How Long Does LASIK Last

One of the frequently asked questions regarding LASIK surgery is “ How long does LASIK last? ”  The answer to that question is, “It varies.”  Although LASIK, and especially the newer technique known as Z-LASIK, offers significant improvement for those with vision problems, there are some things the procedure cannot correct.

Natural Aging Process

The first thing to remember when asking, “ How long does LASIK last? ” is that with the aging process of our human bodies, come different challenges.  Eyes age just as much as knees and hips, and LASIK surgery cannot stop the natural aging of eyes, just as arthroscopic surgery can not stop the aging of your knees.

Presbyopia

When people reach their 40s and 50s, they often begin experiencing a condition known as presbyopia.  This occurs when the lenses in your eyes lose elasticity, becoming more rigid, causing the eyes to be unable to focus on printed matter or computer screens that are close.  It becomes evident when people hold menus at arm’s length or squint at their computer screen.  Moving closer to the printed matter makes the condition worse.  Because presbyopia is caused by a problem with the lens, and not the cornea, LASIK surgery cannot correct it.  How long does LASIK last depends on how long it takes a patient to develop presbyopia.  The majority of adults develops the condition after the age of 40.

Permanent Solution

The true answer to the question, “ How long does LASIK last? ” truly depends on the patient.  Although LASIK permanently corrects common adult eye problems in most patients, some patients do require adjustments after the initial procedure.  The length of time that LASIK lasts is based on each individual patient.

If you have more questions regarding how long does LASIK last, feel free to visit us at North Columbus Eye.

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Eyesight Exercises

Eyesight exercises are a natural way to help keep your eyes healthy and possibly reduce the risk of needing glasses or contacts.  Like other body parts, eyes need regular exercise to keep them in shape.  Although some eye problems occur as a result of the natural aging process, using vision improvement exercises could slow that process and help you delay the need for reading glasses.

Increase Blinking

Because computer users tend to focus on the screen intently, research shows that they blink less, which can lead to eye strain.  Blinking is the body’s method for keeping eyes moist, so decreased blinking can lead to dry, irritated eyes.  Every few minutes, blink your eyes a few times to increase the moisture, which keeps your eyes healthy.

Rolling and Warming Eyes

Rolling and warming your eyes are good eyesight exercises, especially if you have spent a significant amount of time working on a computer, or scouring through a lengthy report.  So, take a break!  Wash your hands, as paper and computer keyboards are known to contain bacteria that can cause eye infections. While you are washing or drying your hands, roll your eyes by looking up and then slowly circle them ten times clockwise, then ten times counterclockwise.  Once your hands are dry, rub your palms together to warm them and place them against your eyes for three seconds.

Focal Point

Every 20 minutes, find a focal point about 20 feet away and stare at it for 20 seconds.  You can also hold a pen at arm’s length, focus your eyes on it and slowly bring the pen closer until it is about six inches from your nose.  Then slowly move it back, keeping your eyes focused on the pen.  These exercises work the muscles responsible for focusing your eyes on objects at various distances.

These simple eyesight exercises can help keep your eyes healthy and promote better vision in a natural way.  For more information on vision improvement exercises, feel free to visit us at North Columbus Eye.

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What Is Z-LASIK

For those who ask, “ What is Z-LASIK? ”, the answer is that LASIK surgery is one of the most common forms for vision correction available today.  Patients suffering from common eye problems found in adults, such as astigmatism, nearsightedness and farsightedness have Z-LASIK, a result of recent technological advances. Not only is Z-LASIK less invasive, the recovery period is shorter.

What Is Z-LASIK?

LASIK is corrective surgery where a thin layer of the eye surface is moved aside, allowing a laser to reshape the cornea, improving vision. In the past, surgeons used a small blade to create a flap in the surface of the eye during LASIK surgery.

So what is Z-LASIK? It is the most advanced, innovative, blade-free procedure available, using only lasers to create the eye surface flap and reshape the cornea.

Z-LASIK Process

To further answer the question, “ What is Z-LASIK? ”, it is important to explain what the process includes. The doctor begins with a digital map, or WavePrint, of the imperfections that are unique to each patient’s eyes, using a computerized system known as the WaveScan. The system creates a three-dimensional map of the eye, which is then transferred to a computerized excimer laser, creating a customized procedure unique to each patient. A femtosecond laser is used to create a small flap based on the information provided by the computer, and the excimer laser precisely reshapes corneal tissue based on individualized data.

Benefits of Z-LASIK

To see clearly, light must be reflected directly onto the retina.  Vision problems occur when light is directed either in front of or behind the retina.  Once the cornea has been reshaped, the eyes are enabled to focus light more directly onto the retina. Ultimately, what is Z-LASIK? A procedure that puts light back where it is supposed to be in your eyes.

For those who suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, the question, “ What is Z-LASIK? ” can be answered: it is new technology that puts light in the right spot in your eyes so you can see clearly.  For more information on what is Z-LASIK, feel free to visit us at North Columbus Eye.

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Dr. Joseph Ceravolo and North Columbus Eye Center are celebrating the holidays with a Weekly Gift Card Giveaway.

ALL through the holidays, we are giving away gift cards to your favorite stores, valued at up to $250 dollars each There’s no purchase necessary, and you can enter to win at your free LASIK screening.

