5 Types of Vision Correction Surgery Offered at Kleiman Evangelista

About 14 million people in the United States experience vision problems. However, you shouldn’t have to rely on glasses and contacts to see life’s moments clearly. At Kleiman Evangelista, we believe that you deserve to experience the best vision possible on your terms. That’s why we offer several vision correction surgery options to treat various common eye conditions, from refractive errors to cataracts. Continue reading to learn more about your options for vision correction .

1. LASIK

What is LASIK?

LASIK, or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is one of the most popular vision correction surgeries in the United States. This laser eye surgery reshapes underlying corneal tissue to refocus light onto the retina and produce clear vision.

What does LASIK correct?

LASIK corrects refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Click here to take a LASIK self-test and determine if you are a candidate.

How does LASIK work?

LASIK is an outpatient procedure that only takes about 10 minutes per eye and about 20 minutes total. During the surgery, your eye surgeon creates a flap on the outer layer of the cornea . They then use the most advanced, state-of-the-art laser technology to fix the irregular shape. This adjustment allows light to focus directly on the retina, which boosts your vision at all distances.

What is LASIK recovery time?

The immediate LASIK recovery period only lasts for about one to two days. Generally, patients can return to work the day after surgery. However, full recovery can take up to 3 to 6 months. It is completely normal for vision to fluctuate (blurring, glare, etc.) as the flap continues healing itself.

How much does LASIK cost?

The price of LASIK can range  but general estimates are around $2,000 per eye. While insurance does not typically cover this procedure, several payment options, like HSA, FSA, and financing, can make LASIK more affordable. At Kleiman Evangelista Eye Centers of Texas, the cost of LASIK includes a completely customized LASIK treatment plan with topography guided mapping technology, 6 months of follow-up care, and our Vision Commitment Plan.

2. PRK

What is PRK?

PRK, or ­­­photorefractive keratectomy, is another form of laser eye surgery that reshapes the corneal surface to correct refractive errors. This procedure came before LASIK and still represents a popular LASIK alternative with great results.

What does PRK correct?

PRK is used to correct mild to moderate refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It may present a better option for those who are not LASIK candidates due to poor corneal shape or thickness or dry eye.

How does PRK work?

This outpatient procedure takes less than 15 minutes per eye. The PRK procedure works very similarly to LASIK. However, instead of creating a corneal flap, the eye surgeon uses a solution to gently rub away the epithelial layer and expose the cornea. They then use an excimer laser and computer imaging to change the corneal shape appropriately. Similarly with LASIK, the laser KE uses are PRK procedures is the most advanced available and the treatment plan is completely customized to meet your specific needs.

What is PRK recovery time?

The immediate recovery period for PRK lasts from 3 to 5 days as the epithelial layer grows back. It is normal to experience some worsening in vision during this first stage. Patients also experience a bit more discomfort during PRK recovery than during LASIK recovery while the epithelium grows back. The eyes should heal completely, and the vision should become clearer within about 1 to 2 months.

How much does PRK cost?

The price of PRK is similar to LASIK and because it is considered elective surgery, insurance does not typically cover it. However, there are plenty of payment options to offset the immediate costs. The cost of PRK includes a completely customized treatment plan with topography guided mapping technology, 6 months of follow-up care, and our Vision Commitment Plan.

3. Visian ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)

What is Visian ICL?

Visian ICL, or implantable collamer lens, is a vision correction option that differs from LASIK and PRK in that it does not use a laser to reshape the cornea. Instead, an artificial lens is implanted in the eye and works with the natural lens to give you sharper vision. It’s like having a contact lens – in your eye instead of on it!

What does Visian ICL correct?

Visian ICL is a great option for those  with severe nearsightedness and astigmatism. Those with thin corneas and dry eyes may also benefit from this procedure since it does not tend to cause dry eye following surgery.

How does Visian ICL work?

Visian ICL is a minimally invasive surgery that only takes about 30 minutes as a whole. During this procedure, the eye surgeon creates a small gap and places an artificial lens between the natural lens and the colored iris. This artificial lens then works with the eye’s natural lens to boost vision like a contact would.

