Millions of people wake up every morning and have to reach for their glasses or contacts to see what kind of day it is. But now each year over a million of these people decide to do something about their less than perfect vision and turn to the alternative: LASIK or PRK.

For more than 25 years Dr. Edward Rashid has been helping patients eliminate their dependency on glasses and contacts by offering the latest in Custom LASIK and PRK procedures, along with other cutting-edge technologies.

Recognized by the Consumer Research Council of America as one of America’s top ophthalmologists, it is easy to understand why thousands of South Texans have entrusted their vision care needs to Dr. Rashid. He answers some of the most common questions his patients have when they finally decide to take the first step to a clearer world.

How long have you been involved in laser vision correction?
I have been fortunate to watch the development of these innovative procedures since their very beginnings. During my corneal fellowship training at Emory University in the mid 1980s, I was involved in the early trials with monkeys that underwent PRK, a procedure very similar to LASIK. Interestingly, even the monkeys that had some of the first procedures ended up seeing quite well.

What are LASIK and PRK?
Both LASIK and PRK procedures allow us to minutely reshape the surface of the eye to significantly enhance and improve one’s vision. In LASIK, the cornea is reshaped under the top layer of corneal tissue (a flap), while in PRK the surface of the cornea itself is reshaped.

How are LASIK and PRK different?
Both procedures use the most advanced lasers and technology to reshape the cornea and, in fact, are very similar in most ways. Additionally, the final visual result from both procedures is almost identical. However, in patients with unusual and/or thin corneas, PRK is the preferred choice, as it tends to preserve more corneal tissue. While LASIK patients experience less discomfort and a faster recovery, PRK patients will achieve the same results over a longer period of time.

What steps can a patient take to ensure the safest possible experience when having LASIK or PRK?
The most important decision the patient can make is to select a surgeon who is highly experienced in these unique procedures and is utilizing the most up-to-date cript"> laser technology available.

Can LASIK and PRK treat high astigmatism?
Yes, LASIK and PRK both can correct mild to severe astigmatism. The patients with high astigmatism who have laser vision correction tend to be amongst the happiest ones, as it is difficult to correct astigmatism with contacts and glasses.

What can I expect on the day of my procedure?
Both LASIK and PRK are outpatient procedures and it generally takes less than 30 minutes to be performed. Most patients leave the laser center already experiencing an improvement in their vision.

How will my vision be after the procedure?
I feel that the most amazing part of this procedure is the rapid return of uncorrected vision in such a short period of time. Most patients are able to drive the next day and experience very little discomfort. There are very few surgical procedures performed on the human body that have such a rapid rehabilitation.

Are these procedures affordable?
You can now have the most advanced laser treatments for as low as $5 a day over two years in exchange for your daily cup of coffee. This one-time investment can offer you a lifetime of convenience, save you hours of time, and thousands in cost.