Laser Eye Center of Miami

Dr. Gabriel Lazcano, eye surgeon at the Laser Eye Center of Miami, specializes in LASIK surgery in Miami and Fort Lauderdale. He has treated thousands of patients and helped them eliminate their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Our center is proud to be the first and only center in Miami-Dade county to offer the most advanced bladeless vision correction technology with the WaveLight® Refractive Suite, fastest refractive surgery platform available in the U.S. The Refractive Suite includes the WaveLight®FS200 Femtosecond Laser, which integrates many new functions for fast, effective and reliablefemtosecond laser treatments. This system enables WaveLight Refractive Suite standard flap creation in approximately 6.0 seconds. And, the WaveLight®EX500 Excimer Laser combines a number of innovations in refractive technology to produce fast, effective and reliable procedures. LASIK technology Imagine waking up and seeing the alarm clock without searching for your glasses. Imagine enjoying your favorite sport without contacts or glasses. For millions of people, these dreams have come true! It is truly a miracle of modern medical technology. Which Laser Eye Surgery is Best For Me? The ultimate decision regarding the surgery that is best suited for you will be discussed with your eye doctor. Bladeless LASIK (LASER ASSISTED IN-SITU KERATOMILEUSIS): Using anesthetic eye drops only, your eyes become completely numb — NO PAIN! A special instrument is then placed between your eyelids to prevent blinking. Next, using the femtosecond laser, a thin layer of corneal tissue (flap) is created. The dimension of this layer is exactly as specified by the laser. (Traditionally, a blade was used to create the layer, but the size and thickness were very unpredictable). This flap is lifted from the cornea as if opening the cover of a book. Using the latest and fastest technology for LASIK surgery, a cool beam of light from the laser gently reshapes the surface of the cornea, making it more like a normal eye. This allows images to come to focus clearer on the retina, which is the back of the eye. The flap is put back into place, where it bonds securely without the need for stitches. Most patients are back to their normal activities the following day and already enjoying the benefits of LASIK. ASA (Advanced Surface Ablation): This procedure is usually done on patients with thin corneas. Using “eye drops” only anesthetic eye drops, your eyes become completely numb — NO PAIN! A special instrument is then placed between your eyelids to prevent blinking. Next, the corneal “skin” (epithelium) is loosened using diluted alcohol and it is gently removed, exposing the corneal stroma. Using the latest technology available, a cool beam of light gently reshapes the surface of the cornea, making it more like a normal eye. Light can then focus at the back of the eye, on the retina, making images on the retina clear, thereby improving vision. A special chemical is applied to facilitate the healing of the tissue. A contact lens is then applied for comfort. You should expect some discomfort for the first 2 to 3 days. Vision usually begins to improve in 3 to 4 days. Problems That LASIK Can Correct LASIK Miami LASIK is a great solution for overcoming the three most common types of refractive errors, which are eye disorders that result in blurry vision: Myopia (Nearsightedness): While you can see close-up objects clearly, objects that are far away become increasingly blurry. This occurs because the curvature of the cornea is sharper than normal, and the incoming light rays refract in front of the retina. Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Here, your distance vision is good while your near vision is blurry. This condition occurs when the curvature of the cornea is flatter than normal, causing the incoming light rays to refract behind the retina. Astigmatism: This condition is caused by a combination of corneal curvature irregularities that can cause vision problems at various distances. Benefits of LASIK Some of the reasons Dr. Lazcano’s patients are glad they had LASIK include: Crisper, clearer vision Less dependence on wearing glasses or contact lenses (with some patients no longer needing prescription lenses at all) Fast procedure Minimal discomfort Results that last a lifetime for most patients LASIK Recovery LASIK is an easy procedure to undergo and recover from, with only a brief downtime. Typically, your sight is impaired for about one day before you achieve vision crisper than it was prior to surgery. Some discomfort may linger for the initial hours after LASIK, but this can be easily managed with pain medication. Full recovery and vision can take a few months to achieve, but you should not have trouble seeing or engaging in normal activities in the meantime.

