Laser technology may soon be used for corneal transplants

SINGAPORE: In what could be a medical breakthrough in Singapore, corneal transplants may soon be carried out using laser technology instead of by hand.

You've probably heard of Lasik surgery to correct short-sightedness. That same technology could be used to perform corneal transplants.

Clinical trials are underway and the Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC) hopes to offer it to patients within a year.

Professor Donald Tan, director of Singapore National Eye Centre, said: "Being able to use the laser to do most of the surgery means far greater precision, accuracy and that will immediately translate into much better vision, much better results and also of course, the surgery will be much easier."

SNEC is collaborating with a team in Italy and it hopes that some 80% to 90% of corneal transplants can eventually be performed with laser.

source: ChannelNewsAsia

Davis Vision Center Publishes Study Comparing LASIK Costs to Wearing Eyeglasses and Contacts Over a Lifetime

Salt Lake City, UT (PRWEB) September 21, 2009 -- Undergoing a LASIK procedure could save a 20 year-old up to $48,000 over a lifetime and could pay for itself in as little as three years, claims a recent in-house study by Davis Vision Center of Salt Lake City. The study is published at http://www.davisvisionmd.com/blog/lasik-costs/lasik-vs-glasses-contacts/.

The convenience alone of getting LASIK is generally worth the cost
Our goal in publishing this information is to help anyone who is researching LASIK costs to see the economic savings in the long run.
The study was based on approximations of industry-standard prices for vision correction in the United States, which are compared against the current U.S. average lifespan of 77.7 years of age.

The cost analysis also found that the yearly cost of wearing prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses combined can total up to $1,004, a price that exceeds the average costs associated with LASIK treatment ($3,000 with an annual eye exam estimated to cost $105) within three years.

Davis Vision Center compiled the study in response to a combination of an increasing number of inquiries at Davis Vision Center about the cost of LASIK treatment, and the apparent lack of published data available online. Very few resources are available for researching the difference between the cost undergoing a LASIK procedure and the cost of wearing prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses over a lifetime.

source: PR Web

Ultraelite – New advancement in laser eye technology

Ultralase, the vision correction specialist, has today announced the launch of a new treatment, Ultraelite. Ultraelite uses technology which has the potential to deliver the best quality of vision of any laser eye surgery currently available to the UK and Irish market and will be offered at Ultralase clinics nationwide.

Using technology more advanced than is available on any other laser platform, Ultraelite represents the pinnacle of laser treatment options and has promise to deliver the most precise and accurate laser vision correction available in the UK and Ireland.

The new surgery benefits from building on existing treatments using wavefront technology. Whilst existing earlier wavefront treatments produce excellent quality of vision and patient satisfaction, detailed scientific analysis identified one more way to make the treatment better still, the result being the development of Ultraelite.

Constantly at the forefront of vision correction, Ultraelite has undergone extensive development work and trials with outstanding results. Singapore was chosen as the venue for this development and testing, boasting a wealth of highly experienced laser surgeons. The results of the testing show that 99.3% of those treated reported improvement in the quality of their vision.

source: Realwire

In Mature LASIK Market, Competition, Recession Bring Down Prices

NEW YORK, NY -- (Marketwire) -- 07/08/09 -- Up to half of the world's population will need corrective vision at some stage in their lives. But only about 10% of them will be diagnosed and treated, leaving an enormous potential pool of customers. Fulfilling this demand for both traditional and advanced refractive vision correction (RVC) treatments will propel the ophthalmology market to become one of the largest healthcare sectors over the next ten years. According to a new report from leading life science market research publisher Kalorama Information, "Advances in Ophthalmology: Markets in the Treatment of Eye Disorders and Corrective Vision, 2nd Edition," the popular RVC procedure LASIK is performed between 1.1 and 1.4 million per year in the U.S. alone and physician fees exceed $2 billion per year.

LASIK surgery was first introduced more than ten years ago and is now a mature industry with many providers and healthy 95% patient satisfaction rate. But this pool of candidates is diminishing in part due to fears of falling in the 2-5% of patients who experience problems and partly due to the current recession -- in early 2009 some clinics reported a 50% decrease in surgeries compared to early 2008. Patients are waiting out the economy before spending money on elective procedures.

"The U.S. LASIK market is approaching saturation and that's great for consumers," says Bruce Carlson, publisher of Kalorama Information. "Competition between vision care centers, ophthalmologist offices, and eye clinics has pushed prices down making LASIK procedures affordable to many more prospective patients. Special advertised pricing, promotions, and payment and financing plans are also bringing in new patients."

source: Marketwire

Sharfstein Investigates LASIK Patients’ Complaints

FDA acting commissioner Joshua Sharfstein told FDA Webview 5/21 that he is looking into complaints of many LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) eye vision enhancement surgery patients that the agency has failed to honor its commitments to investigate their complaints since 2006 that the technique has unacceptable risks.

The primary issue in their complaints is that, with an adverse-reaction risk factor in excess of 5% (patient dissatisfaction) rate at six months, nobody is doing research on the procedure’s long-term quality-of-life. It involves either blade- or laser-cutting of flaps in the corneal surface layer that patients complain never heal. A post-operative trauma to the patient’s head at any time can forever open the flap and allow the entry of viruses and bacteria to the stromal layer beneath, with commensurate vision impairment and even blindness.

According to the injured patients, despite the procedure's 95% success rate, the extent of failures exceeds FDA’s allowable 1% limit and the agency has failed for three years to address petitions submitted since 2006 that sought enforcement of mandatory adverse event reporting (MDR) requirements on facilities performing LASIK procedures. They allege an effective FDA conspiracy with for-profit LASIK surgery surgeons in concealing true adverse event rates.

source: FDA News Alert

Boston Laser Eye Surgery Clinic use advanced Lasik procedures to improve Patient’s vision

(NewDesignWorld Press Release Center) -- A growing number of people are choosing to undergo the Laser eye surgery procedure known as iLasik. More than 2 million people in the USA have had laser eye surgery and demand is growing as awareness of its benefits grows among consumers. This new development in laser vision correction is helping people see without glasses or contacts, freeing them to live normally. Athletes and former athletes are also choosing to have their vision improved with iLasik. The success rate and satisfaction being reported is spreading the word about laser vision correction.

Boston Laser, a leading laser surgery clinic is lead by one of the renowned experts in the field of laser assisted surgery. Dr. Samir Melki is a leading authority on Cataract, Corneal and Laser Vision Correction Surgery. After more than 6,000 procedures, his experience and technical skills are much sought after by patients. It’s their only set of eyes and they are looking for specialists with the skill and proven technology.

source: NewDesignWorld

Kevin Niksarli, MD of Manhattan Lasik Center Announces Successful Use of iLASIK Procedure Incorporating Monovision

The recent FDA approval of iLASIK procedure for monovision now allows surgeons to more accurately correct the distance as well as the near vision of presbyopes, states Kevin Niksarli, MD of Manhattan Lasik Center. This has made LASIK, an already great and popular procedure, even more versatile for those with presbyopia.

New York, NY (PRWEB) February 17, 2009 -- Beginning in the mid 40s, everyone with good distance vision starts to experience blurred vision at near points, such as when reading a book, newspaper, putting on eye make-up or even working at the computer. This happens to everyone with good distance vision, even if they never used glasses before, states Kevin Niksarli, MD of Manhattan Lasik Center.

Kevin Niksarli, MD estimates that approximately 100 million people in the United States either have presbyopia, or will develop it by 2016. This is generating a huge demand for eyewear, contact lenses, and surgery that can help presbyopes deal with their failing near vision.

source: eMediaWire

Soldiers in line for laser eye surgery

Canada's military is moving toward surgically enhancing the vision of its soldiers, sailors and airmen, hoping to better equip them for combat and other demanding jobs -- without the hassle of eyeglasses or contact lenses.

The Department of National Defence recently issued a tender for contractors to develop a detailed laser eye surgery program, noting that corrected vision is particularly important in certain military trades.

The operation would give troops in the field an advantage over having to wear spectacles or contacts, said Dr. Walter Delpero, who was the Canadian Forces' chief of opthalmology until he retired from military service in 1996.

"The big question is, what happens if you lose your corrective vision," said Dr. Delpero, who is now in private practice and teaches at the University of Ottawa.

source: National Post

Abbott Expands Its Growing Medical Device Business With Acquisition of Advanced Medical Optics (AMO)

ABBOTT PARK, Ill. and SANTA ANA, Calif., Jan. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Abbott (NYSE: ABT) and Advanced Medical Optics (AMO) (NYSE: EYE) announced today a definitive agreement for Abbott to acquire AMO for $22 per share in cash, for a total transaction value of approximately $2.8 billion, inclusive of estimated net debt at the time of closing. Based in Santa Ana, Calif., AMO is a global leader in ophthalmic care, comprised of three segments: cataract surgery, laser vision correction (LASIK), and eye care products. Globally, AMO holds the number one position in LASIK surgical devices, the number two position in the cataract surgical device market and the number three position in contact lens care products.

