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LASIK Laser Eye Surgery Frequently Asked Questions
Provided by Dr. Daniel Ritacca


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Advanced Surface Ablation


Advanced Surface Ablation is a relatively new laser vision procedure that has additional safety features over LASIK making it an ideal alternative for some patients. Instead of cutting a flap on the front of the cornea, the surface skin cells (epithelium) are loosened with a diluted alcohol solution and removed. The corneal surface is then treated with the laser and covered with a bandage contact lens.

ASA removes tissue within the cornea to treat low to high levels of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.

ASA is a better choice for those who is for those who:
  • want to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contacts
    are over 18 years of age
  • have had a stable eye prescription for at least one year
  • have no health issues affecting their eyes
  • have wide pupils
  • have corneas too thin for LASIK
  • want to avoid LASIK flap complications
  • who want to minimize dry eye problems after surgery
  • who cannot have LASIK because of eye pressure problems (glaucoma)
  • who cannot have LASIK because of corneal dystrophy problems
  • who do not want LASIK because it requires a microkeratome
The margin of safety with ASA may be greater than that with LASIK as the need for a microkeratome is eliminated, so there's no risk of flap complications. You do not need to worry about rubbing your eye or bumping it after surgery and having the LASIK flap slip or wrinkle, because there is no flap. The nerve endings that control tear secretion are not cut, so there is less of a problem with dry eye after surgery.


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Refractive Surgery


Refractive Surgery (Vision Correction) is a safe alternative to contact lenses or glasses allowing you to enhance your vision and your quality of life. Refractive surgery works by correcting or reshaping cornea, thus allowing the lens of the eye to focus properly.


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Surgery Day Expectations


You will arrive at the laser center about an hour prior to your procedure. Once you have been checked-in and settled comfortably, you will be prepared for surgery. The area around your eyes will be cleaned and a sterile drape will be applied. You may be given a sedative to help you relax. Eye drops will be used to numb your eyes; no injections or needles are used. When your eye is completely numb, an eyelid holder will be placed between your eyelids to keep you from blinking.

Next, a specially designed instrument, called an Amoils Brush, will be used to gently massage the cornea and remove the upper layers of the epithelium. The epithelium is then pushed to the side.

You will be asked to look directly at a target light while the laser reshapes your cornea. The laser will be programmed with the information gathered in your pre-operative exam. The laser treatment will be completed in less than a minute or two, depending on the amount of correction needed. To finish the procedure, your doctor will smooth the flap back into place. A temporary bandage contact lens will be used to reduce post-operative discomfort.

Following your procedure, your eye(s) may be shielded for protection. Your vision will probably be a little blurry at first, so someone will need to drive you home. You should relax for the rest of the day. You may experience mild to moderate discomfort for two or three days. You will be given instructions on how to manage this discomfort before you leave. Most patients resume normal activities within two to three days. Vision can fluctuate for up to six months.

Realistic expectations:

The decision to have ASA is an important one that only you can make. The goal of any refractive surgical procedure is to reduce your dependence on corrective lenses. However, we cannot guarantee you will have the results you desire. The vast majority of our patients are extremely happy with their vision after ASA and can do most activities without dependence on corrective lenses.

Serious complications with ASA are extremely rare. ASA is a safe, effective and permanent procedure, but like any surgical procedure, it does have some risks. Many of the risks and complications associated with this procedure can be reduced or eliminated through careful patient selection and thorough pre-operative testing using the latest diagnostic technology.

ASA is a safe, effective and permanent procedure, but like any surgical procedure, it does have some risks. After ASA, you may experience some visual side effects. These visual side effects are usually mild and most often diminish over a few days to a few weeks. But there is a slight chance that some of these side effects won't go away completely, such as feelings of dryness, glare and halos.

After a thorough eye exam, you and your doctor will determine if ASA is an option for you. If you are a good candidate, you will be given additional information about the procedure that will allow you to make an informed decision about whether to proceed. Be sure you have all your questions answered to your satisfaction.


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Daniel Ritacca, MD
Ritacca Laser Center

Office Address:

Vernon Hills
230 Center Dr
Vernon Hills, IL 60061

Oak Park
610 Maple Ave
Suite 2600
Oak Park, IL 60304

Evanston
2500 Ridge Ave
Suite 208
Evanston, IL 60061
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