LASIK may be the most popular refractive surgery, but it is not the only option available to patients. Clear lens extraction (CLE), sometimes referred to as refractive lens exchange (RLE), is another procedure capable of correcting refractive errors. CLE involves removing the eye’s natural lens and then replacing it with an intraocular lens (IOL). It is essentially the same procedure used to treat cataract patients, except that it aims to correct nearsightedness and farsightedness rather than cataracts. Clear Lens Extraction Candidates Clear Lens Extraction in MiamiCLE is predominately performed on patients aged 40 or older. Once a person reaches middle age, the lens starts to change, making LASIK a less effective option. Fortunately, an IOL remains effective at any age. Moreover, IOLs are incapable of developing cataracts. Given that cataracts degrade the eyesight of nearly 50% of Americans by the time they are 75, having an IOL can be seen as a preventive measure. LASIK is also inadvisable for patients who have severe myopia or have weak or misshapen corneas. In most cases, CLE remains a solid option to correct these issues while improving refractive errors. During a consultation, the eye team at Laser Eye Center of Miami will examine the extent of the patient’s refractive errors as well as other factors to determine whether CLE, LASIK or an alternative procedure is the best way forward. Clear Lens Extraction Procedure Details Laser Eye Center of Miami offers multiple types of premium IOLs to best suit the needs of each patient. Ahead of the surgery, the doctor will perform vision tests to determine whether a monofocal lens (which usually improves nearsightedness) or a multifocal lens (which is capable of improving vision at many distances) seems appropriate. The patient’s preference and budget are also factors in this decision. Just before the surgery, the patient receives anesthetic eye drops to numb the eye and minimize pain during the procedure. After making a small incision on the eye, the surgeon breaks apart the eye’s natural lens and removes it. Then the surgeon carefully inserts an IOL to take the place of the previous lens. This process is often completed in under 30 minutes. Approximately one week later, the patient returns to the office to have the same procedure performed on the other eye. Each eye is done separately so that the patient never loses his or her entire vision while recovering. Spacing the surgeries also allows time to ensure that there have been no complications. Refractive Lens Exchange Recovery Refractive Lens Exchange in MiamiWithin a few hours, the effects of the eyedrops fade away, allowing the patient to start seeing better out of the treated eye. However, the quality of vision will fluctuate somewhat for the first few weeks until the final results are achieved. Patients should arrange to have a ride home from their surgery, and then commit to rest and relaxation for the first two days of recovery, putting off any strenuous activity including exercise. Side Effects Side effects, which are generally minor, include light glare and blurry vision. Some patients experience some discomfort after the anesthesia has worn off, but it can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medication. Benefits Of Clear Lens Extraction Clear lens extraction offers several advantages for patients seeking a long-term solution to refractive errors. One of the most notable benefits is the ability to achieve stable vision correction that does not change as the natural lens ages. Because the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens, patients no longer experience the progressive changes that typically occur over time. This consistency can be especially valuable for patients seeking a predictable, long-term vision correction solution without the need for ongoing adjustments. Another key advantage is the reduced reliance on glasses or contact lenses. Depending on the type of intraocular lens selected, many patients can perform daily activities such as reading, driving, and using digital devices with greater visual independence. The availability of multiple IOL options allows for a personalized approach, aligning vision correction with each patient’s lifestyle. Clear lens extraction may also serve as a preventive step against cataracts. Since the natural lens is removed during the procedure, this eliminates the possibility of developing cataracts later in life, a common condition that affects many individuals as they age . This added benefit makes CLE an appealing option for patients looking for both vision correction and long-term eye health planning.

