We’re excited to share with you the newest vision treatment option offered at our practice: the EVO Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL). While LASIK has been a popular and effective method for correcting refractive errors for years, EVO ICL offers a compelling alternative with its unique benefits and suitability for a broader range of patients.

What is EVO ICL?

The EVO ICL is an advanced type of implantable lens designed to correct myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. Unlike traditional contact lenses, which sit on the surface of the eye, the EVO ICL is placed inside the eye, between the iris and the natural lens. Made from Collamer, a biocompatible material that contains collagen, the EVO ICL provides excellent vision quality and comfort.

The Benefits of EVO ICL

Excellent Vision Quality

The EVO ICL offers superior night vision and exceptional clarity. Its unique material and placement ensure minimal aberrations and a more natural vision experience.

Removability

One of the standout features of the EVO ICL is that it is removable. If your vision changes significantly or if you decide to pursue other vision correction options in the future, the lens can be taken out, preserving the integrity of your natural eye.

UV Protection

The Collamer material in the EVO ICL has built-in UV protection, which helps safeguard your eyes from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays.

Quick Recovery

The procedure to implant the EVO ICL is minimally invasive, typically allowing for a rapid recovery and quick return to daily activities. Most patients experience significant vision improvement almost immediately after the procedure.

Suitable for a Wide Range of Patients

EVO ICL is an excellent option for individuals who may not be candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas, dry eyes, or high refractive errors. It offers a new possibility for those seeking freedom from glasses and contact lenses.

The EVO ICL Procedure

The EVO ICL procedure is straightforward and typically takes about 20-30 minutes. It involves the following steps:

1. Initial Consultation: During your initial consultation, a comprehensive eye exam is conducted to determine your candidacy for the EVO ICL. Measurements of your eye are taken to customize the lens to your specific needs.

2. Implantation: On the day of the procedure, numbing eye drops are used to ensure comfort. A small incision is made in the cornea, and the EVO ICL is carefully inserted and positioned in front of the natural lens.
3. Post-Procedure Care: After the procedure, you’ll be given eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure optimal healing.

Who is a Candidate for EVO ICL?

The EVO ICL is suitable for a wide range of patients, especially those who:

– Are between the ages of 21 and 45

– Have moderate to high myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism

– Have stable vision for at least a year

– Have healthy eyes free from disease or significant structural issues

Learn More About Your Options for Clearer Vision

EVO ICL represents a significant advancement in vision correction, offering a safe, effective, and reversible option for patients seeking to improve their vision. We’re thrilled to offer this leading-edge technology to our patients, providing them with more choices and the potential for outstanding visual outcomes.

If you’re interested in learning more about EVO ICL and whether it’s the right option for you, schedule a consultation with our office today. Let’s embark on the journey to clearer, more vibrant vision together.

The post EVO ICL: A Revolutionary Vision Correction Solution appeared first on Will Vision.

In the realm of vision correction, LASIK stands as the most effective option for people who no longer wish to rely on glasses or contacts. While commonly associated with addressing nearsightedness and farsightedness, LASIK also offers a transformative solution for another common eyesight issue: astigmatism. 

Astigmatism, characterized by blurred or distorted vision at any distance, can significantly impact daily life. However, with advancements in LASIK technology, individuals with astigmatism can now embark on a journey towards clearer vision and enhanced quality of life.

How Can LASIK Correct Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is the result of irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, causing light rays to focus unevenly onto the retina which results in blurred vision. Traditionally, corrective lenses such as glasses or contact lenses have been the primary means of managing astigmatism. While effective, these solutions may pose challenges in terms of comfort, convenience, and aesthetic preferences for many individuals. This is where LASIK emerges as a game-changer.

LASIK surgery for astigmatism involves reshaping the cornea to correct refractive errors. The procedure begins with the creation of a thin flap on the corneal surface, followed by the use of a specialized laser to precisely reshape the cornea’s curvature. By altering the cornea’s shape, LASIK aims to redirect light rays onto the retina uniformly, thereby correcting an astigmatism.

The Best Modern-Day Treatment for Astigmatism

One of the key advantages of LASIK for astigmatism is its precision. Modern LASIK techniques utilize advanced mapping technologies to create detailed three-dimensional maps of the cornea. These maps enable surgeons to tailor treatment plans specific to each individual’s unique eye anatomy, ensuring accurate and predictable outcomes. By precisely targeting the irregularities contributing to astigmatism, LASIK offers a customized approach to vision correction, maximizing the likelihood of achieving optimal vision.