And remember, tis’ the season to use those flex plans and medical spending accounts for BIG tax-free savings on Z-LASIK. We offer affordable payment plans, too.

So call 1-800-282-5502 and talk to one of our friendly team members to schedule your FREE Z-Lasik screening.

Z-LASIK with Dr. C, VIP Care, GREAT savings AND the Weekly Gift Card Giveaway, all at North Columbus Eye Center.

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If you are deciding on the amount you want placed in your MSA for 2013 and are considering LASIK, schedule your free consultation to become informed of the amount that you should include in your designation. At North Columbus Eye Center we are committed to providing world=class laser vision correction at the best prices possible for our patients in the Columbus, Georgia region.

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Christy Jarvis, Radiologist

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Radio Personality, Wes Carroll of WDAK 540 AM

Wes Carroll30 from Miller Public Relations on Vimeo.

Radio Personality, Brian Thomas of WGSY Sunny 100

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Christie Culpepper, Medical Professional

Christie Culpepper 30 from Miller Public Relations on Vimeo.

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You do not have to suffer from:

• declining vision,
• blurred eyesight,
• poor depth perception,
• difficulty seeing at night or
• trouble reading.

Call us to schedule your appointment with Joseph Ceravalo, M.D.. “Dr. C” is an experienced cataract surgeon located in Columbus, GA and also practicing in Auburn, AL and Montgomery, AL. Get the GOLD STANDARD in cataract treatment with  Active Life Lenses which are designed to help you see both near and far. Most of our patients report having renewed vision without the need of reading glasses or bifocals.

If you or a aging loved one is suffering from poor vision, call 1-800-282-5502 for your cataract evaluation. We will be able to quickly assess your eyes, providing a diagnosis and the proper treatment recommendation.

Every eye is unique! So is every patient! That is why we treat each of our patients as the VIPs they truly are.

The post National Cataract Awareness Month at North Columbus Eye Center appeared first on North Columbus Eye Center News & Info.

Here are some of the factors associated with cataracts:

Sunlight and Radiation

Prolonged exposure to ultra-violet radiation has been shown to significantly increase the risks of developing cataracts.

Solution: Wear quality UV 400 lens sunglasses which block UV-A and UV-B rays. A quality pair of glasses should wrap around your eyes so that the sun cannot enter through the side of your glasses. Wear a broad brimmed hat outside.

Cigarette Smoking  

Smokers have higher cataract rates. It is thought that smoking may reduce blood levels of nutrients required for lens maintenance.

Solution: Simply put, commit to replace this habit with a healthy one. The decision to stop smoking will be one of the most beneficial health improvements you can make, reducing your chances of having numerous diseases and medical complications. 

Medicines

Corticosteroids, when used at high doses for long periods of time can lead to cataract formation. Oral prednisone and even inhaled corticosteroids, often used for asthma treatments, can cause an increase of the occurrence of cataract formation. (The benefits of inhalers for asthma, however, outweigh the risk of a cataract forming.)

Solution: Always ask your doctor or pharmacist any questions you have about the long-term effects of the medicine so you can weigh that into your decision about the risk and benefit of taking a certain drug.   

Injury to the Eye

Chemical damage, a penetration or blunt trauma can potentially lead to the development of cataracts.

Solution: Always wear appropriate safety eyewear when handling chemicals or working with tools.

Diabetes

Diabetics face an increased risk of cataracts and tend to see an earlier onset than those without the disease. Some research shows this is due to a sugar formed with glucose that accumulates and leads to a protein deposit on the lens.

Solution: Follow a low carbohydrate diet recommended for people with diabetes. Schedule regular eye exams and maintain excellent communication with your general practitioner and ophthalmologist. 

Obesity

Along with a myriad of other medical problems, obesity can lead to an increased risk of cataracts.

Solution: Refine your nutrition plan and exercise program with the goal of losing 1 pound per week on average.  If you struggle with obesity, consider joining a support group for weight loss encouragement. Fill your diet with healthy vegetables and a modest amount of fruits.

To schedule your cataract screening with Dr. Joseph Ceravolo at North Columbus Eye Center, call 1-800-282-5502.

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To show our appreciation for all that you do, we would like to offer you, your spouse, and immediate family members a $1000 savings on your All-Laser Z-LASIK and a $50 gift card to Staples following your procedure to get a head start on your school supplies!

We are extending this exclusive offer to teachers during the summer months! Simply download and print out this coupon:

Click to open in new window. Then Print.

Call to schedule your complimentary consultation, and present this ticket to us when you come in to receive your special teacher’s savings.

The decision for you and your family to have Z-LASIK is an important one, and will be happy to answer all of your questions!

Call and Schedule your free consultation:  1-800-282-5502

This exclusive offer ends August 15, 2012. Teachers & immediate family members must present proper identification when using this offer. This savings applies to bilateral LASIK correction surgery and cannot be combined with any other offer. The $50 Staples Gift Card will be given at the 1-day post-operative appointment. 

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Dr. Joseph Ceravolo been honored to restore the vision of service members and their families, and he will continue showing his support for years to come.

We offer special pricing and discounts for active military, veterans and their immediate family members.

Call us for your FREE LASIK screening.

1-800-282-5502

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