The surgeons of the Laser Eye Center of Miami are gifted Miami cataract surgery specialists. They offer the newest technology IOLs (intraocular lenses) and the most advanced surgical techniques to their patients. In the paragraphs below they describe cataracts and the cataract surgery procedure to restore sight. What is a cataract? Fort Lauderdale cataract surgery patients A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens inside the eye. This lens works like the lens in a camera. It is located just behind the iris which is the colored part of the eye. It focuses the image in the retina which sends it to the brain. The human lens is made mostly of protein and water. The protein keeps the lens clear and lets light pass through it. With age some of the protein may clump together and start to cloud a small area of the lens which causes blurry vision. With time it grows denser and as it does it makes it harder for images to focus on the retina. Most cataracts are age related. However, there are other types of cataract: Secondary cataract. Cataracts can form after surgery for other eye problems, such as glaucoma. Cataracts also can develop in people who have other health problems, such as diabetes, or due to prolonged steroid use. Traumatic cataract. Cataracts can develop after an eye injury, sometimes years later. Congenital cataract. In some cases babies are born with cataracts or develop them in childhood, often in both eyes. These cataracts may be so small that they do not affect vision. If they do, the lenses may need to be removed. Radiation cataract. Cataracts can develop after exposure to some types of radiation. What can be done? Cataracts can be surgically removed in an outpatient procedure. For this type of surgery the eye is anesthetized with drops, a small incision is made, ultrasound is used to remove the cataract and an intraocular lens is inserted. The majority of patients are awake during surgery, but a mild sedative is given to them to relax them. After surgery, the vision is slightly blurry but clears rapidly. In most of the cases normal activities can be resumed one day after surgery. Cataract surgery is very successful. More than 95 percent of people who have their cataracts removed have no complications and enjoy improved vision. When is the best time for cataract surgery? Cataract surgery is an elective procedure. The decision to have cataract surgery is one that the patient and the eye doctor should make together. In most cases, waiting to have surgery won’t harm your eye. However, considering the benefits of this procedure it is a step most of our patients take once they’re diagnosed. The decision is usually based on how much the cataract affects your life. The following are common complaints of patients with cataracts. The most common symptoms of a cataract are: Cloudy or blurry vision. Colors seem faded. Glare. Headlights, lamps, or sunlight may appear too bright. A halo may appear around lights. Poor night vision. Inability to drive at night. Can’t read for prolonged periods of time. Double vision or multiple images in one eye. (This symptom may clear as the cataract gets larger.) Frequent prescription changes in your eyeglasses or contact lenses. Since these can be a sign of other eye problems, if you have any of these symptoms you should be checked by an eye care professional. Your Options: One of the benefits of cataract surgery today, is the fact that there are many options available for lens implants. There is the option of single-vision lens implants, the multifocal lens and Toric multifocal lens. ReSTOR apodized diffractive IOL 1.State-of-the-art Tecnis multifocal and the Tecnis Toric multifocal lenses have been specially designed with multifocal zones that provide good vision at near, far and in between. Toric Single Piece Natural IOL 2.Single-vision and Toric lens implants which correct distance vision and usually require the use of reading glasses. The Toric IOL simultaneously corrects astigmatism, an irregularity in the surface of the cornea. 3.Monovision is where the implants correct for distance in one and near the other eye. In addition to being an outstanding cataract surgeon, Dr. Lazcano is well known as Miami and Ft. Lauderdale LASIK specialist. Please visit this page to learn more about this procedure. How Cataracts Are Diagnosed Cataracts can develop gradually, and you might not immediately notice any changes in your vision. However, as the lens of your eye becomes more clouded over time, you may begin to experience symptoms such as blurred or dim vision, increased sensitivity to light, or trouble seeing clearly at night. Because these changes can be subtle at first, it’s essential to have regular eye exams to catch cataracts early, even before they significantly affect your daily life.

What Is Dry Eye? Dry Eye Treatment in MiamiThe eyes need tears to remain healthy, functional, and comfortable. If you notice that your eyes are not producing enough tears, you may have dry eye. Dry eye is a common eye condition that affects the tear film that covers the cornea. This film is composed of three distinct layers that work in unison to keep your eyes nourished. Any disturbance to the tear film can result in bothersome symptoms, such as: A burning or stinging sensation in the eyes Sensitivity to light Blurry vision Unexplained changes in vision Eye discharge Although it may seem counterintuitive, watery eyes may also be a symptom of dry eyes. This can happen when the meibomian glands do not produce enough oil to coat the outermost layer of the tear film, causing the underlying watery layer of tear film to evaporate too quickly. In response to this imbalance, the lacrimal glands produce more tears — although they are not able to properly coat the eyes — leaving many dry eye sufferers with watery eyes. Dry eye can occur alone or appear alongside other medical conditions, such as diabetes, certain