Rapid Recovery with Minimal Risks

Moreover, LASIK for astigmatism boasts rapid recovery times and minimal discomfort compared to traditional surgical interventions. Modern advancements reduce the risk of complications, allowing patients to resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. Many individuals experience noticeable improvements in vision almost immediately following LASIK, with final results continuing to refine in the days and weeks post-surgery.

Better Vision Without Relying on Corrective Lenses

Beyond the practical benefits, LASIK liberates individuals from the constraints imposed by corrective lenses, fostering a newfound sense of freedom and confidence. Imagine waking up each morning to clear, unobstructed vision without the hassle of searching for glasses or dealing with the maintenance of contact lenses. LASIK empowers individuals to embrace active lifestyles, whether it’s pursuing outdoor adventures, engaging in sports, or simply relishing the beauty of the world unhindered by visual limitations.

Proper Pre-Surgery Screening Is Vital

It is important to acknowledge that LASIK, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks and considerations. While complications are rare, patients must undergo thorough evaluations to determine candidacy for LASIK and discuss any concerns with their doctor. Additionally, following post-operative care guidelines is crucial for optimizing your outcome and minimizing the risk of complications.

Say Goodbye To Glasses and Hello to Improved Vision

In conclusion, LASIK represents a revolutionary solution for individuals living with astigmatism, by offering a safe, effective, and personalized approach to vision correction. By utilizing advanced technology and precise surgical techniques, LASIK  unlocks a world of clarity by precisely reshaping the cornea. Contact us today to set up your free comprehensive consultation, and find out if you are a candidate for our advanced vision solutions.

The post How LASIK Can Reshape Vision for People With Astigmatism appeared first on Will Vision.

1. Dry Eye

After 40, expect your tear production to decline. After 65, most people deal with a burning and stinging sensation that feels like grit in their eyes. Over-the-counter drops can be beneficial for mild dry eyes. If symptoms are more severe, it’s time to consult an ophthalmologist for an eye exam and possible treatment.

2. Floaters

Those tiny squiggles, strings, and specks are typically harmless, caused by age-related gel-like fluid that fills the back of your eyes. But when they change from occasional to an increased number, it’s time to make a beeline to your eye doctor. It may be a symptom of a more serious eye condition like a detached retina.

3. Glaucoma

This eye issue is the leading cause of blindness in people over 60. It is the buildup of fluid not draining, leading to pressure and optic nerve damage. It is painless and can affect both eyes, but typically not at the same time. Early detection and treatment can avert blindness.

4. Macular Degeneration

This eye disorder attacks the macula, the center of the retina. It causes blurred or wavy vision and central vision loss. Although there is no cure, there are ways to slow down its progression and lower its risk.

5. Cataracts

Cataracts are the result of proteins breaking down in the lens. When it interferes with everyday activities, Dr. Will may recommend exchanging a clouded lens for an artificial one.

6. Diabetic Retinopathy

This condition occurs when excess glucose damages retinal blood vessels. These vessels may swell and leak blood or other fluids into the retina, causing blurred vision. Eye exams and keeping your diabetes under control is the best way to preserve your sight.

7. Detached Retina

When the retina separates from the back of the eye, the gel-like fluid at the eye center changes in texture and shrinks. The problem isn’t painful, but without treatment, the greater the risk of permanent vision loss.

8. Trichiasis

This common age-related eye condition becomes evident when the lashes rub against the cornea or conjunctiva (thin inner surface of the lids). It can cause eye irritation, redness, tearing, light sensitivity, and possible corneal abrasion. Treatment includes an in-office treatment to remove lashes.

9. Eye Strain

When your eyes get overworked or spend too much time in front of digital screens, they can become tired, itchy, achy, and dry. Driving long distances can have a similar effect. Follow the 20-20-20 rule. For every 20 minutes of watching a screen, focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

10. Blepharitis

This common condition is where the eyelid rims become inflamed. It is common with people who have skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or rosacea. It may produce swelling, burning, redness, crusty lashes, and itchy lids.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey to better vision, contact Will Vision & Laser Centers today. We’re excited to welcome you into our practice and for you to “See the Difference.”

The post 10 Warning Signs of Age-Related Eye Problems appeared first on Will Vision.