"Through superior vision care technologies and service, AMO has established itself as a leader in this multi-billion dollar medical device segment. With AMO, Abbott is enhancing and strengthening its diverse mix of medical device businesses and gaining a leadership position in another large and growing segment," said Miles D. White, chairman and chief executive officer, Abbott. "Additionally, Abbott's significant global presence will help drive growth opportunities for this business, especially in international markets, where favorable demographics are driving demand for advanced eye care procedures and products."

source: Advanced Medical Optics

Dello Russo Laser Vision Opens New LASIK Eye Surgery Center in Long Island, NY

Long Island, NY (PRWeb) December 19, 2008 -- Dello Russo Laser Vision, family-run Tri-state area Lasik eye surgery center, announces the opening of its newest facility in Long Island, NY, making consultations and evaluations for LASIK eye surgery at 1979 Marcus Avenue, New Hyde Park - a location which is easily accessible to residents of the area. Having just opened its doors on December 10, 2008, Drs. Dello Russo and the staff believe that the center will fill a formerly unmet need in Long Island for their well-known brand of All-Laser Wavelight Lasik, using a combination of the Intralase and Wavelight Laser technologies. The procedure takes only 10 minutes from start to finish for both eyes.

According to Drs. Dello Russo, the area in which the new office opened has thus far had an absence of All-Laser Lasik WL machines and know-how, techniques which were introduced by Dr Jeffrey Dello Russo back in 2002. The Dello Russo family aims to correct that deficiency. Dr. Joseph Dello Russo said he was "surprised to find out that the Long Island area has been underserved for All-laser Lasik. Over the years we've noticed that a significant number of our patients had come across the East River to our Manhattan Office and decided to serve them better by opening a new office in a more convenient location."

source: eMediaWire

Beware Eye-Op ‘Tourism’, Warns LasikSurgeryRX.com

LasikSurgeryRX.com (www.lasiksurgeryrx.com), a Lasik surgery resource site, has today warned patients to take care when considering travelling abroad for eye-operations, and to ensure they do their homework before jetting off to save on medical bills.

(11 December 2008) - - LasikSurgeryRX.com (www.lasiksurgeryrx.com), a Lasik eye surgery information site, has today issued a stark warning to patients considering travelling abroad to save on medical bills, urging them to ‘fully consider’ the potential dangers and pitfalls of travelling abroad to receive medical treatment.

LasikSurgeryRX.com, which provides patients with information and resources relating to Lasik eye surgery to help better inform their decisions, has warned that inferior medical care, a lack of formal medical regulation and unhygienic conditions often encountered by travelling patients could pose a serious health threat.

source: WebWire

Laser clinics in optimistic mood

Despite the economic climate, 2008 has witnessed the largest expansion of refractive surgery clinics since 2002, the findings of Optician's annual refractive surgery survey have revealed.

The survey identified 128 clinics in the UK, 23 more than 2007 and further clinics have opened since the research was conducted.

According to the chief executives of Optical Express and Ultralase, the UK's largest laser treatment specialists, the refractive surgery market can sustain recent expansion by both companies and is well-placed to weather the recession.

'We're still seeing growth from our new clinics and those we've owned historically,' said David Moulsdale, chairman and chief executive of Optical Express. Acknowledging that the market would start to be affected by recession, he added: 'People's discretionary spending is becoming more careful.'

source: Optician Online

LASIK Washington DC Surgeons Announce Winner ...

26-year-old Jennifer Boozel of Baltimore is the winner of the Destroy Your Glasses Contest, sponsored by the Eye Doctors of Washington in the DC and Maryland area. Jennifer's video was picked out of 15 submitted entries. The winning submission can be viewed at edow.com.

The Destroy Your Glasses contest invited individuals to come up with the most creative way of obliterating their glasses and capturing it on video. The prize? A free laser vision correction procedure at Eye Doctors of Washington, a Washington DC LASIK center. What's more, everybody who entered a video in the contest received a $1000 discount on LASIK, and our Eye Doctors of Washington donated a pair of eyeglasses for each submission.

PR Web

Refractive Surgical Practices In HIV-Positive Persons

ScienceDaily (Nov. 11, 2008) — People who are HIV-positive are now living longer, healthier lives, thanks to antiretroviral therapy and other treatment advances, and the number of HIV-positive people seeking LASIK, intraocular lenses following cataract removal, and similar procedures is likely to grow in coming years.

Ahmad A. Aref, M.D., Pennsylvania State Hershey Eye Center, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, and colleagues recently investigated current care practices and opinions by sending a confidential online questionnaire to members of the International Society of Refractive Surgery of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

source: Science Daily (press release)

Economy takes toll on Lasik eye surgeries

By TERRY KINNEY

The number of vision correction surgeries performed by one of the nation's largest Lasik providers continues to plummet, mostly because money is tight and people are buying bread and milk rather than expensive cosmetic or elective surgery, analysts say.

At LCA-Vision Inc., which operates 77 LasikPlus vision correction centers in 33 states, the number of procedures is down by half from a year ago, and the company has slashed advertising, cut staff and suspended dividends.

"It's 99 percent the economy," said analyst Peter Bye, who follows the industry for Jefferies & Co. in New York.

"It's very substitutable," he said of Lasik. "Take the typical customer, a 30-year-old or 35-year-old who has been wearing contacts for 15 years. If money's tight, he says 'I'll do it next year.'"

source: Business Week

Historic LASIK Surgery Performed on Quadriplegic Patient to Preserve his Communication Abilities

BERGENFIELD, N.J., Nov. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Eric Abrue
(30), a quadriplegic patient who is dependent on a
respirator since he was eight years old, had a historic
and highly successful LASIK procedure performed
by Drs. Jeffrey and Joseph Dello Russo. Eric fell from
a monkey bar in a playground in 1986, breaking his
neck and severing his spinal cord. Since that day, he
suffers from Quadriplegia, being totally unable to move any
part of his body below his upper neck down and is able to
breath on his ownonly for a short period of time without
the use of a respirator.

Eric is the first quadriplegic patient in the world who
underwent LASIK, using the Wavelight Eye-Q and a special
WL Swivel Chair. Eric, who is now thirty, is dependent for
all his needs on an around-the-clock care giver. He runs a
successful music production company, attends a college
online and designs his own T-shirt line. He was using
eyeglasses to see his computer clearly but in the last few
months has found out that wearing glasses did little to clear
up his vision, and the images became after
using the computer for 14-16 hours per day.

source:PR Newswire

LCA-Vision Named Provider for New Insured Lasik Product

CINCINNATI, Oct 28, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- LCA-Vision Inc, a leading provider of laser vision correction services under the LasikPlus(R) brand, today announced that it will serve as a network laser vision provider for a new insurance benefit underwritten by a nationally known, "A-" (Excellent) rated insurance carrier, Standard Security Life Insurance Company of New York. The benefit provides members covered by sponsoring health plans a one-time allowance from the insurance company of up to $600 for covered laser vision correction procedures. This benefit is being made available to healthcare plans, employer groups and unions.

"Procedure cost is a major factor in the patient's decision-making process. We believe this innovative product will act as a catalyst for insured members interested in laser vision correction, but concerned about the price," said Steven C. Straus, Chief Executive Officer of LCA-Vision. "To our knowledge, this is the first offering of this kind for laser vision correction services and we are delighted to be named a network provider."

source:MarketWatch

LasikAbroad.co.uk Helps Patients Book Medical Holidays for Laser Eye Surgery in Turkey

Huskvarna, Sweden -- October 24, 2008 -- Western Europeans who want to save money on laser eye surgery have a new option thanks to the Lasik abroad service offered by Salveo Travel. The company arranges medical holidays for patients to receive laser eye treatments in Istanbul where, for less than the cost of surgery alone at home, patients can receive equal or better treatment from qualified doctors and a return ticket to Turkey. Medical holidays are designed to give patients more affordable treatment options with a short holiday in one trip, all while saving money.

“Sometimes the cost of laser eye surgery at home can be a deterrent to getting treatment,” says Habil Kantur, founder of LasikAbroad.co.uk . “Getting eye surgery in Turkey is a solution for those who want the Lasik surgery, but who don’t want to pay the high prices associated with the procedure in the UK or elsewhere. The surgery costs much less in Istanbul due to cost of living differences, but the quality is equal to or better than the same treatment at clinics elsewhere. We only collaborate with accredited and highly qualified doctors and medical facilities. Patients can spend less than they would at home, but get more – quality treatment and a short holiday at the same time.”

source: MM Newswire

A ray of light for the myopic

NEW technology with the ability to track rotation of the eyeball during laser eye surgery is offering hope to those with serious myopia and astigmatism.

Such patients were previously deterred from opting for Laser-Assisted In situ Keratomileusis or LASIK, a type of refractive laser eye surgery used to correct myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness) and astigmatism, said consultant ophthalmologist and eye surgeon Dr Michael Law Sie Haur.

The new technology called Zyoptix Advanced Control Eyetracking (ACE) adjusts for eye rotation in any direction within 15 degrees during LASIK surgery, thus ensuring that the laser beam is always aimed at the correct intended spot on the cornea.

article: NST Online

Akorn, Inc. Announces the FDA Approval of Akten(TM) Ophthalmic Gel 3.5%

LAKE FOREST, Ill., Oct 08, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Akorn, Inc. (AKRX:
AKRX today announced the FDA approval of NDA 22-221 for Akten(TM) Ophthalmic Gel 3.5%, a topical, ocular anesthetic formulation. The NDA was filed June 29, 2007 following the results from a randomized, placebo controlled, Phase III clinical trial in 209 subjects who met the primary endpoint in all three dosing arms (p<0.001). Akten(TM) is the first NDA ocular anesthetic approved by the FDA in four decades, and will be launched in October 2008.

