Aloha Laser Vision

Visian Implantable Collamer Lens provides U.S. Bobsled Pilot with the vision to lead his Team to first Olympic Gold in 62 Years

admin — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 23:39:52 +0000

In a historic moment for the United States bobsled team, Steven Holcomb piloted bobsled USA-1 to the Olympic gold medal in the four-man event, ending a 62-year Olympic medal drought for the American. Holcomb’s heroic mastery of the treacherous track is made even more significant by the fact that not long ago, he had 20/500 vision — “profound visual impairment” caused by keratoconus– that very nearly ended his bobsledding career. Contact lenses could no longer provide the level of visual acuity required for Holcomb to compete. Finally, with the help of U.S. bobsled coach Brian Shimer, he was deemed a good candidate for the Visian ICL. Holcomb said. “I couldn’t wear contacts the day of the surgery, so they literally had to walk me around the room. And then they did it, I got up, and just like that, I was 20/20. It’s incredible. I call it an eye-opening experience.”

The Saints Super Bowl Promotion

admin — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 21:14:44 +0000

5% of proceeds from LASIK procedures performed in February will be donated to Habitat for Humanity in an effort to rebuild New Orleans.

Dr. Alan Faulkner and his family spent 18 years in New Orleans prior to joining his father’s practice in 2001. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, the Faulkner family returned to New Orleans for the first time since Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005. “We were heartbroken to see much of New Orleans still left in shambles.” Living in Hawaii we understand firsthand the devastation families experience in the aftermath of a hurricane. We wanted to find a way to give back.

The Saints have given New Orleans a new surge of hope! In celebration, Aloha Laser Vision would like to donate 5% of all proceeds from LASIK to Habit for Humanity to rebuild and revitalize the soul of New Orleans.

Aloha Laser Lasik Vision Honolulu Hawaii Patient Experience Video

admin — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 19:50:36 +0000

Charlaine: I wish I would have done LASIK before I joined the touring cast of the Lion King. My eyes were always tearing with my contact lenses. I feel like I wasted all those years with poor vision. Aloha Laser Vision changed my life. I would tell anyone don’t put this off. Flawless eyesight is priceless.

Dr. Faulkner: For me it’s all about improving patients’ lifestyle.

[See post to watch Flash video]

Recent Study Finds Lasik Vision Correction Safer Than Contact Lenses

admin — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:44:07 +0000

The widely held belief that wearing contact lenses is safer than having laser vision correction is being challenged. A recent study indicates for the first time that LASIK is safer than contact lenses.

Based on their review of multiple studies, ophthalmologist William Mathers, M.D., and colleagues found a greater chance of suffering vision loss from contact lenses than from laser vision correction (LASIK). Their findings were reported in a letter published in the journal “Archives of Ophthalmology.”

The Oregon researchers reviewed several large studies and concluded that daily contact lens wearers have a one in 100 chance of developing serious lens- related eye infection over 30 years of use, and a one in 2,000 chance of suffering significant vision loss as a result. The study confirms that only one in 10,000 patients risk significant vision loss due to complications from LASIK, making LASIK the safest elective procedure performed today.

As technologies continue to evolve, the risk of laser vision correction con- tinues to diminish. In 2001, the All- Laser, No-Blade method was introduced which dramatically decreased flap complications making All-Laser LASIK safer. Dr. Faulkner was an early adapter and the first LASIK surgeon in Hawaii to bring this technology to the islands. In 2005, Dr. Faulkner introduced Custom Cornea LASIK which not only improved vision, but also virtually eliminated night glare and halos, one of the early complaints of LASIK patients.

Between 20 and 25 million people in the United States wear contact lenses; about a million Americans undergo laser surgery to correct vision problems each year. Direct comparisons of the risks vs. benefits of contacts and LASIK have been difficult because surgical complications are immediate and the risks associated with contact lenses accumulates over several years.

The risk of wearing contacts is greater when the lenses are used improperly, such as sleeping in them, using tap water to store them, or even not washing your hands before putting them in. Infections can occur even when contact lens wearers do everything right.