Since the advent of smartphones and tablets, researchers and eye care practitioners have wondered the same thing. Recent studies indicate it may be possible to control myopia by reducing its progression during childhood and among teens. However, at this time, there is no cure.

Nearsightedness Is Not an Eye Disease

Myopia is a refractive flaw caused by an elongated eyeball. This elliptical shape prevents light that enters the eye to not focus on the retina at the back of the eye. Instead, the light focuses on the front of the retina, causing objects to appear blurry in the distance.

Myopia Control

Finding the best treatment for myopia first requires an eye exam. Board-certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Brian Will can determine the severity of your myopia. He will suggest a clear pathway to regain clear vision from solutions as simple as wearing glasses to wavefront-guided refractive eye surgery. The earlier the diagnosis and treatment, the better the patient can avoid poor eyesight at school or work.

Glasses

Glasses are the most popular solution for nearsighted patients. It allows them to see objects in the distance with clarity. For our older patients who suffer from presbyopia, glasses may be multi-focal, offering correction for reading and distance built into the same set of lenses.

However, they may cause a collection of aggravations. These include physical discomfort on the nose and ears, inconvenience when participating in physical or sporting activities, and fogging in humid conditions. Multi-focal glasses can create a fish-bowl effect that can generate dizziness, difficulty walking, or going up and down the stairs.

Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are trendy, particularly since the introduction of soft contact lenses that can correct for astigmatism. Unfortunately, many people simply cannot tolerate the insertion or wearing of contact lenses. For others who have successfully used contacts in the past, they can sometimes no longer tolerate them due to the onset of allergies or dry eye. Fortunately, those who cannot wear contact lenses are frequently ideal candidates for advanced Wavefront-Guided Bladeless Lasik.

Laser Eye Surgery (LASIK)

LASIK surgery is a popular, safe, and highly effective option for nearsightedness. Its laser is designed to reshape your cornea, permitting light entering your eye to focus correctly. With today’s advanced technology, most patients are suitable candidates for laser vision correction.

Your specific condition dictates whether surgery can provide the results you want. It’s essential to note LASIK centers that utilize older technologies cannot deliver the best results available.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Will to discuss treatment options for myopia, contact his Vancouver, Washington, Salem, or Portland, Oregon offices today. Call (877) 542-3937 or complete our online contact form.

The post Myopia: Is There A Cure for Nearsightedness? appeared first on Will Vision.

Although bladeless is the more recent technique and has become the first choice with many surgeons, it doesn’t mean traditional Lasik is obsolete. Both forms have their pros and cons, and whichever you and your surgeon choose, you should expect an excellent outcome.

What Is Bladeless Lasik?

With so many different technologies and brandings, Bladeless Lasik comes in multiple names, including Intra-Lasik, iLasik, and Z-Lasik.  At Will Vision & Laser Centers, we offer Wavefront Guided Bladed Lasik, Custom Intralasik, and Bladeless Lasik, all performed by board-certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Brian Will.

There is much information online about Bladeless Lasik, and if you do some online searching, you will discover that the procedure is defined by the use of a femtosecond laser to create a thin corneal flap.

What is a Bladed Lasik?

Bladed Lasik employs a microkeratome instrument to create the corneal flap. During your consultation, one goal for Dr. Will is to determine which device will be best suited for your eyes. Although many surgeons use only the more advanced bladeless technology, there are actually instances when a microkeratome instrument is a better approach than a femtosecond laser.

Blade vs. Bladeless Lasik Effectiveness

Both types of LASIK are useful for improving vision. The femtosecond laser can generate a slightly enhanced quality of vision with fewer complications, but this is not true for everyone. It is important to know that the best choice for each person depends on various factors, like their general and visual health.

One study suggests bladeless Lasik may be the best choice. By exploring clinical results, researchers have determined that 68 percent of the bladeless patients achieve 20/16 vision on the first day after the procedure. The study concluded that the results remained similar at one-week and one-month after surgery.

Which Treatment is Best For You?

From a medical viewpoint, all Lasik procedures are safe and highly effective. Dr. Will’s objective is to match you with the Lasik technique best suited for your eyes. We believe it’s vital to maintain as many options as possible so we can offer our patients treatments that are customized to their unique circumstances.

A one size fits all solution doesn’t exist with LASIK surgery. It is the purpose of your eye exam and consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for one of our multiple options.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey to better vision, contact Will Vision & Laser Centers today. We’re excited to welcome you into our practice and for you to “See the Difference.”