Akten(TM) is a novel, unit dose, preservative free lidocaine gel product, stored at room temperature and intended to be used in any ocular procedure that requires a topical anesthetic agent. The estimated market size for Akten(TM) is approximately eleven million procedures annually. The major procedures include cataract surgery, refractive surgery, Lasik surgery, and intravitreal injection. Akorn has filed two United States patents and one International patent on the formulation and method of use of Akten(TM).

source: MarketWatch

Lasik Washington DC Surgeons Use Online Video Sharing as a Platform to Promote and Host Free Lasik Contest

Washington, D.C. (Vocus/PRWEB ) September 26, 2008 -- No longer needing glasses or contacts could become a reality for many people, thanks to the Destroy Your Glasses Contest. Due to the current economy, some with impaired vision may have had to put their dream of getting safe, quality LASIK on hold. However, they no longer have to wait. The Eye Doctors of Washington are willing to help foot the bill.

Everyone wins in the Destroy Your Glasses Contest. Those desiring LASIK surgery are invited to portray their take on the most creative way to destroy their glasses. No matter how creative or uncreative a video is, each entrant will receive $1,000 off LASIK, while one lucky winner will receive LASIK, completely free of charge.

source: PR Web

Thinner flaps, corneal sculpting make LASIK viable in high myopia

Advances in LASIK technology allow for successful LASIK procedures in higher degrees of myopia, two experts say.

With the ability to create thinner flaps, LASIK is the procedure of choice in –4 D to –10 D cases, Ioannis Pallikaris, MD, PhD, said at the World Ophthalmology Congress in Hong Kong.

Dr. Pallikaris, an innovator of LASIK technologies, said femtosecond laser technology can be combined with surface ablation, using topography- or wavefront-guided treatment, to custom sculpt the corneal tissue. In almost all cases, it is possible to have residual corneal thickness of more than 300 µm, he said, but an ideal thickness of 130 µm is a recent topic of discussion.

source: OSN Supersite

Ohio-Based Lasik Surgery Company Struggles

CINCINNATI -- The number of laser eye surgery procedures conducted by publicly traded LCA-Vision Inc. dropped 38 percent in the second quarter from a year ago, a reflection of industrywide troubles.

In a faltering economy, consumers are more likely to choose glasses or contacts instead of shelling out thousands of dollars for the usually popular Lasik eye surgery.

"When times are good, some people won't hesitate to spend $2,000 or $4,000 for an elective corrective treatment," said University of Missouri-St. Louis professor Stephen Moehrle. "In tough times, putting on a pair of glasses becomes a little more tolerable."

Cincinnati-based LCA-Vision has recently had layoffs, a salary freeze and large cuts to its advertising and marketing budgets. The 38 percent drop in procedures in the second quarter compared to the same time last year led to a 30 percent decline in quarterly revenue.

source: Newsnet5

NJ LASIK Doctor Has Rare Dual Certification

There are two organizations which provide certification of LASIK surgeons based on surgical skills and results. Dr. Daniel Goldberg has a rare dual certification from both the Council for Refractive Surgery Quality Assurance (an independent, nonprofit, patient and consumer health organization that evaluates and verifies the quality of the surgeries provided by select refractive surgeons in the United States), and the ABES(American Board of Eye Surgeons).

The ABES(American Board of Eye Surgeons) promotes the highest possible quality ophthalmologic surgical care. The ABES certification programs include a process through which a surgeon’s actual surgical skills and judgment are tested and observed by his or her peers. The ABES tests surgical skills in cataract/intraocular lens surgery as well as LASIK and corneal transplantation. In 1989, Dr Goldberg was the first eye surgeon in New Jersey to have surgical skills in cataract and intraocular lens surgery certified by ABES. In 2002 he became one of 2 New Jersey LASIK surgeons to have surgical skills certified in LASIK by ABES.

source: PR-USA

Patient selection key to success of LASIK monovision for correcting presbyopia

LASIK monovision is a viable and increasingly accepted method for correcting presbyopic and pre-presbyopic refractive surgery candidates, according to results from a recent study.

In addition, crossed monovision, in which the dominant eye is corrected for near vision, may be applied successfully in suitable candidates.

"Although the overall success of monovision was good, patient selection is extremely important, as not every patient can adapt to monovision," the study authors said. "Patients selecting monovision should also be aware that the reliance on one eye for distance vision makes an enhancement procedure more likely than if bilateral distance vision is chosen."

source: OSN Supersite

Leading Technology Introduced at Atlantic Laser Vision Center in New Jersey

LASIK eye surgery is one of the most commonly performed elective surgical procedures in the United States. With approximately 1.4 million LASIK procedures performed each year, the demand for the procedure has continued to increase. With that demand comes the need for continued advancements in technologies and equipment in laser vision correction.

Dr. Daniel BGoldberg, Director of Refractive/LASIK Surgery, at The Atlantic Laser Vision Center in Little Silver, NJ has a long-standing commitment to providing the most advanced technology for all his procedures, and that’s a great asset for potential patients.

The Atlantic Laser Center uses the WaveScan Wavefront analyzer which can more accurately customize Excimer laser treatments. The WaveScan is estimated to be 25X more accurate than measurements with lenses used in eyeglasses and contact lenses. Dr. Goldberg states that “the results with customized LASIK have elevated the quality of results, and the results with all-laser Femtosecond laser flaps have elevated both the safety and the quality of results. We have reached a new level in LASIK.”

source: WebWire Press Release

Alternative to LASIK Increases Momentum with U.S. Consumers

MONROVIA, Calif., July 14 /PRNewswire-/ -- STAAR
Surgical Company (Nasdaq: STAA) announced today that
Visian ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens), a tiny, flexible
lens implanted in the eye to correct refractive errors,
continues to gain momentum with consumers in the U.S.
market. The Visian ICL is often referred to as the
"implantable contact lens" by patients and physicians.
According to preliminary data from the company, U.S.
sales of the Visian ICL grew 38% over the prior year
period. During the second quarter this accelerating rate
of Visian ICL growth contrasts sharply with an even more
significant decline in LASIK vision correction procedures.
According to a leading provider of LASIK vision
correction services, laser-based refractive procedures had
an approximate40% decline during the second quarter.
STAAR Surgical today also announced the launch of a newly
revamped and enhanced website,
http://www.visianinfo.com, designed to help consumers
more clearly understand the benefits of the Visian ICL.

source: PR Newswire

Pediatric LASIK safe, effective, stable over 10 years

HONG KONG LASIK in children was shown to be safe, effective and fairly stable over 10 years of follow-up in a long-term study presented here.

"LASIK in children has the same efficacy, predictability and safety margin of others. Of course, your nomogram should be changed depending on the condition of the other eye," Osama Ibrahim, MD, said at the World Ophthalmology Congress. Dr. Ibrahim said he has been performing surgical refractive procedures on pediatric patients since the introduction of refractive keratometry and has completed more than 800 LASIK cases to treat myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.

In the study he presented, Dr. Ibrahim showed safety, efficacy and stability data for 264 eyes of 264 patients who all had 10-year follow-up data.

source: OSN Supersite

New Study On Costs of LASIK Surgery vs. Lifelong Contact Lens Costs

/24-7PressRelease/ - OCEANSIDE, CA, June 15, 2008 - If you wear contacts or glasses and have considered LASIK Surgery but are concerned about the cost, think about this - LASIK will pay for itself in about three years.

How could that be? Consider that LASIK is a one-time fee, while glasses and contact lenses require a lifetime commitment.

A doctor's visit to examine your eyes every two years is the recommended guideline for people who wear glasses. If your prescription has changed, you will need new glasses with lenses and frames. Even if you're fortunate not to need a stronger prescription, you may still want new frames to update your appearance. In addition, some people have more than one pair of glasses just in case one gets broken or misplaced. And let's face it, glasses, especially designer frames, are increasingly expensive and usually not covered by your health care plan.

source: 24-7 pressrelease

STAAR Surgical's LASIK Alternative Expands U.S. Market Gains

MONROVIA, Calif., June 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/
-- STAAR Surgical Company (Nasdaq: STAA), a leading
developer, manufacture and marketer of minimally invasive
ophthalmic products, today announced that Visian ICL(TM)
(Implantable Collamer Lens) sales in the U.S. for the second
quarter have already exceeded the total sales for both the
first quarter of 2008 and the second quarter of 2007. The
company also announced the launch of its first viral
marketing initiative, a national consumer video competition,
"BEYOND LASIK - the Visian ICL(TM)," which will
begin with local contests driven by leading Visian ICL
surgeons throughout the U.S.

"The Visian ICL continues to expand its U.S. market
presence," said Barry G. Caldwell, President and CEO of
STAAR Surgical. "We have seen several factors contribute
to the Visian ICL's strong sales growth including new
media attention to the Visian ICL as an alternative for
LASIK, additional consumer awareness that not all
potential refractive patients are candidates for LASIK
and the Visian ICL Growth Program(TM) for
physicians and practice refractive administrators.

source: PR Newswire

Soldiers Receive Free Memorial Day Lasik Surgery Before Going to Iraq

BERGENFIELD, N.J., May 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Two-dozen members of the Army's 2nd Battalion, 113th Infantry Regiment yesterday captured the offices of Dello Russo LaserVision, getting ready for their upcoming deployment in Iraq. Instead of shooting targets with blurry eyes, they were undergoing a Lasik procedure that allows them to have 20/20 vision within an hour.