“One should not assume that contact lenses are safer than LASIK,” explains Dr. Faulkner. “It may have been true years ago, but for the average person this is certainly not the case anymore. Contact lens wearers are prone to serious infections.”

If you wear contact lenses and have considered LASIK surgery, consider this – LASIK will pay for itself in about 4 years (not to mention it’s tax deductible). Contact lens wearers have monthly costs for lenses and solution, in addition to the expense of yearly eye exams and backup prescription glass- es. This doesn’t include an emergency visit to the doctor if you develop an eye irritation or infection from wearing contacts. To make LASIK affordable and conven- ient for every budget we offer flexible financing plans, such as 0% interest for 24 months.

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Imagine Taking Clear Vision For Granted

admin — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 18:23:26 +0000

Patients seeking vision correction now have an exciting new option: Visian ICL™, an implantable contact lens. Visian ICL™ is the first foldable lens of its kind to receive FDA approval. Unlike traditional contact lenses that are placed on the surface of the eye, Visian ICL™ is surgically placed inside the eye where it may provide exceptional quality of vision and predictable outcomes. Just when you thought you had seen it all, a new procedure is set to redefine vision correction. Named Visian ICL™, the procedure corrects vision from a completely different perspective. Visian ICL™ is the first lens of its kind to receive FDA approval for use in the United States. After LASIK was introduced many people thought that vision correction had acheived its ultimate evolution. Now there is reason to reconsider, as a new vision correction procedure has received FDA approval for use in the United States. The new procedure is Visian ICL™. The simple implantation procedure is performed on an outpatient basis by ophthalmologists who are certified in the Visian ICL™ procedure. According to Dr. Alan Faulkner, “It’s the same procedure that I have performed on cataract patients for years, so it’s quite familiar to me.” The ophthalmologist makes a small incision where the cornea meets the white part of the eye and inserts the foldable lens, which unfolds into place. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes and is done using topical anesthesia. Typically, patients can see very clearly within a few hours after the procedure. Visian ICL™ is cosmetically pleasing, as well. The lens is placed in the posterior chamber, between the iris and in front of the crystalline lens. The placement makes it invisible to the patient and others. Further, the lens avoids contact with any eye structures, providing safety, stability, comfort and predictable outcomes. Once in place, the lens stays there indefinitely and should require no maintenance. Except for outstanding vision and an annual checkup, the patient may forget the lens is even there. Visian ICL™ is made of an advanced lens material called Collamer® that may provide exceptionally clear vision and practically eliminates reflectance of light that can cause glare, halos and compromised night vision. A highly biocompatible lens material, Collamer® does not trigger an inflammatory response in the body and minimizes the occurrence of inflammation, induced astigmatism, and other complications.More than 55,000 patients worldwide have had the Visian ICL™ procedure. The lens has been subjected to numerous scientific studies and continuing refinement over time. In a rigorous US clinical trial, the satisfaction rate among patients was impressive: 99.4% reported satisfaction three years after the procedure. Visian ICL™ is being introduced by STAAR Surgical, Company, a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products. If you are considering vision correction options, you are encouraged to contact Dr. Alan Faulkner at 792-EYES (3937) to discuss the possibilities of Visian ICL™, the new 21st century option for vision correction. Dr. Faulkner is the only certified Visian surgeon performing procedures in Hawaii.

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EYE-Q System Offers Fastest LASIK Treatments in the Country

admin — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:26:23 +0000

In June of 2008, Aloha Laser Vision installed the newest and most advanced FDA-approved LASIK system in the United States. The ALLEGRETTO WAVE™ Eye-Q, made by WaveLight Inc., delivers the fastest laser vision correction treatment available. With the Eye-Q system, the average treatment time for correcting nearsightedness is between just 7 and 8 seconds. Very short treatment times have shown to reduce healing time while decreasing the risk of post-operative infections, over- corrections and under-corrections. In addition, patient comfort significantly increases as the need to focus during the procedure is significantly shortened.

”Our practice is devoted to providing our patients with the safest and most advanced technology available,“ said Dr. Faulkner. “With the Eye-Q, we can now perform laser treatments much faster than before, to achieve the best outcomes possible while ensuring the highest level of comfort for our patients.”