While an ICL functions as a permanent solution, it can be replaced with an updated prescription or removed altogether if needed.

What is Visian ICL recovery time?

The immediate recovery for ICL eye surgery only lasts for 1 to 7 days, thanks to the small opening created during the procedure. Although, it can take up to 1 to 2 months for the eye to heal completely and reveal your best vision. Many people experience 20/20 vision the day after surgery.

How much is Visian ICL eye surgery?

ICL surgery mostly depends on the type of lens that will be need. An astigmatism will likely need to be addressed with a toric lens. As an elective surgery, you will remain responsible for the costs. However, there are various ways , including financing, that can make this procedure more manageable. When you consider the cost of adding up contacts and glasses over the years, ICL can pay for itself in the long run.

4. Clear Lens Exchange (CLE)

What is CLE?

Clear lens exchange, or CLE, is a surgical option to correct refractive errors. It is sometimes referred to as refractive lens exchange or RLE. This procedure presents an especially good LASIK alternative for those with aging eyes, or those with presbyopia. However, CLE more closely resembles cataract surgery in its process.

What does CLE correct?

CLE offers an excellent option for those with mild to moderate refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. This procedure is particularly helpful for patients with presbyopia, or age-related farsightedness, as LASIK cannot correct this condition. If you are over 40, have thin or irregular corneas, and experience dry eye, CLE might be right for you.

How does CLE work?

CLE is an outpatient procedure that only lasts for about 30 minutes per eye. In CLE, your doctor creates a small incision on the edge of the cornea to remove the natural lens. They then insert an intraocular lens (IOL) designed to correct the vision at the preferred distance to fit your lifestyle needs.

Generally, your doctor will operate on one eye at a time, as it can take some time for your eye to adjust to the new lens. It can be helpful to have one eye that can still see normally during this time. After about two weeks, you can complete the second eye.

What is the recovery time for CLE eye surgery?

Depending on your post-op appointment, you may receive clearance to return to work the day after and resume driving and other regular activities after about a week. It can then take 4 to 6 weeks for total healing.

How much is CLE?

The cost CLE can greatly depend on lens type you choose. As with the other refractive vision correction procedures, there are several way to make the procedure afford, including financing.

5. Cataract Surgery

What is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is meant to replace the clouded natural lens with an artificial lens to restore your vision. This procedure is especially common for those over 60 affected by this condition.

What does cataract surgery correct?

A cataract is a progressive medical condition that affects the natural lens that sits directly behind your iris. This lens focuses the light that passes through the eye and sends that light along to the retina, allowing us to see a clear picture. As we age, that lens changes, becoming opaquer as the proteins change and form clumps. Because it’s not as transparent as it used to be, the light doesn’t pass through the lens the same way, clouding the picture that is our vision.  Cataract surgery is the only complete treatment for cataracts.

How does cataract surgery work?

Cataract surgery involves making a small incision in the eye and removing the clouded lens. An IOL is then inserted behind the pupil and iris for better vision.

Patients can choose the IOL that best fits their lifestyle. Whether you want to remove the need for glasses altogether or don’t mind them for reading, there is a premium IOL options for you. The PanOptix Multifocal Lenses are a popular choice because they allow you to see at near, intermediate, and far distances to reduce your need for glasses and contacts after surgery. If you have astigmatism, you may prefer Toric IOLs, which are specially designed to improve this refractive error.

How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?

It may take a week or two for your vision to stabilize enough for you to resume regular activities. Before your surgery, the trained staff at Kleiman Evangelista Eye Centers of Texas will provide you with a list of activities to avoid and proper aftercare techniques, including an eye drop schedule. With the right care, your eyes will continue healing in the months after your procedure.

How much is cataract surgery?

The cost of Cataract surgery ranges based on the surgical method and lens you choose.  Because cataract surgery is considered medically necessary if the cataract is advanced, insurance typically  covers all or a portion of your cost. Medicare usually covers all costs for a traditional cataract surgery with a monofocal lens. The team at Kleiman Evangelista can help you understand what vision correction procedure might be right for you and your eye health. Schedule a consultation to take your first step to freedom from glasses and contacts.

We will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that works for your vision goals and budget.