The post Bladed vs. Bladeless Lasik appeared first on Will Vision.

There are many paths to better vision. At Will Vision and Laser Centers, we realize that a one-size-fits-all approach to improving vision doesn’t work. Our patients all come to us with vision complaints, but that is where the similarity ends. Some struggle with nearsightedness, others astigmatism. We help patients to resolve dry eye and age-related vision changes, too. Dr. Will is one of the most successful refractive surgeons in the Pacific Northwest and uses a customized approach to help each patient achieve their best vision. 

LASIK is certainly the most popular vision correction surgery in the U.S., but it isn’t the only option. Some patients will achieve better results by choosing one of these LASIK alternatives.

Wavefront Guided Bladeless LASIK

Technically a type of LASIK surgery, our Wavefront-guided bladeless LASIK procedures blow traditional LASIK results out of the water. This procedure builds on the vision-improving benefits of LASIK surgery by incorporating the latest technologies in refractive surgery to achieve a better result. 

How is Wavefront-guided bladeless LASIK better than traditional LASIK? 

• Gold Standard in Laser Vision Correction– We use the latest technologies available in refractive surgery to provide our patients with the gold-standard approach during every treatment. The Wavefront technology we’re currently using is the only type of LASIK trusted by the U.S. military. 
• Pre-treatment Mapping for Enhanced Results– Dr. Will prides himself on creating some of the best refractive surgery results in the Pacific Northwest. We use iDesign mapping technology to create a pre-treatment plan for your procedure. This extra step helps us to achieve better-than-expected results for many of our patients. 
• More Accurate- The Wavefront-guided technology that we’re currently using at Will Vision and Laser Centers is five times more accurate than previous generations of Wavefront technology and twenty-five times more accurate than glasses or contact lenses. 
• Less Injury and Trauma- A bladeless LASIK procedure means less damage to the eye and reduced trauma. For many patients, this means a shorter recovery period and less postoperative dry eye. 

Trust your vision to Wavefront-Guided bladeless LASIK, a superior alternative to traditional LASIK procedures.

Wavefront Guided PRK

PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy, is the original vision correction surgery. It was performed long before LASIK and offers some patients unique benefits. This procedure can be performed on patients with a thinner cornea, including those that do not qualify for traditional LASIK surgery. PRK is also a superior option for patients who are at risk for direct trauma to the eye. This procedure is popular amongst patients that participate in contact sports like boxing.

PRK recovery is longer than LASIK recovery, but the results are just as good as LASIK.  With a few specific advantages, some of our patients benefit greatly from having this option for vision enhancement.

Learn more about these LASIK alternatives by contacting Will Vision and Laser Centers. With offices in both Salem, OR and Vancouver, WA, we can conveniently serve patients throughout the Pacific Northwest.

The post 3 Lesser-Known LASIK Alternatives that Could Be Better for You appeared first on Will Vision.

Pregnancy is a time of change, not just for your body, but for the eyes too. Is LASIK safe during pregnancy? Is it best to wait for your refractive eye surgery until after baby arrives? Learn about pregnancy’s impact on vision and how LASIK surgery fits in. 

Pregnancy and the Eyes

No need to question your sanity if your vision starts to get a little fuzzy during pregnancy. Vision changes are a common and well-known symptom of pregnancy. One reason for vision changes is fluid retention. Hormones cause the body to retain more water, thus the bloating, puffiness, and swelling of pregnancy. Fluid retention can also happen within or behind the eyes, slightly changing the shape of the cornea, and modifying how light passes through the eye. This change in shape leads to a change in vision. 

Pregnancy causes dry eyes, usually due to a decrease in tear production. Many women struggle with wearing contact lenses during pregnancy and revert to using eyeglasses. Pregnancy also causes light sensitivity in some women. Sunglasses can help. 

If you have glaucoma, diabetes, or other health conditions that affect the eyes, talk to your doctor. Pregnancy can worsen the symptoms of these and other conditions. Regular visits with your eye care professional are recommended throughout pregnancy and after delivery. 

When Pregnancy Vision Changes Indicate a Problem 

Distorted or fuzzy vision during pregnancy isn’t usually a problem. Most women will return to their pre-pregnancy eyesight shortly after delivery. Some vision changes can indicate a more serious problem. Here’s what to watch for:

• Temporary vision loss
• Blurry vision
• Seeing flashing lights, spots, auras, or other visual distortions
• Light sensitivity

These symptoms could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy that can cause death if left untreated. Let your doctor know about all vision changes, and if you experience a dramatic shift or vision loss, emergency medical care may be needed.  