eye diseases, or blepharitis. Dry Eye Risk Factors There are many factors that can increase your risk for dry eye, including: Age: As you get older, your likelihood of dry eye increases. Lifestyle: Factors such as your environment, the amount of time you spend looking at screens, and allergies can influence the health of your eyes and trigger dry eye symptoms. Certain medications: Certain medications, such as those that treat allergies, systemic retinoids, and hypertension, can increase the risk of dry eye. Diagnosing Dry Eye optilightTests will also be performed to help diagnose dry eye. These include: Slit lamp exam: The slit lamp exam helps our doctors get a gauge of the amount of tears your eyes are producing. It involves shining a light into each of the eyes and then using a microscope to thoroughly examine the eyes and eyelids. Schirmer’s test: Tear production may also be measured with Schirmer’s test. A small strip of paper is placed at the edge of the eyelid and left there for several minutes. The eyes will naturally produce tears in response, which are then measured by examining the amount of paper that is covered. Tear breakup time test: This test is performed to evaluate how fast the tears evaporate. This requires our doctors to place dye into the eyes to determine the stability of the tear film. Treatment Options optilightThe goal of dry eye treatment is to alleviate symptoms and limit potential damage to the delicate surface of the eyes. Your treatment options may include: Artificial tears: Artificial tears relieve mild symptoms of dry eye and provide an instant boost of moisture. They are specifically formulated to replicate natural tears, which may help your eyes stay comfortable and lubricated. Ointments: Some patients require a thicker formula to eliminate eye irritation and dryness. Ointments are a great option in these cases and are also ideal for bedtime use. IPL therapy: Short for intense pulsed light, IPL is an advanced technology that uses light pulses that target the meibomian glands, effectively eliminating any substances that could be contributing to gland blockage. This treatment can help restore the function of the meibomian glands, which are essential to a healthy tear film. FAQs How Can You Tell the Difference Between Dry Eye and Allergies? Dry eye and eye allergies share symptoms like redness, irritation, and burning, making it hard to tell them apart. However, allergies often come with itchiness, watery eyes, and nasal congestion, while dry eye causes a gritty or foreign body sensation. If your symptoms worsen in dry environments or after prolonged screen time, you may be dealing with dry eye rather than allergies. Can Dry Eye Be a Temporary Condition, or Is It Always Chronic? Woman with dry eyes in Mami, FLDry eye can be temporary or chronic, depending on the cause. Environmental factors like wind, air conditioning, and prolonged screen use can trigger short-term dryness. However, if you experience ongoing symptoms due to aging, hormonal changes, or underlying health conditions, your dry eye may be chronic and require long-term management. How Do You Know If Your Dry Eye Symptoms Require Medical Treatment? Mild dry eye can often be managed with artificial tears and lifestyle changes. However, if your symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily activities, medical treatment may be necessary. Signs that you should seek professional care include constant discomfort, excessive tearing, light sensitivity, or blurry vision that doesn’t improve with blinking.

PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy, is a popular vision correction procedure that corrects refractive errors. It utilizes a precise laser to alter the cornea’s shape to help light refract correctly. It is considered an ideal option for patients with astigmatism, nearsightedness, or farsightedness who may not be eligible for LASIK surgery. In addition, PRK may be right for you if: Your eyes are healthy overall You do not have any issues related to your corneas, such as cataracts or injuries You have a stable eye condition What to Expect at Your PRK Consultation Before PRK, you will meet with one of the highly skilled doctors at Laser Eye Center of Miami, who will evaluate the condition of your eyes and assess your candidacy, testing the size of your pupil, the extent of your refractive error, the health of your corneas, and other important factors. If it is determined that PRK is appropriate for your needs, you will then be able to schedule your procedure and begin preparing for the procedure. For example, if you wear rigid gas-permeable contact lenses, preparing for PRK means you should stop wearing them for a few weeks prior to surgery. About the Procedure PRK is performed as an outpatient procedure. First, your eyes will be fully numbed with a special eye drop so that you remain comfortable during treatment. A holder will be put in place to prevent blinking and ensure safety. The eye’s epithelium will then be removed before the laser reshapes the cornea. After, anti-inflammatory eye drops are applied and a clear contact, which acts as a protective barrier, is placed into the eye to support its healing. The entire procedure can be completed in as few as 15 minutes, and while you will be able to return home the same day, you should make arrangements for someone to drive you. Recovering from PRK After having your eyes treated, you should prioritize rest. You will be provided with aftercare instructions that may include avoiding strenuous activities. It is normal to have some eye discomfort for a few days after the procedure, but this is manageable with over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. You may also be instructed to wear sunglasses when exposed to the sun or limit sun exposure altogether to prevent eye damage. Results PRK Treatment in Mami, FLPatients can expect an improvement in vision after three