Drs. Joseph and Jeffery Dello Russo marked the 3rd time in what became an annual celebration of patriotism, providing free corrective eye surgeries to members of the U.S. military before they go to their missions overseas.

The Dello Russos have completed another round of Free Lasik surgeries in their Manhattan location, helping another dozen of soldiers to get rid of their eyeglasses and contact lenses. Some of them have been waiting for years to get this treatment, but were not able to afford it before receiving bonuses following their return from Iraq.

source: PR Newswire

Global Laser Vision Surpasses 1,000 i-LASIK (iLASIK)

San Diego, CA (PRWEB) May 22, 2008 -- Global Laser Vision Medical Centers, the premier center for Laser Vision Correction in San Diego and Orange County, has now treated over 1,000 vision correction patients with advanced i-LASIK, also known as Intralase or All Laser Lasik.

The IntraLase FS (femtosecond) replaces the older technology of using a hand-held microkeratome with a blade to create a corneal flap, in the first step of LASIK. The computer-guided, ultrafast laser reduces the most severe, sight-threatening LASIK complications related to the use of microkeratomes.

Since its establishment in June 2000, Global Laser Vision Medical has remained a leader and at the forefront of LASIK technologies, with over 50,000 surgeries performed by our doctors. In striving to offer their patients the state-of-the-art vision technology in Southern California, the surgeons of Global Laser Vision have become experts in the use of advanced i-LASIK, an instrument that has even been fully accepted by NASA and the military for their personnel.

source: PR WEB

Presby-LASIK may be better option than multifocal IOLs, study shows

PARIS — Both multifocal IOLs and presby-LASIK are viable solutions for presbyopia correction, but the latter has a greater range of visual acuity at different distances, according to a study presented here.

"Presbyopic LASIK using the Gaussian ablation type, which means a +1.7 D, 3-mm optical zone, slightly decentered 1 mm inferiorly and nasally, is able to provide an acceptable level of distance vision, on average 20/25 to 20/20 and up to 20/18 in some cases, along with an acceptable or even very good level of near and intermediate vision," Michael Assouline, MD, said at the meeting of the French Society of Ophthalmology.

In comparison, multifocal IOLs have shown less satisfactory visual performance.

source: OSN Supersite

Advanced Medical Optics Receives FDA Clearance For iFS(TM) Advanced Femtosecond Laser

New 5th Generation Laser Essential Part of iLASIK(TM) Technology Suite

SANTA ANA, Calif., May 14, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE: EYE), a global leader in ophthalmic surgical devices and eye care products, today announced U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance for the iFS(TM) Advanced Femtosecond Laser.

Capable of creating a corneal flap during the LASIK procedure in less than 10 seconds, the iFS(TM) Advanced Femtosecond Laser's unique inverted bevel-in side cut angle is designed to provide a virtually effortless flap lift, increase post-operative flap adhesion and enhance the biomechanical stability of the post-LASIK cornea. With full customization capabilities, it also produces an elliptical flap to enhance surgical options and includes IntraLase-Enabled Keratoplasty (IEK).

source: Advanced Medical Optics

Experts urge clearer warnings about Lasik risks

A panel of medical advisers — mostly eye doctors wearing glasses — listened to tales of woe and wonder on April 25 from people who sought to get rid of their specs through Lasik surgery.

What was clear by day's end: The vast majority of people undergoing laser eye surgery benefit and are happy, but a small fraction, perhaps fewer than 1 percent, suffer serious, life-changing side effects: worse vision, painful dry eye, glare, inability to drive at night.

Advisers to the Food and Drug Administration heard about a dozen of those stories April 25 — including a father reading his son's suicide note — and then concluded that today's warnings for would-be Lasik recipients should be made more clear.

source: Monterey Herald

Los Angeles Laser Vision Correction Quality of Life Survey Reviewed By FDA

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--More than 99% of patients reported their quality of life to be as expected or better after laser vision correction surgery, even though 2% report complications that are frequently or always problematic, according to a national patient survey conducted in conjunction with Los Angeles refractive surgeon Dr. Andrew Caster for the nonprofit Council for Refractive Surgery Quality Assurance.

Preliminary results of the patient survey were presented to the US Food and Drug Administration during a special hearing last week. Dr. Caster was one of six doctors throughout the US that surveyed 1,800 vision correction patients. This confidential survey was collected and independently quantified by the Council for Refractive Surgery Quality Assurance.

"This survey has told us, not surprisingly, that the quality of life for the vast majority of patients was to be as expected or better after laser vision correction surgery,” said Dr. Caster. “Even patients who reported complications indicated that they would have the surgery again.”

source: Business Wire

Federal panel seeks clearer warnings on Lasik vision-correction surgery

WASHINGTON - In fury and despair, patients harmed by Lasik eye surgery told federal health advisers Friday of severe eye pain, blurred vision and even a son's suicide. The advisers recommended that the government warn more clearly about the risks of the hugely popular operations.

About 700,000 Americans a year undergo the elective laser surgery. Like golf star and famed Lasik recipient Tiger Woods, they're hoping to throw away their glasses, just as the ads say.

And while the vast majority benefit - most see 20-20 or even better - about one in four people who seeks Lasik is not a good candidate.

source: CBC News

As Economy Slows, So Do Laser Eye Surgeries

Call it the Lasik indicator. With the weak economy forcing consumers to cut back on discretionary spending, the number of laser vision-correction surgeries has been falling — as it did during the last recession.

More than 800,000 Americans underwent Lasik surgery in 2007, a slight increase from 2006. But the numbers started slumping along with the economy in the second half of last year. And industry analysts are now predicting a Lasik recession.

“We’re forecasting a 17 percent drop for 2008,” said David Harmon, president of Market Scope, an eye surgery market research house.

source: BlueRidgeNow.com

Allegretto Wave System Expands the Boundaries of Candidacy for Lasik

HOUSTON, TX--(MARKET WIRE)--Apr 8, 2008 -- As a result of eight years of experience with the Allegretto Excimer Laser Systems, doctors at the International EyeCare Laser Center in Houston have found a dramatic increase in the number of candidates eligible for lasik surgery.

"Not all lasik centers apply the same methods," says Dr. Charles R. Moore, Founder and Medical Director of International EyeCare Laser Center. "Because of our experience with the WaveLight Allegretto system we have a better probability of being able to perform lasik on even the most unlikely candidates."

International EyeCare Laser Center is the only private practice in Houston exclusively dedicated to laser vision correction and uses the WaveLight Allegretto Excimer Laser System, the fastest and most precise laser vision correction treatment available.

source: Yahoo Finance

ASCRS To Participate In and Co-Fund Study on Post-LASIK Quality of Life with U.S. Food and Drug Administration

CHICAGO - (Business Wire) The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) today announced that it will participate in a post-LASIK quality of life study with the Joint LASIK Study Task Force, which includes the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the National Eye Institute (NEI), ASCRS and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. ASCRS also announced that the ASCRS Foundation has committed funds to support this effort.

The FDA reaffirms that LASIK is both safe and effective. The Joint LASIK Study Task Force now will examine LASIK’S impact on the quality of patients’ daily lives. Simply defined, quality of life refers to a patient’s ability to perform the activities of daily living, everything from driving, daily routine, family life, career and sports performance, to personal appearance, after LASIK. While the FDA reports that nearly all patients are satisfied with their procedure, the study will seek to qualify LASIK’s benefits and provide greater understanding of the very few patients whose expectations are not met with the procedure, with the goal of identifying ways to enhance patient care.

source: ASCRS.org

Owner of Renton laser eye surgery center sought

LEVI PULKKINEN

State health officials are investigating the owner of a Renton laser eye surgery center after he unexpectedly left town and closed his business more than a month ago.

Dr. Christopher Phillips, owner of Lomas Eye Care Center, shut the doors on his clinic Feb. 29 after telling staff members that they were no longer needed, health officials and former Lomas employees said.

Now, the state Health Department is investigating Phillips after complaints that he canceled appointments without notifying patients and failed to forward medical information to other providers.

Founded by Dr. Richard Lomas, the business, near Valley Medical Center, was one of a few centers in the Seattle area providing laser eye surgery.

source: seattlepi.com

Selecting a Laser Eye Surgeon: Does Experience Matter?

LASIK is one of the most successful medical procedures practiced today, with over 95 % of patients reporting satisfaction with their LASIK results. This is largely because the variables of the LASIK procedure deal largely with optics, one of the most exact sciences. In fact, because of the exactitude of optics, many of the steps in the LASIK operation are becoming completely automated. So, to what extent does experience matter in LASIK surgery?

The Eye Surgery Education Council (ESEC) is a subdivision of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS). Its stated purpose is to provide patients with accurate, accessible information about laser eye surgery and other refractive surgeries and to promote discussion between patients and physicians.

