FAQ

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General questions:

Our process is thorough to ensure the best care for your eyes. Here's a step-by-step overview:
1. Initial Examination (90 minutes): Your journey begins with a comprehensive 90-minute exam, during which we dilate your eyes. This initial assessment is crucial to determine your suitability for surgery and to plan the procedure tailored to your needs.
2. Surgery Scheduling: Once you're deemed a good candidate, we'll schedule your surgery. We usually operate on one eye at a time, with the surgeries spaced two weeks apart. This approach allows each eye to recover adequately and reduces overall downtime.
3. Post-Operative Visits: After each surgery, we schedule post-operative check-ups to monitor your recovery and ensure the best outcomes. These visits are typically at:
  - 1 Day Post-Op: A quick follow-up to check on the immediate recovery.
  - 1 Week Post-Op: A more in-depth examination to assess healing.
  - 1 Month Post-Op: A final check-up to ensure everything is as it should be. For convenience, when you have surgeries on both eyes, the one-month visit for your first eye will coincide with the one-week visit for your second eye.
Throughout this process, our team is committed to providing you with the highest standard of care and support.
After your eye surgery, it's important to follow certain precautions to ensure a smooth recovery. Here's what you need to know:
1. General Activity: We advise you to take it easy for the first few days post-surgery. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for about a week. It's essential to follow this guidance to allow your eyes to heal properly.
2. Eye Drops: Use the prescribed eye drops as directed. These are crucial for preventing infection and aiding the healing process.
3. Returning to Normal Activities: Generally, you can resume normal activities, including working out, about a week after your surgery. However, it's always best to listen to your body and take additional rest if needed.
4. Flying: Flying is usually safe after surgery, provided you adhere to your post-operative schedule. Modern airplanes have pressurized cabins, which shouldn't pose a risk to your recovery. Just make sure to keep up with your eye drops and follow any other post-op instructions.
5. Makeup: We recommend avoiding eye makeup for about a week post-surgery. When you do start using makeup again, consider purchasing new products. This reduces the risk of contaminating your eyes with bacteria from old makeup or brushes.
6. Swimming: Please avoid swimming for two weeks following your surgery. This includes pools, hot tubs, lakes, and oceans. Water bodies can harbor bacteria and other contaminants that may increase the risk of infection during the healing process.
We understand that financing is an important consideration for your eye surgery. To accommodate your needs, we offer a couple of convenient financing options:
1. Alphaeon Credit: As our preferred financing partner, Alphaeon Credit offers an attractive option: 24 months of no-interest financing. This can be a great way to spread out the cost of your surgery without additional charges. To see if you're pre-approved for Alphaeon Credit, you can apply here: Alphaeon Credit Application. The application process is straightforward and doesn't impact your credit score, so there's no risk in applying.
2. Care Credit: We also accept Care Credit, another popular financing option for medical procedures. Care Credit offers various plans that might suit your financial situation.
Both Alphaeon Credit and Care Credit are designed to make your surgery more affordable and accessible. If you have any questions about these options or need assistance with the application process, our team is here to help.
The timeline for returning to work after your eye surgery largely depends on the nature of your job and how you feel post-surgery. Here's what you need to know:
1. Light Duty Work: Many of our patients are able to return to light duty as soon as the day after their surgery. However, we require a post-operative check-up one day after your procedure to ensure everything is healing as expected. If you get the all-clear at this appointment, you can generally resume work if it's not physically strenuous or in a dirty environment.
2. Work in Dirty Environments or Involving Heavy Lifting: If your job involves working in dirty or dusty conditions, or requires heavy lifting, we recommend taking at least a week off. This precaution is to prevent any complications or undue strain on your eyes during the critical early recovery phase.
3. Work Release Note: Should you require a work release note for your employer, we are more than happy to provide one. This can help facilitate a smooth transition back to your work responsibilities while ensuring your employer understands any temporary limitations you may have post-surgery.
Remember, every patient's recovery process is unique. It's important to listen to your body and not rush back into activities, including work, if you're not feeling up to it.

Lens Replacements and Cataracts:

Our approach sets us apart in several important ways:
1. Expertise of Dr. John Belardo: Our lead surgeon, Dr. John Belardo, pioneered the 'no stitch, no shot, no patch' cataract surgery in Oklahoma, establishing a new standard of care. His extensive experience with various types of lens implants enables us to guide patients effectively in their eye care decisions.
2. Dedicated Team: We were among the first to offer office-based Cataract and Lens Replacement surgery, allowing most procedures to be done in our office. You'll interact with the same team from start to finish, ensuring a consistent and personalized experience.