The Eye-Q is a next generation system featuring WaveLight’s proprietary PerfectPulse TechnologyTM to ensure maximum safety at high speed. PerfectPulse Technology was specifically developed to monitor and control each laser pulse that is delivered to the eye. The most important component of this technology is the high speed eye-tracking device which monitors eye movement 400 times per second.

Unlike older excimer lasers, which removes tissue in a central flat manner that creates an edge, Allegretto Wave’s Perfect Pulse technology uniformly applies pinpoints of laser pulses adjusted to each eye’s specific curvature. With this unique system, eye tissue is reshaped in a smooth, consistent manner that provides the very best vision result.Wavelight also uses a technology the company pioneered called wavefront. Wavefront measurements provide meticulously detailed information that can help address even obscure defectsin the eye’s optical system known as higher order aberrations. This unique LASIK platform has been shown to preserve the natural shape of the cornea and prevent the induction of optical errors that could lead to night vision problems or loss of contrast sensitivity (the ability to see the images crisply).What does this new technology mean for patients treated with the Allegretto Wave Eye-Q? Rapid treatment speed has been shown to increase predictability and reduce the incidence of complications.“Superior vision following the LASIK procedure is dependant not only the surgeon’s experience but also on the technology
used to deliver the treatment,”Dr. Faulkner added. “We offer our patients the highest level of safety and precision possible while achieving spectacular visual outcomes.”

If you have been waiting to have laser vision correction, wait no longer. Proven technology is here and now is the time to find out if you are a candidate. Call us today at 792-EYES (3937) and schedule your free consultation with Dr. Faulkner.

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Concerns About LASIK?

admin — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:10:55 +0000

If you’ve been reading or seeing too many negative reports in the media about LASIK surgery, here are some facts you should know. Nearly a decade after the FDA approved the first devices for laser vision correction, its Ophthalmic Device Panel convened a hearing last month to examine the status of LASIK today. They heard public testimony from individuals who had experienced adverse outcomes, as well as from optometrists, ophthalmologists, therapists, and attorneys. Although the reports focused on the dissatisfaction of a few patients, the FDA reaffirms that LASIK is both safe and effective.

Unfortunately, the media chose to concentrate on the negative outcomes of a select few rather than the overwhelming satisfaction of the majority of patients. A literature review by the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ASCRS) indicated that more than 95.2% of patients in the US were satisfied with their post-operative vision; globally, approximately 95% of patients were satisfied with their LASIK results.

Despite the often dramatic testimony of some dissatisfied patients, the FDA panel was not convened as a referendum on LASIK, according to Dr. Weiss, committee chairperson. “I think some of you came here today, and I know that some of the press had touted this meeting as a referendum on LASIK,” Dr. Weiss said. “It appears to me from hearing what was said today that this really has been a referendum on the performance of LASIK by some surgeons who should be doing a better job. And I hope and feel that in general will help you get the answers to some of this, and the FDA and the organizations will help in terms of getting further information to try to make things better for future patients, so your testimony here has been of value, and we thank you.”

It’s important to understand the factors associated with maximizing a positive experience with your laser vision correction procedure. As with any surgery, risks do exist. The key is in determining who is a good candidate, what technology will be used, and the experience of the surgeon.

Some patients are just not candidates for LASIK surgery; maybe their corneas are too thin, their eyes too dry, or their nearsightedness too severe. Maybe their expectations are too unrealistic. When choosing a laser center, it’s important to find a surgeon who is qualified to evaluate the patient for all options, and recommend the procedure that best fits his or her needs. Ideally, the surgeon should meet and examine the patient preoperatively to discuss treatment options, as well as the risks and benefits. The surgeon should also be available to address any postoperative issues.

Technology is another consideration when choosing a laser center. Some centers still use conventional LASIK which produces good results for lower corrections. However, this older technology has resulted in higher instances of complaints with glare, halos and decreased night vision. Newer laser technologies like the Allegretto Wave Laser incorporate either wavefront optimized or wavefront guided treatment patterns that minimize the risk of night glare, often improving night vision when compared to contact lenses or glasses. The difference between conventional versus wavefront LASIK is like comparing regular television to high definition TV.

