Ever wonder if Lasik eye surgery is worth it? Dr. Anthony Lee of Anthony Lee, O.D. & Associates Eyecare in Rockport, knows what he's talking about with Lasik Eye Surgery. He himself, had it done six years ago. We asked him what are the most common questions he gets asked about it.

Q: Why did you have this done yourself?

A: I've always worn glasses. It was a big inconvenience with swimming, water sports, camping, traveling etc. And I've been free from that for six years.  I've had patients who've had it done and saw how successful it was for them. At the time, I was asking myself 'Why haven't I done this?' At the time, it was new. So, I was thinking, 'Am I going to be happy with results? What if I go blind?’”

Q: Is it possible to go blind with LASIK surgery?

A: No. It's a real concern for many people, but no one has ever gone blind. Modern refractive surgery has a lot of safeguards in place to protect the patient.
 
Q: Will your vision be perfect afterwards?

We plan to get the patient the best vision he or she can obtain, which in many cases is better than 20/20, but depending on the individual, sometimes we can't guarantee you 20-20. You’ll still be better off than you were.

Q: Do you do the surgery here in Rockport?

A: We co-manage the surgery, so we do part of the pro-op screening here, but we refer patients to a few surgical centers around the state.  It depends on geographical, insurance and patient considerations.

Q: Is it outpatient or inpatient surgery?

It's outpatient. But first, before you schedule a surgery, you need to have a screening to determine whether or not you're a candidate.  We are a resource and can look at your prescription and let you know if it is even worth pursuing. The screening we do helps the surgeon when he or she does the consultation.

A: Is the screening like a regular eye exam?

No, it's not. You need to have a LASIK pre-op consultation because there are certain things the surgeons want answered that we look for.

Q: Is it safe?

It's extremely safe for the right candidate.

Q: Is it painful?

A: During surgery, there's no discomfort. Afterwards, depending on what type of procedure you have, the healing time is sometimes uncomfortable for a few days.

Q: Is LASIK covered under Obamacare?

A: We don't know yet. The new health care laws are so brand new. We approach each case as if it will be an out-of-pocket expense, but there are plans right now that are offering discounts.

Q: What's a ballpark figure of LASIK assuming it will be out of pocket?

It's typically around $3,000-$5,000 and you can finance it through the surgeon. This includes your pre-op, surgery and a year's worth of follow-up care.
 
Dr. Anthony Lee grew up locally, and takes pride in being able to serve the community he grew up in. His goal is to establish long-term modern eye care to the Midcoast community so generations of families can experience consistent, local eye care.  He enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, whether it be coaching their sports, outdoor activities, or taking care of their three bunnies, two dogs, two guinea pigs and a couple of fish.

For more information about LASIK or to contact Dr. Lee visit: Anthony Lee, O.D. & Associates Eyecare or call 207-236-2399.