Honolulu Eye Surgeon Answers Common Questions Patients Ask about LASIK

Dr. Alan Faulkner addresses prevalent patient concerns about LASIK vision correction, results, and safety in the Aloha Laser Vision blog.

Honolulu, HI – Since it was FDA-approved in 1999, LASIK surgery has emerged as the preferred method of refractive vision correction among millions of satisfied patients in America. Honolulu eye surgeon Alan Faulkner, MD has performed thousands of LASIK procedures at his practice, Aloha Laser Vision, providing the benefit of his expertise to patients considering laser vision correction. In a recent blog series, Dr. Faulkner has addressed many of the most common questions patients ask about LASIK. By sharing factual, thoughtful responses to these questions, he believes patients can gain a more realistic understanding of the procedure and comfortably move past any apprehensions or concerns they may have about LASIK.

Does LASIK Hurt?

In most cases, LASIK is considered a virtually painless procedure. Dr. Faulkner reports that the majority of his patients say they feel little or no pain during LASIK. He says anesthetic eye drops applied throughout the procedure provide an effective method for preventing and managing any potential physical discomfort. In addition, patients have the option to take a small pill before treatment that can relax them and enhance their comfort during LASIK.

Do I Have to be Awake During LASIK?

In order for Dr. Faulkner to perform the procedure correctly, patients must be awake during LASIK. The patient’s full, conscious participation is required for the crucial fixation portion of the procedure, he explains. At this stage, he directs the patient to focus his or her eye toward a target light and maintain a fixed gaze as the laser reshapes the cornea. He emphasizes that completing this step would be impossible if the patient was asleep or under general anesthesia.

Is LASIK Permanent?

The degree of visual improvement and longevity of results from LASIK can vary from patient to patient, Dr. Faulkner explains. It is natural for vision to change slightly in the years following LASIK; however, there is not typically a significant transition in vision among his patients. He reminds patients that, if necessary, touch-up LASIK procedures can be performed to treat changes in LASIK results.

Is LASIK as Safe as Contact Lens Wear?

When patients ask him to compare LASIK and contact lens wear, Dr. Faulkner describes LASIK as the safer option for long-term vision correction. Citing a 2006 study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, he reveals that due to a variety of factors, contact lens wearers have a much higher rate of serious eye infection and are more prone to vision loss than individuals who undergo LASIK. He goes on to say that, in some cases, the visual acuity achieved with LASIK can even surpass the degree of vision correction provided by contact lenses.

In addition to answers to questions like these, the Aloha Laser Vision website includes a variety of informational resources designed for potential LASIK patients, allowing them to learn about LASIK and determine if the procedure may be right for them. When patients choose an eye surgeon, Dr. Faulkner emphasizes the importance of selecting a board certified ophthalmologist with extensive experience performing LASIK who will take the time to perform a thorough evaluation and discuss their needs, goals, and concerns. Ultimately, for him and his colleagues, educating patients and developing customized treatment plans are vital investments in delivering successful outcomes.

About Alan Faulkner, MD

Dr. Faulkner is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and holds the title of lead eye surgeon at Aloha Laser Vision. He founded the practice in 2001 and has developed it into a state-of-the-art laser vision correction center that offers LASIK, cataract surgery, LASIK alternatives, and aesthetic treatments. Dr. Faulkner pursued his medical degree at Tulane Medical School, earning top honors as a member of Alpha Omega Alpha. After completing his internship in Internal Medicine, he went on to finish a residency in Ophthalmology and fellowship in Oculoplastics, Ocular Oncology, and Orbital Disease. Dr. Faulkner accepted a full-time position as Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at Tulane before entering into private practice. He is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, the International Society of Refractive Surgeons, and the International Society of Refractive Surgeons. He is available for interview upon request.

For more information about Dr. Faulkner and his practice, please visit alohalaservision.com and facebook.com/alohalaservision.

Contact:

Aloha Laser Vision
1100 Ward Ave., Ste. 1000
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
(808) 972-3937

Rosemont Media
(858) 200-0044
www.rosemontmedia.com