The ESEC lists experience as one of the key factors in selecting a laser eye surgeon, although it notes that the number of procedures performed and the length of time practicing are only two variables among many to consider.

source: Best Syndication

Custom Lasik vs. Traditional Lasik

Custom LASIK is a huge advance on traditional LASIK. There are several companies that manufacture LASIK systems for custom LASIK, each with its own trade name. The VISX CustomVue system is one of the best-known systems, used by many highly-qualified LASIK surgeons who want to give their patients the best vision correction possible. There is also Alcon’s CustomCornea® and the Bausch & Lomb Zyoptix system, both excellent.

Custom LASIK, regardless of which company manufactured the equipment, uses a mapping system to diagnose the exact contours of each of your eyes. This data then guides the laser in your treatment. This is known as Wavefront-guided LASIK, and it yields excellent vision results. Traditional LASIK does not use a Wavefront system.

source: Best Syndication

Lasik and Children

/24-7PressRelease/ - March 23, 2008 - LASIK (Laser-Assisted in SItu Keratomileusis) is a safe and effective procedure approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use on adults aged 18 or older. However, it is not approved for children, and it is not likely to be in the near future. To understand why, let us briefly talk first about how the eye works and how LASIK corrects it.

How the Eye Works
The eye is a like a camera, with a pair of lenses, one the lens, the other the cornea, that focus light reflected from objects onto the back of the eye, the retina. At the retina, the light is interpreted and transformed into a signal that is transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve.

source: 24-7 Press Release

Lasik critics feel shunned by FDA

Sabine Vollmer

As federal regulators prepare to hold their first hearing on how complications from laser eye surgery affect a patient's quality of life, patients are worried that they are being shut out.

The Food and Drug Administration has said it will hold a public hearing on the issue this spring, but patients who have requested to speak at the event cannot get confirmation from the FDA on the date, time or location, said Michael Patterson, a lasik patient from Atlanta.

source: The News&Observer

FDA-backed task force scrutinizing data on quality of life after LASIK

By Matt Hasson

Leaders in ophthalmology have responded swiftly to a syndicated news report that presented suicide as a potential complication of LASIK surgery, citing a review of patient satisfaction data that showed 95.4% of LASIK patients were satisfied with visual outcomes over the last decade.

According to information provided by the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, the United States had similar rates to the rest of the world.

Kerry D. Solomon, MD, spearheaded the review as part of a large-scale collaborative effort to assess post-LASIK patient satisfaction and quality of life. Dr. Solomon reviewed data from 19 studies involving about 2,200 patients. Final results are expected to be presented at the upcoming ASCRS meeting in Chicago, according to the society.

source: OSN Supersite

Ophthalmic organizations, government agencies join forces to discuss clinical trial for dissatisfied LASIK patients

SAN FRANCISCO — The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery and the American Academy of Ophthalmology, in conjunction with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the National Eye Institute, have assembled a joint task force charged with formulating a viable study design to identify dissatisfied post-LASIK patients, define their significant symptoms and evaluate the influence of those symptoms on quality of life, according to a joint press release from ASCRS and AAO.

The collaboration marks the first time that the FDA has called for counsel from external organizations concerning the design of such a study, the release said.

source: OSN Supersite

Surgeon: New excimer laser exceeds expectations

ALICANTE, Spain — With the new Schwind Amaris excimer laser system, which "redefines perfection in corneal refractive surgery," the sixth generation of excimer lasers is born, according to a surgeon speaking here at the Alicante Refractiva International meeting.

Jorge L. Alió, MD, PhD, Ocular Surgery News Europe/Asia-Pacific Edition Editorial Board Chairman and chairman of the Alicante meeting, described his early surgical results and impressions of the laser system.



source: OSN Supersite

LASIK Patients Report More Than 95 Percent Satisfaction Rate Worldwide, First Study of Global Scientific Literature Finds

FAIRFAX, Va. - (Business Wire) Worldwide, an average 95.4 percent of LASIK patients are satisfied with their new vision, according to the first review of the world body of scientific literature, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) announced today.

With 16.3 million patients having had LASIK worldwide, and more than a decade of clinical study and technological innovation behind it, LASIK is considered among the most successful elective procedures available today.

“We find that there is solid evidence in the world’s scientific literature to affirm that there is an exceptionally high level of satisfaction in patients who have had LASIK surgery. While no surgery is perfect, certainly the 19 peer-reviewed studies of 2,199 patients show extremely high satisfaction rates,” said Richard L. Lindstrom, M.D., president of the ASCRS.

source: The Earth Times

LASIK safety

Richard L. Lindstrom, MD

This is in response to "LASIK failure toll can be high; FDA to study effects of complications from eye surgery; some blame them for depression, suicide" (News, Feb. 25). The premise of the article was based upon incomplete, unpublished, anecdotal research, and does a disservice to the millions of Americans who elect to undergo vision correction surgery each year.

It was irresponsible reporting to draw a connection between LASIK and suicide. In fact, the authors of the referenced Emory University study abandoned their work because they were concerned about possible bias in reporting suicide rates in LASIK patients.

read Dr. Lindstroms complete post in chicagotribune.com

Athletes love Lasik surgery; team managers, doctors wary of its risks

Bill Lubinger and Mike Kroner

Babe Ruth set slugging records with a lazy eye. Had there been a surgery to correct it, no telling what stratosphere the Bambino may have reached.

Unlike steroids or human growth hormone, Lasik eye surgery -- a procedure that uses lasers to correct common vision problems -- isn't banned from sports for unnaturally boosting physical ability. So even athletes at the top of their games, from LeBron James and Tiger Woods to sure Hall of Fame pitcher Greg Maddux, have gone under the laser.

In fact, Woods and Indians shortstop Jhonny Peralta, who had Lasik done before the 2007 season, are ad pitchmen for the companies that tweaked their vision.

complete article: Cleveland Plain Dealer

Scientists discover who is likely to get dry eye syndrome after LASIK surgery

Scientists at Schepens Eye Research Institute have found that people with a certain low level of tear production are more likely to develop chronic dry eye syndrome after LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis), laser refractive surgery to correct near- and far-sightedness than those with more plentiful tears. Their research, published in the January issue of Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Science, may offer reliable prescreening criteria for ophthalmologists and patients.

“These findings should help ophthalmologists determine if pretreatment is necessary before surgery or if surgery is appropriate at all for an individual,” says Dr. Darlene Dartt, director of the Military Vision Research Program at Schepens Eye Research Institute and the principal investigator of the study.

complete article at Physorg.com

Johns Hopkins APL Licenses Eye Drops That Reduce Laser-Surgery ‘Haze’

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) of Laurel, Md., has licensed a nationally and internationally patented formula for eye drops that could speed healing and prevent cloudiness after laser vision-correction surgery.

The exclusive licensing agreement allows Illinois-based AdPharma, Inc. to develop, seek regulatory approval for and market the drops, invented by APL researcher David Silver with collaborators Adrienne Csutak, András Berta and József Tőzsér of the University Medical School of Debrecen, Hungary.

Studies have shown that nearly one in 10 laser-surgery patients develops hazy vision several months after the operation. In some cases the effects can last a year or longer. The APL-developed drops would prevent this “haze” from forming in the cornea.

source: Johns Hopkins University

InView Vision Laser Surgery Center Continues Revolutionizing Eye Health with the Optomap(R)

InView, The Leader in Vision Correction now offers the optomap(R) Retinal Examination as a standard testing procedure to all patients who visit the practice for a pre-LASIK vision correction surgery evaluation. The optomap(R) is a comprehensive retinal examination that allows the doctors at InView the ability to get a comprehensive view of the eye prior to laser surgery. InView is the only Atlanta LASIK center to offer the revolutionary technology of the optomap(R). The optomap(R) retinal image provides a much larger view (200 degrees) of the back of the eye -- the retina -- than conventional eye exam equipment.

source: PR Inside

LASIK failure toll can be high

Sabine Vollmer

RALEIGH, N.C. - Patients who undergo vision-correcting laser eye surgery sign a release form with an extensive list of risks, but some researchers and former patients say a potential complication is not mentioned: depression that can lead to suicide.

In response to patient complaints, the Food and Drug Administration plans to convene a large, national study to examine the relationship of LASIK complications and quality of life, including psychological problems such as depression.

Chicago Tribune

SynergEyes, Inc. Launches New Post-Surgical Hybrid Contact Lens

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- SynergEyes, Inc.,
of Carlsbad, CA, recently launched a revolutionary hybrid
contact lens designed for people who need further vision
correction after undergoing refractive vision surgery.
SynergEyes(R) PS (post-surgical) is also designed for
people who have experienced some type of corneal
trauma or suffer from certain degenerative vision
conditions.

SynergEyes(R) PS hybrid contact lenses combine two
materials -- a rigid gas permeable center with a soft
lens outer skirt. The "hybrid" design bonds a "hard"
and "soft" contact lens together resulting in a one-of-
a-kind vision correction option that provides crisp, clear
vision for surgically altered corneas in a comfortable,
healthy contact lens.

source: PR Newswire

It's all in eye of beholder

Juan C. Rodriguez
South Florida Sun-Sentinel

JUPITER - Mark Hendrickson isn't the first pitcher to undergo LASIK eye surgery, but he might be the first that did it to improve his hitting.

After going 1 for 46 with 24 strikeouts since a mid-2006 trade to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Hendrickson determined he should do better. His vision was a problem.

