Contact Us

If you have more questions about laser vision correction or another procedure, contact our Chicago, Illinois practice today.

Click To Call






Cataracts and Laser Vision Correction FAQs - Answers from Our Chicago, Illinois Surgeons

Our practice has compiled answers to some of the most common questions we are asked about cataract surgery and laser vision correction from our Chicago, Illinois area patients.

LASIK and PRK FAQs

1. How long does it take to experience improved vision?

The time frame of vision improvement depends on the type of procedure performed and the individual. The majority of LASIK patients experience clear vision within 12 hours of surgery. PRK's healing time is a little longer, with most patients experiencing better vision between three and five days.

2. Is laser vision correction painful?

Our Chicago, Illinois area practice uses numbing drops, so patients generally do not feel pain with either the LASIK or PRK procedures. LASIK patients may experience slight discomfort similar to that caused by an irritating contact lens. This usually dissipates after 24 hours. Bandage contact lenses are used to reduce pain following PRK surgery, and some patients may need a pain medication for three to five days after the procedure.

3. Can I lose my sight because of laser vision correction?

All surgical procedures come with risks. While the risk of blindness is possible as a result of infection or scarring, the possibility of this occurring is extremely low. Our refractive surgeons will review all possible risks and benefits of the laser vision correction procedure during your consultation at our Chicago, Illinois area practice.

4. Will I be able to resume normal activities after laser vision correction surgery?

Once the eye heals following PRK or LASIK, patients can participate in any sports or other activities they enjoy. We recommend that patients avoid demanding activities for at least 48 hours after LASIK, and swimming should be avoided for one week.

5. Will insurance pay for PRK or LASIK surgery?

Insurance typically will not pay for PRK or LASIK surgery. Insurance companies are starting to recognize the savings and benefits of covering laser vision correction procedures; however, each company has different policies. During your LASIK consultation, ask our LASIK surgeons to dictate a letter to your insurance company to request coverage.

6. Will I still need glasses and contact lenses after laser vision correction?

The goal of laser vision correction at our Chicago, Illinois practice is to reduce or eliminate patients' dependency on glasses and contact lenses. However, some patients still use glasses for certain tasks, including driving at night and reading. It is important to note that after the age of 40 most patients will need glasses for near vision due to age-related farsightedness (presbyopia). LASIK does not correct presbyopia, a condition that is related to a loss of flexibility in the lens of the eye. Find out how CK® eye surgery can treat presbyopia, or contact our refractive surgeons about the possibility of undergoing monovision.

back to top

Cataract Surgery FAQs

1. Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?

The goal of cataract surgery is to reduce your dependency on glasses following the procedure. Our practice utilizes computer technology to help us accurately determine the power of your intraocular lens. This provides patients with better vision so glasses are thinner and side effects such as glare and distortions are reduced. While many patients can function without glasses, most will still need reading glasses.

2. What are the risks associated with cataract surgery?

The risks of cataract surgery include swelling of the retina (cystoid macular edema), infection, injury to the cornea, retinal detachment, and even blindness. We strive to reduce the risks of cataract surgery and thoroughly examine patients to ensure they are appropriate candidates for the procedure. While cataract surgery, as with all surgical procedures, does come with risks, cataract surgery at our Chicago, Illinois practice has a 98 percent success rate.

3. How soon can I resume normal activities after cataract surgery?

The majority of patients return to their daily activities between 28 and 48 hours following cataract surgery. The newer techniques incorporating no-stitch surgery and topical anesthesia provide patients with a faster recovery time than previous methods. Eye drops can be used to minimize the risk of inflammation and infection during the first month after cataract surgery.

For answers to any other questions about cataract surgery, laser vision correction, or another procedure, contact our Chicago, Illinois practice today.

back to top