Dr. Gordon has been performing refractive surgery since 1987 to enhance the results for cataract surgery patients. Astigmatic Keratotomy, astigmatism correcting lens implants and multifocal lens implants (see cataract surgery section) are other refractive procedures performed at our center. We began LASIK several years after it was introduced in this country and have been performing it since 2001. We use the most up-to-date laser available in the US.
LASIK or Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis reshapes the cornea by removing tissue beneath the surface of the cornea. LASIK combines the accuracy of the Excimer Laser with the benefits of Lamellar Keratoplasty (LK).
First, a device called a microkeratome lifts a thin layer of the cornea. This instrument creates a precise layer by working very much like a carpenter’s plane. This layer, or flap, is then folded back. Next, a cool beam of light gently reshapes the outer surface of the cornea. The laser treatment typically takes less than one minute, and the flap is replaced in its original position.
LASIK is performed on an outpatient basis and takes only a few minutes. You will remain awake during the procedure and the only anesthetic you will need is eye drops, which are generally used for one week. The drops are both a mild steroid and an antibiotic. Anticipate being in our office about one hour on the day of the procedure. Most patients experience improved vision the same day and are able to return to work the very next day. You will take an antibiotic drop a few times a day for less than a week following your procedure.
Some of the advantages of LASIK are little or no postoperative discomfort, waking with good vision the following morning, being back at work quickly, and eye drops are used for less than a week.
LASIK is not recommended for all patients who come for a consultation. Sometimes surgery is not recommended at all and sometimes surface laser correction (LASEK) or a procedure called astigmatic keratotomy may be recommended. When you meet with Dr. Gordon for your consultation, after a thorough examination and discussion, he will be able to tell you if you are suitable to proceed.
Refractive Lens Exchange
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is usually recommended to patients with farsightedness. Using methods similar to those in cataract surgery, refractive lenses are implanted in place of the eye’s natural lens. The procedure is done under local anesthesia and takes approximately 15-30 minutes.
VISX Star S4 with CustomVue™ and Iris Recognition
CustomVue™ laser vision correction from VISX is now available at the Center for Eye Care At Le Med with Iris Registration. Iris Registration is a new fully automated method of aligning the CustomVue™ treatment to the eye during the procedure. In the past, the surgeon was responsible for marking and aligning the eye for torsional rotation during the procedure. Now with Iris Registration, the laser can more accurately align the treatment to the eye. Accurate alignment is essential to provide the best possible outcomes.
VISX laser systems have features that translate into several advantages for you:
- VISX laser systems produce the smoothest surface on the cornea after the procedure. Smoother ablations, as they’re known, promote faster healing and result in better vision.
- VISX laser systems allow the doctor to track your eye movement in all three dimensions during the treatment, for greater control.
- VISX laser systems achieve an optical zone that may result in reduced problems with night vision.
- VISX ActiveTrak™ laser systems produce seven variable sized beams, giving the doctor greater flexibility and allowing for a faster, smoother treatment with precise corneal shaping.
- VISX laser systems require a shorter procedure time, which enhances comfort and may reduce the risk of post-operative complications.
Why Choose Us?
- Unlike most local LASIK centers, we use a state licensed surgical facility
- Unlike some other local LASIK centers, our surgeon lives and works in the area and the surgeon himself is available for any problems
- Because we own our own surgical facility and don’t contract out for the surgeon, our costs are generally lower than other comparable facilities
- We use only the latest equipment in this rapidly changing field
- We work with your local optometrist when referred
LASIK Surgery Fees
Financing is available (see below). Most patients are approved, otherwise payment in full is expected at the time of the procedure. We accept Mastercard/Visa. The surgical fee covers the pre-operative examination, surgery and post-operative follow-up care for at least a year after the surgery.
Financing Options
- We offer several plans as low as $44/month per eye.
- No interest plans and fixed rate plans from 18 months to 48 months are available.
- We do, however, offer discount for payment up front.
We are unique in the State College/Huntingdon/Lewistown area
- Our laser is located in a surgical facility licensed by the state Department of Health and accredited by the AAAHC
- Our surgeon resides in the area and is available during the postoperative period
- There is no division of fees between an outside surgeon, a laser facility and perhaps another doctor other than the surgeon
- We are not a large corporate entity responsible first to their stockholders — we consider it a privilege that our patients have chosen us and serve them first.
We do have the philosophy of charging for the consultation exam. However, the consultation fee($50) is subtracted from the surgery fee. Our consultations are with the surgeon doing the surgery and are comprehensive.