3. Controlled Surgical Environment: Performing surgeries in our own facility gives us complete control over the environment. Our advanced technology allows us to verify lens implant measurements during surgery, contributing greatly to our successful outcomes.
4. Upfront Pricing: Transparency in pricing is a cornerstone of our practice. We are the only provider in the area to display our prices openly on our website. We believe in offering affordable options without obscuring costs behind monthly payments or discounts. Our confidence in our pricing model stems from our commitment to affordability and value for our patients.
Our team's passion for helping patients regain their sight drives every aspect of our care. We're excited to guide you on your journey to clearer vision.
We understand the importance of timely care, and we strive to accommodate your needs as efficiently as possible. Here's what you can expect in terms of scheduling:
1. Initial Examination: We offer exams five days a week, allowing us flexibility to schedule your pre-surgery visit promptly. In most cases, we can arrange this initial appointment within a week of your request.
2. Surgery Scheduling: Our surgical procedures are conducted every Tuesday and Thursday in our office. Typically, you can begin the surgery process about a week or so after your pre-operative visit, depending on availability and your personal schedule.
We make every effort to ensure a smooth and quick transition from your initial exam to the actual surgery, prioritizing your convenience and health needs throughout the process.
The actual surgery is quite quick, but we ensure that your entire experience on surgery day is thorough and comfortable.
1. Duration of Surgery: The surgical procedure itself is surprisingly fast, typically taking only about 7-10 minutes from start to finish.
2. Total Time Commitment: On the day of your surgery, plan to be in our office for about 90-120 minutes. This time includes several important steps
  - Paperwork and Instructions: Initially, we'll complete all necessary paperwork and discuss your post-operative instructions in detail.
  - Consultation with Dr. Belardo: Dr. Belardo will meet with you to review everything and address any last-minute questions or concerns you might have.
  - Preparation for Surgery: Many patients opt to take a Valium to help them relax, which we administer about 20 minutes before the surgery.
  - Surgical Procedure: Once you're prepped and relaxed, our surgery team takes over, performing their expert work swiftly and efficiently.
  - Post-Surgery Review: After the procedure, Dr. Belardo will accompany you to meet your driver, review the surgery, and ensure you're clear on all post-operative instructions before you leave.
The entire process is designed to be as smooth and stress-free as possible, ensuring you receive the best care while keeping your comfort a top priority.
The number of visits depends on whether you're having surgery on one or both eyes. Here's the typical schedule:
For Both Eyes:
1. Pre-Operative Exam: Begins with a comprehensive pre-op exam.
2. First Eye Surgery: Scheduled after your pre-op exam.
3. Post-Operative Visits for First Eye:
  - One Day Post-Op: A check-up the day after your first surgery.
  - One Week Post-Op: A follow-up visit a week later.
4. Second Eye Surgery: Scheduled after the first eye has been treated.
5. Post-Operative Visit for Second Eye:
  - One Day Post-Op: A check-up the day after your second surgery.
6. Combined Post-Operative Visit:
  - One Week Post-Op for Second Eye / One Month Post-Op for First Eye: This visit serves as a combined follow-up for both eyes.
7. Final Visits for Second Eye:
  - One Month Post-Op: A comprehensive check-up.
  - Three Month Post-Op: The final post-operative visit to ensure successful recovery.
For One Eye Only:
If you're only having surgery on one eye, the schedule will be:
1. Pre-Operative Exam
2. Eye Surgery
3. Post-Operative Visits:
  - One Day Post-Op
  - One Week Post-Op
  - One Month Post-Op
  - Three Month Post-Op
Exception - Light Adjustable Lens Technology: Patients choosing the Light Adjustable Lens Technology will need additional visits to refine the lens prescription.
Each visit is important to ensure the success of your surgery and the health of your eyes. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care at every stage of your treatment.
Typically, insurance does not cover Lens Replacement surgery. Here's a more detailed explanation:
1. Lens Replacement vs. Cataract Surgery: Insurance companies often view Lens Replacement in a similar light to Laser Vision Correction, considering it non-medically necessary or cosmetic, and thus do not cover it. Cataract surgery, on the other hand, is usually covered by insurance.
2. Coverage for Advanced Lenses in Cataract Surgery: Even when insurance covers Cataract surgery, it often does not extend to the cost of premium or advanced technology lenses, which many patients prefer for superior vision correction. These advanced lenses are usually an additional out-of-pocket expense.
