A World of Better Vision

Laser vision correction is now in its second decade of helping patients reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses and contact lenses.  Our patients continuously tell us they appreciate our commitment to being on the cutting edge of LASIK and other exciting technologies.

Heavy patient demand for laser vision correction has inspired surgeons and laser manufacturers to make tremendous advancements in both Excimer laser technology and surgical technique. When laser vision correction was first performed in 1988, only low to moderately nearsighted patients without astigmatism could be treated. Today, with the second and third generation Excimer lasers, very low to moderately high degrees of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism can be effectively treated. And for many patients that had large pupils, thin corneas or other contraindications for laser vision correction, newer surgical techniques now allow them to enjoy the benefits of clear vision without dependence on glasses and contact lenses. Only a few years ago these patients would not have been good candidates for laser vision treatment  Now with the help of our on-site VISX Starr 4 Excimer laser, we can treat the entire gamut.

Laser Vision Correction at The Eye Care Center

All laser vision correction procedures are not the same. Because of our dedication to excellence, The Eye Care Center, in historic Canandaigua, is recognized as the premier eye care provider in the area. Dr. Hwang, our refractive surgeon, is highly trained in a number of laser vision correction procedures. And we've invested in the VISX STARR laser vision technology needed to provide you with the best possible care and the VISX laser technology is renowned worldwide.

We are very proud to have a VISX Starr 4 laser on-site.  We were the first eye care professionals in the central New York area to have an on-site laser.  Having our own laser enables us to keep with a premium standard of maintenance as well as the knowledge of how our laser runs day-to-day. 

Dr. Hwang has successfully performed over sixteen hundred laser vision correction procedures. You will see Dr. Hwang at every visit.  He is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Dr. Hwang and our highly trained staff are ready to help you choose the option that's best for your individual vision problem, whether you're nearsighted, farsighted or have astigmatism.

What To Expect When You Come In To See Us

There are several choices for those of you who are interested in gathering more information.  The Eye Care Center offers on a regular basis, a "Live Surgery" Seminar.  (Click here to see scheduled events).  This seminar offers the unique experience of viewing a live surgery and having the opportunity to interview the patient and doctor after the surgery. 

While the "Live Surgery" seminar gives you great insight into Laser Vision Correction, the second option of a "Free" Consultation gives you the confidence of knowing you ARE a candidate for the procedure.

When you come to see us for a free consultation, you have a brief eye exam.  Basically, what you see without your glasses on and what your glasses see for you.  Dr. Hwang has a look at your eyes, determines whether he feels you are a good candidate for the procedure and answers any questions you might have.

If you decide to take the next step and have the procedure done, you would schedule a Preoperative appointment.  We have office hours on Tuesday and Thursday evenings for your convenience here in our Canandaigua office.

The purpose of the preoperative visit is to perform a thorough medical eye exam.  If you are a contact lens wearer, be prepared to be out of your contacts for a period of time before your preoperative visit.  Measurements of your eyes will include Corneal Topography (a mapping of the front of your eye) and Corneal Pachymetry (a measurement of the thickness of your cornea). 

On your chosen surgery day, you will be in our office for approximately an hour.  You and your family will be given individualized attention.  Your family, with your permission, will be able to view your surgery with an informed member of the staff, who will answer all of your questions.

After your surgery is complete we suggest you go home and sleep.  But the following day, most people can see well enough to drive themselves to our office for their one day post-operative visit.  The doctor will want to see you on several subsequent occasions which our staff will happily schedule at your convenience.

Fees

The cost of vision correction varies among practices, based on surgeon experience and what the center includes in the fee. We are not the least expensive providers because we never sacrifice safety to save you money, but we are not the most expensive either.  When you visit our office you cannot mistake the genuine care and concern we have for each individual patient.  Right down to holding your hand during surgery, if that is what you want.

We have invested heavily in advanced laser technology and our diagnostic technology is second to none. This investment is extremely important to surgical results and our patients tell us they can see the difference. We encourage you to attend a live surgery seminar here in Canadaigua, and visit other laser centers to compare. Please download our "How to choose a laser vision provider" form, found in Patient Forms.

It's only natural to want to get the best price, but remember, quality and service are extremely important when it comes to medical care. After all, laser vision correction is a procedure you'll have only once in your lifetime and your vision is one of your most important assets. Would you want the cheapest heart surgeon performing your heart surgery?  You may call our office for  our fee schedule and what it includes.  There are no hidden costs at The Eye Care Center.

A few insurance companies do pay for all or part of vision correction procedures. You can check with your plan administrator, or we will be happy to make a copy of your insurance card and check coverage for you. Many people have medical flex plans they use to save up to 50 percent on their procedure by using pre-tax dollars. Your employer's human resources department can tell you whether you have this benefit. Vision correction may be tax deductible as a medical expense (check with your financial advisor).

Affordable payment plans are available for approximately $100 a month for both eyes.  It is easy to apply online  and receive credit approval before you schedule an appointment. We also accept cash, personal checks, Visa and MasterCard.