At Aloha Laser Vision, we take pride in bringing the best technology available to the islands. Over 4 years ago, we were the first in Hawaii to use the femtosecond laser instead of the traditional microkeratome blade to create the corneal flap during the first step of LASIK surgery. The IntraLase®FS (femtosecond) laser is safer and more precise, dramatically reducing the risk of complications and improving visual outcomes.

There is no question as to LASIK’s safety and effectiveness. In fact, the FDA holds that nearly all LASIK patients are satisfied with their procedure. LASIK is the #1 elective surgery in the US today with nearly 12.4 million procedures performed to date.

At Aloha Laser Vision, we are committed to advancing our technology and surgical techniques so that we can continue to enhance our patients’ quality of life. If you are considering vision correction options, we encourage you to call 792-EYES (3937) to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Alan Faulkner.

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Making LASIK Affordable: Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

admin — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:51:36 +0000

What is a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)?

A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a Cafeteria Plan is an employer sponsored benefit that allows you to use pretax
income on medical expenses. These expenses can include deductibles, co-payments and other charges not normally covered by medical
insurance, such as refractive surgery. If you expect to incur medical expenses that will not be reimbursed by your
health insurance plan, you should consider taking advantage of your employer’s FSA, if one is offered.

FSA Benefits

A Flexible Spending Account allows you to save money by reducing the amount of income tax you owe. The contributions made to the FSA are
deducted from your paycheck before Federal,State and Social Security taxes are calculated.The end result is that these contributions are
never reported to the IRS as income, allowing you to save money. For example, if you put in $4,000 to cover the cost of LASIK, you could avoid paying
up to $1,600 in taxes depending on your tax bracket. In other words, your LASIK treatment only costs $2,400, a huge savings.

How does a Flexible Spending Account(FSA) work?

At the beginning of the plan year (usually January 1st or July 1st), your employer will ask you how much you want to contribute for the
year. Most employers set a maximum contribution level of around $5,000. You only have one opportunity to enroll, unless you have a change
in your family status (marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or loss of a spouse’s insurance coverage). The yearly amount you designate is then deducted
in equal installments from your paycheck each pay period and deposited into a special account. In order to receive reimbursement for
eligible expenses, you are required to submit the provider’s receipt or a copy of theExplanation of Benefits from yourinsurance. The request for reimbursement
must occur before the year end deadline, otherwise you may actually lose the money.

What types of expenses are eligible?

Any expense that is considered a medically related deductible expense by the IRS and is not reimbursable by your insurance plan can be reimbursed
through a Flexible Spending Account. Costs that are typically included are laser vision correction, prescription drug co-payments and
deductibles.Not all employers participate in FSA programs. It is recommended that you check with your Human Resources Department to see if this
type of plan is offered. You’ll need to do a little planning to decide how much you want to set aside from your paycheck to contribute for the
year. If you put in more money than you need, it cannot be rolled overinto the next year and you will lose it. For LASIK surgery, we recommend
you that you have a consultation/screening to determine your candidacy prior to setting aside any allocations to your FSA.

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Frequently Asked Questions – Visian ICL Implantable Contact Lens

admin — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:33:43 +0000

How do I know if I’m a candidate?

A good candidate for the Visian ICL is a patient between the ages of 21 and 45 who is nearsighted. It is preferable that the patient has not had previous eye surgery or a history with ophthalmic disease such as glaucoma, iritis, or diabetic retinopathy. Our practice offers a complimentary screening to determine if you are a candidate for this exciting procedure.

Where in the eye is Visian ICL placed?

The Visian ICL is surgically inserted inside the eye just behind the iris in front of the eye’s natural lens. It is inserted by a trained ophthalmologist through a micro-incision. The Visian ICL does not touch any internal eye structure and stays in position without maintenance, indefinitely.

What is the track record of Visian ICL?

Extensive research and development preceded the introduction of Visian ICL. It is now being used by more than 65,000 patients worldwide. The satisfaction rate among patients is extremely high – above 99%. The Visian ICL provides unparalleled quality of vision and has excellent and stable outcomes for patients with moderate to severe myopia. The Visian ICL has been available internationally for over 10 years.

Does it hurt?