3. Comparative Costs and Benefits: Patients undergoing Lens Replacement may find that their expenses are similar to those of Cataract surgery patients who choose premium or advanced technology lenses. Additionally, a key benefit of opting for Lens Replacement is the extended time with enhanced vision it offers. Instead of waiting for a cataract to develop and then paying a similar price for advanced lenses, Lens Replacement allows you to enjoy improved vision sooner and for a longer period.
For more detailed information about how insurance works with Cataract surgery and the types of lenses involved, please refer to our FAQ under the Cataracts tab.
Our primary goal is to ensure a comfortable experience for our patients undergoing cataract and lens replacement surgery. Generally, this procedure is very well tolerated and patients find it quite comfortable. To help ease any anxiety on the day of surgery, we offer a sedative, typically Valium, which helps to relax and calm nerves.
Once the surgery begins, we use an ample amount of numbing medication to minimize any discomfort. There is a brief moment during the procedure, typically lasting about 2 seconds, where you might feel a sensation of fullness in the eye. However, this sensation is usually not painful and passes quickly.
Most of our patients report that the surgical experience is much more comfortable than they anticipated. Our skilled surgical team is committed to making sure your procedure is as pain-free and comfortable as possible.
No, we do not put you to sleep during cataract and lens replacement surgery. It's important for you to be awake and able to follow simple directions during the procedure. This helps us ensure the surgery goes as smoothly as possible.
To help you relax and feel more comfortable, we offer a sedative, usually Valium. This medication helps ease anxiety and makes the experience more pleasant, without causing you to fall asleep.
It's also worth noting that when a person is fully asleep, their eyes tend to roll back, which would make performing the surgery more challenging. By staying awake, but relaxed, you help us maintain the optimal conditions for a successful procedure.

EVO ICL:

EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) offers a unique set of benefits compared to LASIK, making it a preferred choice for certain individuals seeking vision correction. Here are some key reasons why EVO ICL might be the better option:
1. Suitability for Thinner Corneas: For individuals with thinner corneas, LASIK may not be advisable due to the requirement of reshaping the cornea. EVO ICL does not involve reshaping the cornea, making it a safer alternative for these patients.
2. Quality of Vision: EVO ICL is known for providing excellent quality of vision with sharp, clear, and vivid images. This is particularly beneficial for those with high levels of myopia (nearsightedness), where LASIK may not always yield optimal results.
3. Reversibility: Unlike LASIK, which permanently alters the cornea, EVO ICL is reversible. The lens can be removed or replaced if necessary, providing an additional level of flexibility and peace of mind.
4. Dry Eye Concerns: LASIK can sometimes exacerbate dry eye conditions. EVO ICL, on the other hand, does not affect the surface of the eye significantly, making it a more suitable option for patients prone to dry eyes.
5. UV Protection: EVO ICL lenses come with built-in UV protection, which helps shield the eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays, a feature not directly associated with LASIK.
6. Preservation of Corneal Tissue: As EVO ICL doesn’t involve the removal or reshaping of corneal tissue, it’s a preferred option for those who wish to maintain the integrity of their corneal structure.
7. Range of Treatable Prescriptions: EVO ICL can correct a wider range of myopia, hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism than LASIK, making it suitable for individuals with stronger prescriptions.
It's important to note that while EVO ICL offers these advantages, it may not be the best option for everyone. The choice between EVO ICL and LASIK should be made after a thorough examination and consultation with an eye care professional who can assess your specific visual needs and health conditions.
Our approach sets us apart in several important ways:
1. Expertise of Dr. John Belardo: Our lead surgeon, Dr. John Belardo, pioneered ICL in Oklahoma and to date is the most experienced surgeon in the state. Why would you trust your eyes to anyone else.
2. Dedicated Team: We were the first to offer office-based EVO ICL surgery. No need to go to a surgery center. You'll interact with the same team from start to finish, ensuring a consistent and personalized experience.
3. Controlled Surgical Environment: Performing surgeries in our own facility gives us complete control over the environment. Our advanced technology allows us to verify lens implant measurements during surgery, contributing greatly to our successful outcomes.
4. Upfront Pricing: Transparency in pricing is a cornerstone of our practice. We are the only provider in the area to display our prices openly on our website. We believe in offering affordable options without obscuring costs behind monthly payments or discounts. Our confidence in our pricing model stems from our commitment to affordability and value for our patients.
Our team's passion for helping patients regain their sight drives every aspect of our care. We're excited to guide you on your journey to a clearer vision.
The actual surgery is quite quick, but we ensure that your entire experience on surgery day is thorough and comfortable.
1. Duration of Surgery: The surgical procedure itself is surprisingly fast, typically taking only about 7-10 minutes per eye from start to finish.
