Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is CustomVueTM laser vision correction?
• How does the CustomVueTM procedure work?
• What is a WaveScan® and a WavePrint Map®?
• Is everyone a candidate for CustomVue?
• Is refractive surgery permanent?
• Is LASIK vision correction safe?
• What are the side effects?
• Will I need to wear glasses once my eyes have healed?
• What is presbyopia?

What is CustomVueTM laser vision correction?

VISX CustomVue™ is an individualized laser vision correction treatment that is WaveScan-guided. This enables a doctor to measure and correct unique imperfections in each individual’s vision that could never be measured before with standard methods used for glasses and contact lenses. WaveScan technology identifies and measures imperfections in an individuals vision 25 times more precisely than standard methods used for glasses and contacts. With the CustomVue procedure, nearsighted and astigmatic individuals have the potential to achieve a new level of vision that we call Personal Best Vision.

How does the CustomVueTM procedure work?

First, the WaveScan technology measures the imperfections in the eyes and produces a WavePrint® Map. Much like a fingerprint, no two WavePrint maps are alike. It tailors a distinct correction for each individual-in fact each treatment is “designed” by the unique characteristics of your individual eye. Then, the treatment information is transferred to the VISX STAR S4™ laser. The doctor then uses that information to fine-tune the procedure thereby providing a new level of precision and accuracy.

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What is a WaveScan® and a WavePrint Map®?

WaveScan technology provides a measurement and a visual representation of your vision based on the behavior of light waves. It compares light passing through your eye to the same light pattern from an eye that needs no vision correction. The WavePrint Map is the output of the WaveScan; it captures the unique imperfections of a person’s visual path.

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Is everyone a candidate for CustomVue?

The FDA has approved a certain prescription range for CustomVue. Even if your prescription is within the treatment range, there are other factors that Dr. Larson will discuss with you during the pre-surgical exam and determine which treatment will be best for you.

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Is refractive surgery permanent?

LASIK surgery will result in a permanent change in your vision. Vision changes may occur over time due to various conditions (cataracts, macular degeneration, etc.). LASIK does not treat presbyopia (the need for reading glasses), which occurs in most people over the age of 40.

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Is LASIK vision correction safe?

The FDA has approved the VISX laser for the treatment of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism for eligible patients. Millions of patients worldwide have undergone successful laser vision correction procedures, and over one million VISX laser procedures have been performed in the U.S. since our first FDA approval in 1996. Most people treated experience an improvement in vision that would allow them to pass a driver’s license exam without the aid of glasses or contacts. For more information on the FDA and laser vision correction, visit the FDA website at www.fda.gov/cdrh/lasik.

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What are the side effects?

With any surgical procedure there are possible side effects. The most common side effects to LASIK are sensitivity to light, night glare, dry eyes and mild irritation. Most of these are temporary and will subside within one to three weeks. Remember that the best side effect is better vision!

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Will I need to wear glasses once my eyes have healed?

The overwhelming majority of patients that have had LASIK do not wear glasses for daily activities. Patients may need reading glasses around age 40 due to the normal aging of the eye (known as presbyopia). Some patients may need a minimal prescription for night driving.

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What is presbyopia?

Presbyopia occurs around age 40 when the inner lens of the eye becomes less adept at changing its focus from distance to near vision. When this occurs, patients may need magnification for reading. This will still be necessary after surgery, as LASIK does not stop presbyopia.

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