"My hitting is what pushed me to really do it," said Hendrickson, who the Marlins signed last month to join the rotation. "I wasn't producing the way I wanted to. I expect more of myself at the plate so it got to the point where I said it's time to do it and I did it. I'm seeing everything great. I've only had it for a month, but I'm real happy with it."

complete article at Sun-Sentinel.com

Laser Eye Surgery Prices Plummet In UK

Prices for laser eye surgery treatment in the UK have fallen by up to 80% for correction of short sight. However, tremendous variation between clinics means a difference in price of up to £4,000 for the same glasses prescription.

London, UK (PRWEB) February 20, 2008 -- Recent pricing changes for laser eye surgery across the UK mean people can pay nearly £4,000 more to get rid of their glasses at one clinic compared to another. This means confusion for the 10 million UK adults who suffer from short-sight and who now wonder how price relates to quality of care and results.

For a mild short-sighted prescription, the prices per eye for laser eye surgery range from £295 up to £2,250 using similar technology, surgical training and treatment types.

sourec: PR Web

Troops with contact lenses may get free laser surgery (UK)

David Rose and Michael Evans

Combat troops who wear contact lenses and struggle to cope in the dusty conditions of Iraq and Afghanistan may be offered free laser eye surgery, The Times has been told.

Lieutenant-General Louis Lillywhite, the Surgeon-General, said that he had ordered an internal review because of the pressure he was under to find a solution for troops complaining of eyesight difficulties.

Soldiers have contracted corneal ulcers and other infections after wearing contact lenses for days at a time. Wearing glasses is often considered impractical in the heat of combat. General Lillywhite said that providing laser surgery for combat troops who would normally have to wear corrective lenses was being considered.

source: Times Online

3i eyes growth following deal for Ultralase

LASER eye surgery company Ultralase has been bought for £174.5m by private equity company 3i which plans to expand the group throughout the UK.

Leeds-based Ultralase has treated thousands of patients including Olympic medallists Sir Steve Redgrave, Jonathan Edwards and Sharron Davies as well as Dragons' Den star Duncan Ballantyne.

The company currently operates 17 eye laser clinics in the UK including one on Albion Street in Leeds.

Yorkshire Post

Zecotek Announces New Surgical Laser

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Feb. 14, 2008) - Zecotek Photonics Inc. today announced the introduction of its SL 1.4 Fiber Coupled Laser, designed specifically for surgical applications in the ophthalmic market where it can be used for a variety of coagulatory procedures.

"We are very pleased to be introducing this new laser," said Dr. A.F. Zerrouk, Chairman, President, and CEO of Zecotek. "The SL 1.4 Fiber Coupled Laser has been specifically designed to meet a need in a medical market segment with large growth potential. The laser will form the major component in ophthalmic laser systems. We see this as another excellent example of Zecotek's strength in the innovation and commercialization of leading edge photonic technologies."

Zecotek

LASIK MD is named one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies

MONTREAL, Feb. 12 /CNW Telbec/ - LASIK MD, Canada's leading provider of
laser vision correction, is proud to announce that it is a winner of Canada's
50 Best Managed Companies for 2007. This prestigious award is part of a
national competition sponsored by Deloitte, CIBC Commercial Banking, National
Post and Queen's School of Business.

"We are honoured to be recognized as one of Canada's 50 Best Managed
Companies," said Dr. Mark Cohen, President and Co-Founder. "This award is a
testament of our dedication to excellence, state-of-the-art technology, and
affordable pricing making laser vision correction available to all."

CNW Group
 

Lasik prices expected to fall further when private sector publishes bill sizes (Singapore)

SINGAPORE: Inflation and healthcare costs may be on the rise but the cost of Lasik surgeries has bucked the trend.

Eye doctors expect rates to fall further when the private sector joins the public sector in its current practice of publishing the size of their medical bills.

Singapore has one of the highest rates of myopia in the world, so there is a ready pool of people eager to do away with glasses and contact lenses through Lasik surgery.

Channel NewsAsia

Costs Go Down, Confidence Goes Up as Consumers Take Advantage of Easy, Safe and Affordable LASIK Surgery

LAKE WORTH, FL--(Marketwire - February 8, 2008) - Since LASIK surgery emerged as a viable option to correct vision problems, practitioners estimate that only ten percent of America's eligible population has had the procedure. That's a substantial number, but it still begs the question: What is the other 90 percent waiting for? If recent trends are an indicator, they're not waiting for much anymore.

LASIK surgeons report that a growing number of consumers who say they put off the appointment for many years while continuing to wear glasses and contacts are now coming in for LASIK. Why are they taking the step? Surgeons say the most prominent reasons are increased confidence and improved affordability.

Marketwire

San Diego Refractive Surgeon First to Provide iLASIK

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Approved for use on consumers almost a decade ago, more than 11 million LASIK procedures have been performed to-date, making it the most-common elective surgical procedure in the U.S. Today, laser vision correction is more safe and effective than ever before with the introduction of the iLASIK procedure. The iLASIK procedure is the innovative combination of two customizable technologies, IntraLase with the Advanced CustomVue treatment.

Dr. Sandy T. Feldman, an FDA clinical investigator and world renowned corneal expert and refractive surgeon, is one of the first in San Diego to perform the iLASIK procedure. “This is a very exciting combination of technologies,” said Dr. Feldman. “Now almost everyone has an opportunity to be a candidate for 20/20 or better vision. There has never been a better time to have LASIK surgery.”

Business Wire

FDA to study possible link between depression and failed Lasik

Sabine Vollmer, Staff Writer

Patients who undergo vision-correcting laser eye surgery sign a release form with an extensive list of risks, but some researchers and former patients say a potential complication is not mentioned: depression that can lead to suicide.

In response to patient complaints, the Food and Drug Administration plans to convene a large, national study to examine the relationship of lasik complications and quality of life, including psychological problems such as depression.

Malvina Eydelman, an ophthalmologist with the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health, wrote in an e-mail message that the scant clinical data available "failed to suggest significant problems following lasik surgery," but she said the FDA wants a broad and systematic review.

Read complete article at newsoberver.com

The iLASIK(TM) Procedure Debuts with Leading Technologies Creating the First 100 Percent Tailor-Made Vision Correction Procedure

SANTA ANA, Calif., Jan. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- When it comes to achieving 20/20 vision, no two eyes are alike -- and, as such neither should be your vision correction. Launching nationwide, the iLASIK(TM) procedure is the very first vision correction procedure designed to be 100 percent custom- fit from beginning to end. The iLASIK(TM) procedure addresses the uniqueness of your two eyes -- from the individual curvature of your corneas, to the microscopic nuances of your eye's anatomy -- designed to deliver the exact correction you need to achieve 20/20 or better vision.

"The iLASIK(TM) procedure has been a decade in the making, with each new advancement furthering the next," said Dr. Kerry Solomon, professor of ophthalmology at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and an iLASIK(TM) patient. "With this unveiling, we've reached the final frontier. Quite honestly, there is nothing better on the horizon. "The iLASIK(TM) procedure eliminates confusion for patients seeking the very best in laser vision correction surgery."

source

LASIK Risks

Shelley Walcott

Two million people have changed their lives with LASIK surgery. Most people who have LASIK are pleased with the results, but we met one Milwaukee man who says he was better off before.

Robert Scott is far-sighted, and has worn glasses since second grade. He says he was sick of his 4 eyes, and LASIK seemed like the answer. "More or less to not have glasses no more, and to see clearer," he explains.

TodaysTMJ4.com

TLCVision Opens Second TLC Laser Eye Center in Greater Toronto Area

ST. LOUIS, MO--(Marketwire - January 28, 2008) - TLC Vision Corporation (NASDAQ: TLCV) (TSX: TLC), North America's premier eye care services company, today announced the opening of a new TLC Laser Eye Center located at 50 Burnhamthorpe Road West, Suite 100, Mississauga, Ontario L5B 3C2. The company also has a TLC Laser Eye Center located at 4101 Yonge St., Suite 100, Toronto, Ontario M2P 1N6. Mississauga is also home to TLCVision's Canadian headquarters.

Jim Wachtman, President and Chief Executive Officer of TLCVision, commented, "The opening of our second TLC Laser Eye Center in the Greater Toronto Area allows us to leverage the strength of the Company's optometric co-management relationships along with our targeted direct to consumer advertising featuring former TLC patient Tiger Woods. Our strategy focuses on the strong TLC brand integrating quality care, experienced doctors, the latest technology, and a long-term commitment to results."

Marketwire.com

LCA-Vision Announces the Opening of its 73rd LasikPlus Vision Center

CINCINNATI, Jan. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LCA-Vision Inc. (Nasdaq:
LCAV), a leading provider of laser vision correction services under the
LasikPlus brand, announced the opening of its 73rd LasikPlus vision center
in Savannah, Georgia.

Similar to other LasikPlus vision centers throughout the country, the
new vision center is staffed with an experienced team of health care
professionals, and is equipped with technologically advanced lasers and
diagnostic equipment. This range of advanced technology allows the company
to offer patients IntraLase to create the corneal flap, as well as
traditional laser vision correction and advanced custom wavefront
procedures.