Why We Don’t Recommend LASIK During Pregnancy

Changes to the cornea’s shape are one of the biggest causes of pregnancy related vision problems. Interestingly, LASIK surgery also changes the cornea’s shape. While pregnancy causes the cornea to become misshapen, LASIK smooths and rounds it to restore clearer vision. 

Let’s think of the eye as a ball. Ideally, the eye is round, shaped like a baseball. A rounded eye allows light to pass through and reflect without error, creating a clear picture. Round is ideal, but if you wear glasses or contacts, your eye is probably shaped more like a football. The way your brain interprets vision relies on an a perfectly rounded eye, so when the shape is off, so is the vision. We call these vision distortions refractive errors. 

LASIK changes the shape of the cornea, rounding off the front of the eye, and restoring that ideal baseball-like shape. 

Things get tricky during pregnancy though. The extra fluid in the eyes has changed their shape. We could perform LASIK and create a rounded eye, but after pregnancy, the eye will change again, as fluid dissipates and the eye reverts to its usual shape. If we alter the eye during pregnancy, your vision may be negatively affected after pregnancy. LASIK is best suited for permanent vision changes, on patients with stable vision. Pregnancy is a time of change and not ideal for eye surgery. 

There is also the issue of the medications used during and after LASIK surgery. Developing fetuses are so sensitive. Due to the risk of birth defects, many medications aren’t tested on pregnant women, and the effects of these medications on a growing baby are often unknown. During pregnancy it is best to play it safe and avoid medications that aren’t necessary, including the medications used for LASIK surgery.  

If you’re pregnant, LASIK can wait. Wear glasses or contacts during your pregnancy and then contact us after baby is born to learn more about LASIK surgery in the Pacific Northwest.

The post Can You Have LASIK if You’re Pregnant? appeared first on Will Vision.

For many of our patients, LASIK offers lifelong results, improving vision for decades after the initial treatment. Don’t wait until your 30s or 40s to enjoy life without glasses. We can perform this procedure on adults of any age, including college-age patients. Poor college student? Don’t worry, we’re sharing our best tips for affording LASIK surgery on a budget. After all, we understand that tuition, housing, and fees are already a lot to handle.

Better vision is priceless, but it is still an investment. We want all of our patients to enjoy the benefits of better vision. The tips in this guide will make LASIK more affordable and achievable for many of our patients.

How Much Does LASIK Really Cost?

Price ranges for LASIK surgery are all over the board, but remember, quality isn’t always the same. At Will Vision & Laser Centers, we offer state-of-the-art LASIK, using the most advanced technologies and a skilled and experienced refractive surgeon for each procedure. This improves safety and outcomes for our patients. As you examine LASIK pricing, make sure you’re comparing apples with apples, by only comparing LASIK providers that use an experienced surgeon and the latest technologies.

In the Pacific Northwest, the price range for this type of LASIK is between $4000-$6000, an average of about $2500 per eye. Quotes that are significantly less than this likely aren’t using the best technologies or an experienced surgeon. Don’t try to save a few dollars and compromise your vision in the process. Your specific vision needs will affect the final price of your procedure.

Top Ways to Pay for LASIK Surgery

There are many different ways to pay for LASIK Surgery. Many of our patients use their savings or put the procedure on a credit card. Other options include:

• HSA or FSA- If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), LASIK is often a covered expense. These accounts allow you to pay for the procedure using pre-tax funds, offering a significant discount on your out-of-pocket costs.
• Tax Refunds- Tax time is a busy time at Will Vision & Laser Centers because so many of our patients use their refunds to pay for the procedure.
• Financing- You don’t have to have cash in hand to get LASIK. Financing options are available. We offer 0% financing plans and low monthly payments to our patients. No money down and almost anyone can qualify!

Investing in Better Vision

LASIK provides value in two different ways. First, after surgery, you’ll likely spend less on glasses and contacts. On average, a contact lens wearer will spend about $10,000 in their lifetime on hardware and supplies. After LASIK, many of our patients no longer require glasses or contacts. These savings are easy to calculate.

LASIK also provides a quality of life improvement. In our opinion, this is the biggest value of the procedure, although much harder to put a dollar value on. LASIK frees many of our patients from glasses and contacts, providing better vision than they had before. LASIK makes sports and outdoor activities easier, makes it possible to see immediately upon waking up, and provides more freedom when choosing sunglasses.