No, most patients state that they are very comfortable throughout the procedure. We use a topical anesthetic drop prior to the procedure. Your surgeon may choose to administer a light sedative, as well.

What if my vision changes?

The Visian ICL offers treatment flexibility. If your vision changes dramatically, the lens can be removed and replaced, or another procedure can be performed at any time. With the Visian ICL, you can wear glasses or contact lenses if necessary. The Visian ICL does not help presbyopia (the difficulty with reading which is experienced by people over the age of 40), but you can wear reading glasses if needed.

Can the Visian ICL be seen by the naked eye?

No. The lens is positioned behind the iris where it is invisible to both you and observers. You enjoy a cosmetic appearance that is completely natural. Only your doctor will be able to tell that you’ve had vision correction.

What is the Visian ICL made of?

The Visian ICL is made of Collamer which is an advanced lens material that is highly biocompatible. Collamer does not cause a reaction inside the eye and it contains an ultraviolet filter that provides protection to the eye.

What is involved in the Visian ICL procedure?

One to two weeks before your surgery, your doctor will make a small opening with a laser to allow fluid to pass between the lens and the front chamber of the eye. The actual Visian ICL procedure typically takes approximately 15 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis, although you will need to have someone with you to drive you home from your procedure, you will be functional when you leave the office. Normally, very little discomfort is associated with this procedure. A light topical drop anesthetic is administered and a mild sedative may be given. In addition, eye drops or an oral medication may be prescribed. You will come back to our office the next day for a follow-up visit and we will see you again at one week, one month and six months for follow-ups.

How long does the Visian ICL stay in my eye?

The Visian ICL is intended to remain in place within your eye without any maintenance. Should it become necessary, the lens can be removed by a certified ophthalmologist.

Can the Visian ICL be felt once it is in my eye?

No, the lens is not noticeable after it is put in place. It does not attach to any structures within the eye and it stays in position.

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The Gift of Great Eyesight

admin — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:04:02 +0000

Some are born with the ability to see the world clearly, but if you aren’t one of those people, now you can share that gift too. With Dr. Alan Faulkner’s expertise and the Allegretto Eye-Q®, improving your vision can be completely customized to your individual needs. The results may make you wish that you’d done it sooner.

Why Your Eyes Need Help

Your eye functions in much the same way as a camera. The front surface of the eye (the cornea) and the lens inside the eye are responsible for focusing incoming light rays onto the back of the eye (the retina) so that you can see clearly. When your visual system is perfectly matched (cornea, lens and retina), the images are in focus; any mismatch will result in a blurry or distorted image. The three most common types of mismatch that occur are called myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Myopia, or nearsightedness, is one type of vision condition that can cause blurred eyesight. With this condition you are able to see objects up close, but not at a distance. Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is a vision condition in which you can see distant objects clearly, but not those up close. For someone with astigmatism the surface of the eye is curved more like a football (instead of a basketball) with both flatter and steeper curves. When the surface of the eye has an uneven curvature, vision becomes distorted.

What Are the Laser Correction Options for Correcting Less-than-Perfect Vision?
Today, laser vision correction surgeries offer more alternatives to improve less-than-perfect vision than ever before. These procedures usea laser to help correct the cornea’s shape.
Some of the most common surgeries are LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis and PRK (photorefractive keratectomy).

It’s a Simple Procedure
This surgery is done as an outpatient procedure in our laser suite. The actual laser procedure takes only a few seconds, while the entire process may take up to an hour. Our staff will discuss the follow-up regimen (eye drops, protective eyewear, etc.) and schedule your post-op visit to ensure your eyes are healing well.

Be Confident in YourProcedure with the Allegretto Eye-Q® Laser
Studies show 97% of our patients see at least 20/20 or better following the procedure. While individual results may vary, the benefits of laser vision correction are compelling especially the thought of living without contact lenses or glasses.

An Invaluable Gift
Choosing laser vision correction surgery will help you experience the type of vision that you’ve always desired. The Allegretto Eye-Q® Laser can help by giving you a customized treatment for your vision needs, whether you suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. Now you are able to have the gift of excellent vision some have naturally. Payment plans make this truly affordable.

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