2. Total Time Commitment: On the day of your surgery, plan to be in our office for about 90-120 minutes. This time includes several important steps:
  - Paperwork and Instructions: Initially, we'll complete all necessary paperwork and discuss your post-operative instructions in detail.
  - Consultation with Dr. Belardo: Dr. Belardo will meet with you to review everything and address any last-minute questions or concerns you might have.
  - Preparation for Surgery: Many patients opt to take a Valium to help them relax, which we administer about 20 minutes before the surgery.
  - Surgical Procedure: Once you're prepped and relaxed, our surgery team takes over, performing their expert work swiftly and efficiently.
  - Post-Surgery Review: After the procedure, Dr. Belardo will accompany you to meet your driver, review the surgery, and ensure you're clear on all post-operative instructions before you leave.
The entire process is designed to be as smooth and stress-free as possible, ensuring you receive the best care while keeping your comfort a top priority.
Undergoing EVO ICL surgery involves several stages, each requiring a visit to the clinic or hospital. Here's a breakdown of the typical visit schedule for EVO ICL surgery:
1. Pre-Operative Examination: This initial visit is crucial for determining your eligibility for EVO ICL surgery. The examination involves a thorough assessment of your eye health and vision needs.
2. Day of Surgery: On the day of the surgery, you'll undergo the EVO ICL procedure. This is typically an outpatient process, meaning you can go home the same day.
3. Same Day Post-Surgery Follow-Up: Approximately 4 hours after the surgery, you'll have a follow-up visit to check eye pressure and ensure there are no immediate postoperative complications.
4. One-Day Post-Operative Check: The day after surgery, you'll have a post-op check to monitor your eye's response to the implant and initial healing.
5. One-Week Post-Operative Visit: About a week after the surgery, this visit allows your doctor to assess the healing process and make any necessary adjustments in your post-operative care plan.
6. One-Month Post-Operative Check: This visit is important for evaluating the long-term adaptation of your eyes to the EVO ICL and to check for any delayed complications or healing issues.
7. Three-Month Post-Operative Visit: The final scheduled check-up at three months post-surgery is to ensure that your eyes have fully healed and to assess the overall success of the procedure.
It's important to attend all these appointments to ensure the best possible outcome from your EVO ICL surgery. Your doctor may recommend additional follow-up visits based on your specific circumstances and the progress of your recovery.
Short Answer: Generally, no. Most insurance plans consider EVO ICL to be a cosmetic procedure, similar to LASIK or lens replacement surgery, and therefore do not cover the costs.
However, there are alternative payment options available:
- Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): You can use funds from your HSA or FSA to pay for EVO ICL surgery. These accounts allow you to use pre-tax dollars for eligible medical expenses, which can include vision correction procedures.
- Financing Options: For those seeking flexible payment plans, we offer financing through Alphaeon Credit. This program can help make the procedure more affordable by spreading the cost over time. To learn more or apply, please visit the [Alphaeon Credit Application]
We understand that the financial aspect is a significant factor in your decision-making process. Our team is here to assist you in exploring these options so that you can make the best choice for your vision needs.
Our primary goal is to ensure a comfortable experience for our patients undergoing EVO ICL.
Generally, this procedure is very well tolerated and patients find it quite comfortable. To help ease any anxiety on the day of surgery, we offer a sedative, typically Valium, which helps to relax and calm nerves.
Once the surgery begins, we use an ample amount of numbing medication to minimize any discomfort. There is a brief moment during the procedure, typically lasting about 2 seconds, where you might feel a sensation of fullness in the eye. However, this sensation is usually not painful and passes quickly.
Most of our patients report that the surgical experience is much more comfortable than they anticipated. Our skilled surgical team is committed to making sure your procedure is as pain-free and comfortable as possible.
The cost of EVO ICL surgery varies depending on the type of lens used:
- Standard EVO ICL: The price for a standard EVO ICL is currently set at $3,499.
- Toric EVO ICL: For a toric EVO ICL, which is designed to correct astigmatism, the cost is $3,999.
Understanding that affordability is important, we offer several payment methods to accommodate your financial needs:
- Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): You can use your HSA or FSA funds to pay for the EVO ICL surgery. These accounts allow the use of pre-tax dollars for eligible healthcare expenses.
- Financing through Alphaeon Credit: For patients who prefer a financing option, we collaborate with Alphaeon Credit. This can provide a convenient way to spread out the cost of the surgery over time. For more information or to apply for financing, please visit the [Alphaeon Credit Application]
We strive to make advanced vision correction accessible and are here to assist you in exploring these payment options. Our team is committed to providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your eye care.