the probable benefits, patient expectations, and potential risks when determining whether or not an enhancement is necessary. At Saddleback Eye Center, any necessary enhancements are covered under your initial fee for a full two years following your procedure.