PR Newswire

International Stem Cell Corporation to Provide Corneal Epithelial Cells for Use in Photorefractive K

www.internationalstemcell.com - www.internationalstemcell announced today that it will be providing corneal epithelial cells, derived from its Parthenogenetic stem cells and human keratinocytes (a type of skin cell), for use in Federal Drug Administration (FDA) clinical trials aimed at creating a tissue transplant technology to improve photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

source

Cranky LASIK Survivors

I just did a little search of the Eye on Vision blog archives and came up with an interesting statistic. Among the 258 posted blogs, 25 specifically address LASIK corneal refractive surgery. That's ten percent of all blogs...who knew?!

It's funny, I did not start out intending to flood the blogosphere with so many accounts of this very common procedure. There is just so much news about LASIK developments combined with rabid consumer interest in refractive surgery.

Well, here goes #26!

What happens to that small minority of refractive surgery patients who undergo "successful, uncomplicated LASIK" but end up miserable with blurry, uncomfortable eyes?

complete article - Eye On Vision

Patients at Risk as Eye Laser Surgery Sector Booms (Ireland)

24-7PressRelease - DUBLIN, IRELAND, January 05, 2008 -- The past six months have seen major growth in the number of clinics offering laser eye procedures throughout the State. There are now more than 20 clinics specialising in laser eye surgery in Ireland, compared with four just five years ago.

Concerns have now been raised about the use of doctors imported from the UK and elsewhere to carry out the surgery, often being flown in and out of the State in a 24-hour period.

"As such they can't offer continuity of care and this is not a healthy set-up," said Dr Arthur Cummings, consultant ophthalmologist at the Wellington Eye Clinic in Dublin.Describing the sector as a "minefield", Prof Michael O'Keeffe, consultant ophthalmologist at the Mater Private Hospital, said the huge growth in the area in recent months was a result of SSIA windfalls.

source article

LASIK works well, according to long-term study of highly myopic patients

Philadelphia, December 28, 2007 – Laser surgery to correct vision problems has been in use since the early 1990s. Photorefractive Keratotomy (PRK) is typically used to correct low to moderate myopia, while laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is preferred for high myopia corrections. Although over 18 million LASIK procedures have been performed worldwide, there is still some controversy regarding the maximum correction possible and efficacy with this technique. In an article published in the January 2008 issue of the American Journal of Ophthalmology, researchers from Miguel Hernandez University, Medical School, Alicante, Spain; and Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey; report on a study of high myopia patients ten years after LASIK surgery. The findings show that LASIK for myopia over -10 D is a safe and effective procedure in the long-term.

complete article

Lasik surgery becoming more commonplace

By Kathleen Dayton

Few people outside of the medical profession might understand the term “laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis.” But even schoolchildren are likely to have heard about Lasik, the laser surgery used for vision correction that has become one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in the country.

“It is definitely becoming more mainstream,” said David Harmon, president of MarketScope, a market research agency focused on opthamology.

About 1.4 million such surgeries are performed annually, which translates to about 750,000 people, since not all patients have both eyes treated. The number of laser eye surgeries has held steady during the past several years, Harmon said, and the average cost of the surgery nationally is now $2,000 per eye.

source

State: Eye doc performed needless surgeries

The state suspended the medical license of a Manhattan eye doctor Thursday, charging that he performed unnecessary laser eye surgeries on six patients, the same day the state was again called to task for how it disciplines doctors.

Dr. Martin Ehrenberg, a board-certified ophthalmologist with offices in Manhattan and Great Neck, faces 32 charges of medical misconduct -- including gross negligence -- for treatments he administered from 1998 through late 2006, according to documents.

Newsday

Dr. Dello Russo Introduces the New EYE-Q Lasik

NEW YORK, Nov. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- At a media event held today at the Dello Russo Laser Vision Center in Manhattan, New York, prominent lasik surgeons Drs. Joseph and Jeffrey Dello Russo introduced the most advanced eye laser by Swiss laser maker Alcon, which goes "beyond Custom-cornea".

Since Dr. Joseph Dello Russo introduced laser eye surgery to the nation in 1990, he has long been associated with the "firsts" in lasik evolution, leading the implementation of procedures such as Down-Up, Flying-Spot, Tracking, and in recent years the No-blade lasik (2002), as well as Custom-Cornea by Alcon (2003).

source

Making Laser Surgery Safer for RK Patients

Newswise — A new study being presented at the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s 2007 Annual Meeting suggests that the laser surgery can help improve and possibly stabilize the vision of patients who have radial keratomy (RK) while preventing previously common side effects from the surgery.

In the study, 22 patients who had previously undergone RK and subsequently developed unanticipated changes in prescriptions for correcting vision underwent advanced surface ablation with miomycin C, an anti-scarring medication. Most patients experienced a significant improvement in corrected and uncorrected vision without any complications.

source

LCA-Vision to Begin Nationwide Rollout of IntraLase Femtosecond Technology

LCA-Vision Inc. (Nachrichten) (Nasdaq: LCAV), a leading provider of laser vision correction services under the LasikPlus
brand, announced today plans for a nationwide rollout of Advanced Medical Optics' (NYSE: EYE) IntraLase® femtosecond technology at its LasikPlus vision centers throughout the United States. This decision was made by LCA-Vision in conjunction with its Medical Advisory Board following a comprehensive six-month review and clinical testing process. LCA-Vision's Medical Advisory Board is comprised of a panel of LasikPlus
surgeons who are recognized as some of the most experienced refractive surgeons in the nation.

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LASIK on the cutting edge without the blade

ANN MARIE BUSH
MORRIS NEWS SERVICE

TOPEKA, Kan. - Chris Padilla had worn a combination of glasses and contacts since he was a third-grader. When he would wake up in the middle of the night, he would have to put on his glasses to see the alarm clock.

"I haven't seen the clock during the middle of the night since I was 6 or 7," said Padilla, who is 28.

All of that changed after Padilla underwent eye surgery, a procedure new to Topeka, blade-free Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK). He recently woke up in the middle of the night and could see the time. "This was a way to free myself from the hassle," he said.

Padilla and Jamie Slack were among the first patients to have the blade-free procedure at Genstler Eye Center in Topeka.

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Eyeglass World and LASIK Vision Institute Announce National "Live With Vision" Initiative to Bring Improved Vision and Hope to People Across America

LAKE WORTH, FL--(MARKET WIRE)

Eyeglass World, a top retailer of eyewear, and The LASIK Vision Institute, a leading provider of laser vision correction services, today announced the official launch of Live With Vision, a national program that provides eye care products and services to children and adults in need. Eyeglass World and The LASIK Vision Institute are both owned by Vision Care Holdings, LLC.

Live With Vision will focus on children with undiagnosed vision problems whose families cannot afford eye exams and eyeglasses, as well as adults who are in the process of rebuilding their lives and experiencing financial hardship.

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New laser may widen scope for eye surgery

New techniques in laser eye surgery could eliminate night vision problems and other undesirable side-effects of the treatment, enabling thousands more people to put aside their glasses and contact lenses.

The latest high-speed, high-precision lasers and iris recognition technology can provide customised procedures to replace the previous “one treatment fits all” approach, resulting in an operation that produces 20/20 vision or better, ophthalmologists say.

The innovations improve the popular LASIK (Laser in Situ Keratomileusis) method of eye surgery, which is used to correct sight and astigmatism – problems resulting from an irregular-shaped cornea.

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LASIK eye problems may be underreported

RALEIGH, N.C. — Millions of Americans have undergone laser eye surgery to correct bad vision, and along with the procedure's popularity something else is coming into focus: its hazards.

Advertising stresses the surgery's safety, and most procedures are successful. Tiger Woods, who relies on keen eyesight as the world's best golfer, pitches it as a quick and painless way to restore sharp vision. Even the U.S. Air Force, long skeptical of the surgery, changed its policy last May to let people who had LASIK apply for pilot training.

But every year thousands of Americans who undergo LASIK are left with chronic pain, dryness of the eyes, distorted night vision and even blindness, according to Food and Drug Administration statistics.

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Eye surgery leaves many with problems

Millions of Americans have undergone laser eye surgery to correct bad vision, and along with the procedure's popularity something else is coming into focus: its hazards.

Advertising stresses the surgery's safety, and most procedures are successful. Tiger Woods, who relies on keen eyesight as the world's best golfer, pitches it as a quick and painless way to restore sharp vision. Even the U.S. Air Force, long skeptical of the surgery, changed its policy in May to let people who had LASIK apply for pilot training.

But every year thousands of Americans who undergo LASIK are left with chronic pain, dryness of the eyes, distorted night vision and even blindness, according to Food and Drug Administration statistics.

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NASA Approves Advanced Lasik for Use on Astronauts

SANTA ANA, Calif., Sept. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE: EYE - News), a global leader in ophthalmic surgical devices and eye care products, today announced that the National Aeronautics and Space Agency (NASA) has approved the company's LASIK technologies for use on U.S. astronauts. The NASA decision was made following review of extensive military clinical data using AMO's Advanced CustomVue(TM) LASIK with the IntraLase® Method, which showed the combination of technologies provides superior safety and vision.

Approved for use on consumers almost a decade ago, more than 11 million LASIK procedures have been performed to-date, making it the most-common elective surgical procedure in the U.S. But it wasn't until LASIK developed into an all-laser procedure that NASA approved it for use on pilots, mission and payload specialists who face extreme, physically demanding conditions in space. The all-laser LASIK technologies, which utilize wavefront guided and femtosecond lasers, have also been cleared for U.S. military personnel, including most recently Air Force pilots.