to five days. After that, you can get back into your regular routine with the convenience of clear vision and a reduced or eliminated dependence on eyeglasses or contact lenses. Things such as fogged eyeglass lenses, dry contacts, and broken frames will no longer be a consideration after PRK. PRK vs LASIK When considering laser corrective eye surgery, patients usually come across both LASIK and PRK. While both procedures have a goal of improving vision, their approaches differ. LASIK involves the creation of a corneal flap, which is then folded back, allowing the laser to reshape the cornea. However, a high quality of vision is achievable with both PRK and LASIK. FAQs Will You Need Glasses or Contacts After PRK? PRK aims to significantly reduce or eliminate your dependence on corrective lenses. While many patients achieve excellent vision without glasses or contacts, some may still need low-prescription lenses for certain activities, especially for reading as they age. Results vary based on your initial prescription and healing process. Is PRK a Painful Procedure? The surgery itself is not painful due to the use of numbing eye drops. However, mild to moderate discomfort is common in the days following the procedure. You may experience light sensitivity, irritation, or a gritty feeling in your eyes. Your doctor will provide medications and eye drops to help manage any discomfort during recovery. How Soon Can You Resume Work and Daily Activities? Most patients can return to work and daily tasks within three days after PRK. However, vision may still be slightly blurry, and you may experience sensitivity to light. It’s important to follow post-operative instructions, such as limiting screen time and avoiding strenuous activities, to ensure a smooth recovery. Can PRK Be Performed on Both Eyes at the Same Time? Yes, PRK can be done on both eyes simultaneously. Some patients prefer treating one eye at a time to ease recovery, while others opt for both eyes in a single session for convenience. Your doctor will recommend the best approach based on your lifestyle and vision needs. How to Protect Your Eyes From Sunlight After PRK Protecting your eyes from UV exposure is critical after surgery. Wearing high-quality UV-blocking sunglasses whenever you are outdoors helps prevent irritation and supports proper healing. Additionally, avoid bright indoor lighting and excessive screen exposure in the early recovery period to minimize discomfort.

Some patients learning about advanced surface ablation (ASA) are already familiar with photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), which was the first FDA-approved method of laser vision correction. Over time, there have been many advancements in laser technology, as well as techniques for vision correction. ASA safely removes the epithelium of the cornea and treats the surface, correcting refractive errors in the process. Benefits of ASA ASA patients enjoy several benefits, including: Improved vision: ASA is designed to produce clear, sharp vision in patients with refractive errors. Those with nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism can enjoy improved vision at all distances. Safe procedure: ASA is a safe, efficient, and effective procedure. While there are risks associated with any procedure, choosing skilled and experienced doctors such as Dr. Lazcano and Dr. Awad of Laser Eye Center of Miami can help minimize complications and other issues during the procedure and recovery. Save money over time: Contact lenses and eyeglasses can come with costs that add up over time. Many patients have multiple pairs of glasses that complement their wardrobes, while those with contacts will need special contact lens solutions, eye drops, and storage cases to ensure their lenses remain comfortable, safe, and clean. Others enjoy the flexibility of both contact lenses and eyeglasses and end up paying for both, including the costs associated with prescription changes. While this is commonplace for many eye patients, some individuals may prefer a solution that does not require additional upkeep. Alternative to LASIK: Those who are not ideal candidates for LASIK may benefit from ASA, which does not require the creation of a flap. Flexible lifestyle: ASA offers patients independence from eyeglasses and contact lenses. After having refractive errors corrected, patients can swim, hike, and sweat without worrying about removing their contact lenses or losing their glasses. Furthermore, athletes may find ASA especially beneficial compared to wearing glasses, which may become damaged or fog up outdoors or while sweating, or contact lenses, which may become scratched or blurred when clear vision is needed the most. What Can I Expect During the Procedure? ASA is completed in a painless procedure, starting with numbing eyedrops to ensure patient comfort during treatment. The epithelium of the cornea is then gently removed using a laser or a combination of laser and other techniques. The refractive errors are then addressed with the laser, which changes the curvature of the cornea so that light is refracted correctly. A contact lens bandage is placed on the cornea, allowing for quick and comfortable healing as the epithelial cells regenerate. ASA Recovery The initial recovery period for ASA lasts three to five days; during this time, blurred vision is normal and discomfort can be managed with medication. Full recovery occurs after approximately one month. Many patients feel ready to resume their regular activities a week after treatment. Patients will need to attend follow-up visits so that our doctors can assess healing. Learn More About Advanced Surface Ablation in Miami For more information about ASA, contact our office where our friendly staff will help arrange your consultation with one of our outstanding doctors. Patients can also request an appointment by filling out our convenient online contact form.