Invest in yourself and in your vision. The sooner you do it, the more value you’ll get from your procedure.

Better vision awaits! Contact us at 877-542-3937 to schedule a free consultation at our Vancouver, WA or Salem, OR offices. You don’t have to be rich to afford 20/20 vision.

The post Broke College Student? How to Afford 20/20 Vision appeared first on Will Vision.

Good vision doesn’t have an age limit, but unfortunately, LASIK can. Are you too young or too old for LASIK? Find out below!

Am I Too Young for LASIK?

Do you have a child that is constantly losing or breaking their glasses? Are you a teen that’s tired of wearing contacts? LASIK seems like the perfect solution for childhood eye problems. Adults don’t like hassling with glasses, why should children? Unfortunately, if you’re under 18, you’ll likely have to wait for LASIK surgery.

LASIK is FDA-approved for patients that are 18 or older. Vision changes throughout childhood and it is best to wait for the procedure. If you’re over 18, come see us to learn more about your LASIK options. Many adults, even young ones, are good candidates for the procedure.

If you’re hoping for LASIK in your late teens or early 20s, wait until your prescription has stabilized. Many patients choose to wait until they are in their mid-20s. We can perform LASIK sooner if your eyes are ready and you’re over 18.

The Perfect Time for LASIK

Once you’ve reached adulthood and have a stable prescription, you’re likely a good candidate for LASIK. Come into Will Vision and Laser Centers to explore your options and find out if you’re ready for surgery. Our LASIK patients vary in age, but are commonly in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.

If you’re interested in LASIK, come in and learn more. Don’t wait. There are many benefits to getting LASIK surgery sooner.

• Enjoy Your Results Longer- Many of our LASIK patients will enjoy better vision for life. Get LASIK in your 20s and you’ll enjoy 20 years more of better vision than LASIK patients in their 40s.
• Better Return on Investment- LASIK is an investment, one that becomes more valuable with time. At first, you’ll spend more on LASIK than you’ll save, but over time glasses and contact expenses add up. Get LASIK sooner and you’ll get more for your money.

Are you ready for better vision? Learn more about LASIK.

Am I Too Old for LASIK?

Vision starts to change in the 40s. Many of our patients complain that they can no longer see up-close. Reading a magazine or using a computer can become more difficult. These changes are caused by presbyopia. This condition eventually affects everyone, even those with perfect vision in their younger years.

Presbyopia occurs because of changes in the flexibility of the lens. This condition will continue to progress as the lens becomes stiffer. At first, vision correction isn’t needed, but eventually you may need reading glasses, a corneal inlay, Lifestyle LASIK, or a monovision treatment. We can treat presbyopia alone or in conjunction with LASIK surgery.

The eyes continue to change as you age. Older patients are more likely to develop cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and other vision problems. There is no set age where a patient becomes too old for LASIK, but health changes may disqualify you from the surgery at some point. LASIK can be successfully performed on patients in their 60s and 70s, provided that you’re healthy and a good candidate for the procedure.

Age Isn’t the Only Factor for Determining LASIK Eligibility

When it comes to LASIK candidacy, age is just a number. Once you’re old enough for LASIK, we worry more about your health than your age. Here are some factors that can complicate LASIK or may disqualify a patient.

• Pregnant or Nursing- Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect vision. You’ll need to wait for LASIK if you’re pregnant or nursing.
• Corneal Quality- LASIK reshapes the cornea. To do this effectively, the cornea must have sufficient thickness and quality. Corneal scarring may also affect your ability to have LASIK. If you have thin corneas or scarring from past procedures, we may be able to improve your vision using another procedure.
• Diabetes- Diabetes and diabetic retinopathy can disqualify a patient from LASIK. If you have diabetes, talk with us to find out if LASIK is still an option.
• Medications- Some medications aren’t compatible with LASIK. Bring a list of any medications and supplements you’re taking when you come in for your LASIK consultation.
• Certain Vision Problems- Cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment, dry eyes, and other eye problems can affect LASIK results. We’ll discuss your eye health in depth to ensure you’re a good candidate before surgery.
• Medical Conditions- Your overall physical health can impact LASIK results. We’ll discuss your health and any medical conditions you have.

These won’t necessarily disqualify a patient from LASIK, but they may. Come in for a consultation and we’ll help you determine if you’re a good candidate.

