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Watch a LASIK procedure

Q: What is the difference between LASIK, PRK and the Wavefront system?

• In LASIK a very thin flap of corneal tissue is lifted out of the way to allow the laser treatment. The flap is then replaced and healing takes place within 24 hours.
• In PRK the laser is applied directly to the surface of the eye without creating the flap. The healing process is slower but the results are the same. This procedure is better for patients with conditions such as thin corneal surfaces.
• Wavefront analysis, the latest technology, gives the surgeon more information about the patient's entire optical system - a distinctive visual map. By combining Wavefront mapping with a sophisticated tracking technology, we produce a more personalized and therefore potentially safer laser vision correction procedure.

Q: How do I know if I am a candidate for these treatments?
A: Drs. Jenkins and Omphroy performed the first laser refractive surgeries in the islands and have continued to stay in the forefront of the technology curve. They are trained in all these procedures using the most advanced equipment available in Hawaii and will select what is appropriate for each patient. To explore your options, please contact us or take our online quiz.

Q: What do I need to do to prepare for LASIK and PRK surgery?
A: Ke Ala Ike offers a complete step-by-step description of preparations, procedures and post-operative actions. For details, view our video documentary in our Refractive Surgery section.

Q: One eye or two at a time?
A: Yes, most candidates are suitable for the same-day treatment. However, patients must carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages and discuss them in detail with the surgeon.

Q: Will my insurance cover laser eye surgery?
A: Most insurance companies will not cover LASIK, since it is considered an elective procedure.

Q: Do I need to take time off work?
A: The majority of LASIK patients can return to work in 24 to 48 hours. All patients are seen within a few days. Vision may fluctuate over the first few weeks after surgery, but most patients are comfortable returning to work the day after they are seen for their post-operative visit.

Q: Can I wear contact lenses after LASIK if I want to?
A: Neither LASIK nor PRK is a magic wand and treatment does not guarantee total freedom from glasses or contact lenses. The vast majority of patients have excellent day-to-day vision. Patients with high degrees of refractive errors to begin with cannot expect the same results as those with low to moderate error. They will likely need eyewear for driving at night, reading subtitles at the movies, and other eye-intensive activities.
Remember too that as you approach the age where reading glasses may be needed (mid-40s), you will most likely still need to use them to read or work at close range.

Q: Is it safe for me to drive after refractive surgery?
A: The operated eye is blurred immediately after treatment. You will not be able to drive. We advise you to have someone with you to accompany you home. Each patient's symptoms vary, and you should only drive when you feel confident.

Q: How long will the results of LASIK or PRK last?
A: Medical researchers have been following LASIK patients for 15 years and have uncovered no detrimental long-term effects. The corneal flap procedure has been practiced widely since the 1980s with no long-term complications found. In view of these findings, we have confidence in these procedures, but it is not possible to guarantee that some rare problems may develop in the future.

Q: What if LASIK is not the best procedure for me?
A: The field of refractive surgery is continually changing. Laser procedures are becoming more customized. Lens implants are now possible without removing the natural lens. Patients who are not candidates for excimer laser surgery because their corneas are too thin or their refractive errors are too high may be candidates for this technology. And there are others.

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