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Assessing Ectasia Risk One Patient at a Time

We’re now a decade and a half into the LASIK era, not exactly long-term by medical standards but long enough that some of the risk associated with the procedure have been put to rest, or at least better understood and managed. Post-LASIK dry eye, for example, in most patients can be avoided or successfully treated until the eye recovers normal function.

A focus on better patient selection, improved diagnostic capabilities and more precise technology to create the flap are a few reasons that the incidence of post-LASIK ectasia does not appear to be on the rise as LASIK procedures have increased. While ectasia can’t yet be consigned to the “problem solved” pile, there is heartening news on both the treatment and diagnostic fronts of this rare but disabling complication.

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Results of Lasik not always clear

By Robert Mitchum
Chicago Tribune

Millions of people are estimated to undergo the Lasik procedure each year in the United States at academic clinics, private practices and corporate centers. While the vast majority experience no long-term complications of the surgery, a small percentage find themselves with permanent visual defects that are difficult to treat and hard to live with. Some of these patients respond in anger; a browse of the Internet will turn up several venomous sites calling for litigation against Lasik surgeons, a horror story from comedian Kathy Griffin and even calls for a ban of the procedure itself.

Other patients suffering from post-surgical complications languish in silence, unaware of their options for treatment. Barbara Berney of Rockford was one of these patients, suffering from a long list of complications after her Lasik surgery in 2001: dry eye, night blindness, dimmed vision and a suite of aberrations, including ghosting, halos and starbursts. 'If you made a list of complications, I'd probably have 70 percent of them,' Berney said. 'How I can stay sane, I don't know.' After a second surgery did not significantly improve her vision, and after an unsuccessful legal action against her surgeon, Berney decided to start an organization for people in her situation: the Vision Surgery Rehabilitation Network.

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Lasik Device To Correct Bifocal Vision Approved

One of America’s biggest eye care companies has had its recent invention-the CustomVue Monovision Lasik device, approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Advanced Medical Optics Inc. claims the invention is the first Lasik device to correct one of a patient's eyes to see far (myopia) and the other eye to see objects close-up (presbyopia).

According to the FDA the instrument works by correcting all the nearsightedness to help distance vision in a patient's dominant eye, while fixing only part of the nearsightedness in the less dominant eye, which helps close-up vision. The FDA has asked the company to conduct a study tracking 500 patients for six months after surgery, to check for potential visual disturbances that could limit activities or worsen a patient's quality of life.

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FDA Approves Monovision LASIK

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the first LASIK device to reduce the need for reading glasses after age 40.

Called CustomVue Monovision LASIK, the laser platform and associated software manufactured by AMO/VISX (Santa Clara, CA) treats one eye to see distant objects and the other eye to see things up close.

"The approval of the CustomVue Monovision LASIK expands permanent vision correction options for nearsighted adults who also have trouble focusing on objects close-up. Unlike traditional LASIK, Monovision LASIK may reduce the need for reading glasses in some people over 40." says Daniel Schultz, MD, director of FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health in a press release issued by the FDA on July 12, 2007.

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Heavy myopia may be cured with new laser eye surgery

CORRECTIVE SURGERY: Costing nearly twice as much as conventional LASIK surgery, intraLASIK may be the only option for some cases of myopia
By Angelica Oung
STAFF REPORTER

Myopic patients who wish to improve their vision but are deemed unsuitable for conventional eye surgery can now seek another surgical procedure, an eye doctor said yesterday.

Despite being nearly twice as expensive as laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery, Ting Min-feng, an ophthalmologist, said he had performed "hundreds" of procedures since importing the first equipment at a cost of NT$20 million (US$610,000).

"For some, it is the only option," Ting said.

"With conventional LASIK surgery, the corneal layer is peeled back using a blade before the laser is used to vaporize part of the corneal tissue," Ting said. "The use of femtosecond lasers accomplishes the same task with far greater accuracy."

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Deploying soldiers get free LASIK priority

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Special Forces Groups and other units most likely to go to combat in Iraq will get priority in free laser or photorefractive surgery being offered to soldiers at Fort Carson.

Surgery must be done at least 90 days before a soldier deploys, the Fort Carson Mountaineer reported Friday, quoting military medical officials.

“Right now we do 500 per year. Hopefully, we will triple that amount so that all soldiers who want the procedure and are candidates for it will be able to have it done,” said Mike Ives, Eye Clinic supervisor at Evans Army Community Hospital. Ives encourages soldiers to consider having one of the procedures.

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Bad eyes? Learn about Lasik, Lasek and PRK (from Mayo clinic)

Tribune Media ServicesPublished May 27, 2007
Q. I'm 48 and have been wearing hard contacts since I was 10. Apparently, as we approach 50, our eyes don't produce as many tears, so my lenses have become uncomfortable. What's the latest information on refractive surgery, and which kind has the best success rate?

A. Refractive surgery refers to procedures aimed at correcting "refractive error," an abnormality in the eye's focusing power resulting in nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. Nearsightedness occurs when the curvature of the cornea, the transparent membrane that arcs over the front of the eye, is too steep. Farsightedness results if the cornea is too flat. And astigmatism is the problem when the curvature varies.

If discussions with your doctor lead to refractive surgery, instead of eyeglasses, three time-tested procedures are available: laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (Lasik), photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), and laser epithelial keratomileusis (Lasek).

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Laser Eye Surgery Video

The Discovery Channel show "How its Made" has produced an excellent beginning to end segment on laser eye surgery. This one is short on the gory close ups and hi tech and instead takes the viewer step by step through the process. Video is below

LASIK For Older Adults

A new University of Illinois at Chicago study appearing in the online edition of the journal Ophthalmology reports on the safety, efficacy and predictability of laser eye surgery (laser in situ keratomileusis or LASIK) in patients 40-69 years old.

"We are seeing an increasing demand for LASIK surgery for older adults, who present special challenges," said study co-author Dr. Dimitri Azar, Field chair of ophthalmologic research at UIC.

In LASIK surgery, adjustments in correction are routinely made to compensate for the cornea's strong healing responses in younger patients, Azar said. Increased age has been previously associated with poorer final clarity of vision, as measured on an eye chart (visual acuity).

"We were able to show that fine adjustments in the correction to the cornea in our older patients that compensate for differences in age-related healing resulted in reliable predictability of correction," said Azar, who is also professor and head of the UIC department of ophthalmology and visual sciences.

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Blade vs. Laser: Is There a Difference in Outcomes?

David J. Tanzer, MD, San Diego

Perhaps the largest study to date to compare microkeratomes gives the laser the edge.

In the past year, there have been numerous reports comparing the results seen with the femtosecond laser to the visual results when a mechanical microkeratome is used. But few of these studies have included a large number of eyes.

In our most recent LASIK study conducted at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, we set out to evaluate three keratome devices for LASIK flap creation: the Amadeus Microkeratome (Advanced Medical Optics); the Hansatome Microkeratome (Bausch & Lomb); and the IntraLase FS femtosecond laser (IntraLase).

The results show that there are some definitive clinical benefits to using the femtosecond laser for LASIK flap creation, chief among them being a much more reproducible flap.

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Better Eyes in Old Age

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Laser eye surgery isn't just for the young. A new study from the University of Illinois at Chicago shows there are still substantial benefits of laser eye surgery, or LASIK, for older patients. There were known benefits to having LASIK at a young age because of the cornea's strong healing responses, but now researchers have found small adjustments in the correction to the cornea compensate for differences in age-related healing for older patients.

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Wavefront-Guided LASIK: The New Frontier

/24-7PressRelease/ - April 11, 2007

Wavefront-guided LASIK uses Wavefront technology to customize the surgery precisely to your eyes. Traditional LASIK and corrective lenses can correct common vision problems including nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism, but cannot address other problems with quality of vision. Higher order aberrations can cause vision problems such as halos, glare, decreased contrast sensitivity, and shadows. These problems normally do not affect visual acuity (how you test on the eye chart) but affect the quality of what you see in real life. Higher order aberrations can actually be exacerbated by traditional LASIK surgery.

So what are higher order aberrations? As they relate to your vision, they are infinitesimal imperfections that create minute changes in the light rays that pass through your eye. These minute changes in the light rays affect the quality of your vision (even with glasses or contact lenses) although you are probably not even aware of the difference.

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Selling elective refractive procedures

By: Nancy Groves
Ophthalmology

Demonstrating value, meeting individual needs win patients over

Whether a patient is interested in LASIK or in cataract surgery that may include an optional IOL to correct presbyopia, the approach should be the same।

"There are a couple of rules for the road that are really important," explained Shareef Mahdavi।

"One of them is that before you start talking about solutions as a provider, you need to understand the problem that they're going through," Mahdavi said। "The problem is more than just 'I can't see well.' You need to get to their specific and unique concerns."

Getting there means having a conversation with each patient about his or her lifestyle, work habits, leisure activities, computer use, reading—anything that helps you understand them.

"That's really important, and there isn't enough of that being done," Mahdavi said. "People tend to shortcut that step and want to go right into a selling mode, saying why the technology is really good or why that particular surgeon is really good. Typically, that's done sooner than it should be."

Patients want to feel special, and they want to feel listened to," Mahdavi added. "The counselors who do that well are going to have a lot less resistance when it comes to price and people saying yes."

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