Whatever Your Age, Choose Will Vision and Laser Centers for Your LASIK Procedure

Young, old, or in between, we love helping patients discover their best vision through LASIK and other vision procedures. Call today!

The post Are You Too Young or Too Old for LASIK? appeared first on Will Vision.

Is your vision keeping you from the career of your dreams? Many people aren’t born with perfect vision, but we don’t think that should ever hold you back. With LASIK surgery many patients can get the vision needed to be successful in almost any career, even those requiring near-perfect vision.

Careers That Require Excellent Vision

Good vision is always beneficial, but in some jobs, it is critical. Excellent vision is a requirement for many careers and a huge benefit in countless others. We’ve created a list of some of our favorite careers that require good vision, although this list certainly isn’t exhaustive. Could your career benefit from better vision?

• Airline Pilot- Perfect vision is a must if you want to obtain the needed medical certificates to fly a plane. Glasses or contacts do meet the requirements, provided they can correct your vision to 20/20, but many pilots choose to have LASIK surgery for the convenience.
• Military- There are vision standards required for enlisting in the military. Specific careers within the military often have additional requirements, including vision requirements. Although glasses and contacts may be used in some cases, LASIK correction has many benefits for members of the armed services. Glasses and contacts can make it difficult to meet the strict lifestyle and fitness requirements of military service. Even more importantly, in times of combat, they can be inconvenient, and potentially dangerous.
• Air Traffic Controller– To keep the skies safe, air traffic controllers need excellent vision. The FAA has strict vision requirements for licensure and employment in this field. LASIK allows many air traffic controllers to perform their daily tasks without the need for glasses and contacts.
• Firefighter- Vision requirements for firefighters vary by location, but good vision is essential in this important field. Wearing glasses can make it more difficult to use some equipment and your lenses may get fogged up or dirty in fire situations. Contact lens users may be bothered by the smoke more than those without glasses.
• Police Officer- Police officers rely on their vision to effectively keep our cities safe. Vision requirements vary, but many officers opt for LASIK for convenient vision correction, no matter the situation.

And don’t forget about those careers where good vision isn’t a requirement but can be essential for easily and comfortably performing job tasks. These professions greatly benefit from 20/20 vision:

• Visual Artist/Designer– Artists use their eyes to create art. If you work in a visual profession, good vision can be an important aid to your career.
• Athlete– Sports can be difficult when using glasses and contacts. Many professional athletes choose LASIK to ensure that they can see clearly during important races, games, and events. High level amateur athletes, and even casual sports enthusiasts, also benefit from LASIK.
• Swimming Instructor/Lifeguard– Water and contacts don’t mix. Contact lenses generally shouldn’t be worn when participating in water sports and activities. Swimming instructors and lifeguards may choose LASIK surgery for a more convenient employment experience. Good vision is a must for water safety!

What career doesn’t require vision? You use your eyes every single day and most careers can benefit from an improvement in vision. Could LASIK help you to achieve career success?

Better Vision with LASIK

Many of the careers above require perfect vision naturally, with glasses or contacts, or through LASIK correction. This 20/20 vision can often be achieved using glasses or contacts, but not always. LASIK often provides better vision correction than can be achieved using glasses and contacts. Dr. Will is a highly experienced refractive surgeon that uses the best technologies available. This enables him to achieve the best results. Many patients achieve 20/20 vision and some experience even better results like 20/15 vision.

LASIK’s benefits don’t end there. There are many other reasons to choose LASIK surgery including:

• No more inconvenience from glasses or contacts
• See clearly when you wake up
• Long lasting results
• Financial savings in the long run

LASIK takes your vision to the next level, correcting refractive errors and eliminating the hassle of glasses and contacts. With precision results we can perfect the shape of the eye and improve vision dramatically. If you rely on your vision at work or at play, learn more about LASIK.

Choosing Your LASIK Provider

When your job depends on your eyes, you can’t afford to make mistakes. Unfortunately, quality varies largely amongst LASIK providers. For the best results and most effective LASIK technology, choose Dr. Will and Will Vision and Laser Centers for your procedure. We are top LASIK providers in the Pacific Northwest.

If you weren’t born with perfect vision, create it. Come into Will Vision and Laser Centers to enhance your vision with LASIK surgery today. Your career could depend on it!

The post LASIK for Your Career: Professions That Require Amazing Vision appeared first on Will Vision.