The Difference Between Lasik And Lens Replacement

ClearSight, partnered with News 9, is giving away a free Lasik or lens replacement procedure to a veteran.

Surgically corrected vision has been a procedure done for decades now, and doctors at ClearSight say the technology has only gotten better.

A Lasik procedure means ditching glasses or contacts, Doctor Rebenitsch with ClearSight says.

“We use a laser to treat their nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism,” Rebenitsch said.

The surgery may sound intimidating, but Rebenitsch says it’s quick and easy.

“With Lasik, you are back to regular activities by a couple of days,” Rebenitsch said. “People will sit up from the table and notice a difference immediately, which is really exciting.”

The patient is awake during the Lasik procedure and it only takes 10 minutes per eye. Rebenitsch says his patients have better vision after Lasik than with their trusty glasses.

When it comes to bifocals and readers wearers, lens replacement is an option.

“The reason we are doing the surgery for people 40-50 and beyond is because they lost that flexibility in their eye, they can no longer see far away and up close,” Rebenitsch said.

Rebenitsch says, like Lasik, lens replacement takes about 10 minutes per eye.

“Yes, you are awake, but we give you some medication to relax you,” Rebenitsch said. 

Rebenitsch says that lens replacement patients may have hazy vision for a few days, but that they’ll be seeing clearly in no time. Lens replacement does have a longer healing process, according to Rebenitsch. He also adds that patients are asked to avoid heavy lifting for a few days after the procedure.

“Lasik is performed on the front of your eye. Lens replacement is on the inside of your eye,” Rebenitsch said.

Dr. Rebenitsch will consult with the lucky veteran who wins this contest about whether Lasik or lens replacement is the best procedure for their eyes and vision. To submit a veteran to be considered, click here.