The Papale & Bouvier Eye Center team has compiled the following list of frequently asked questions on the topics of financing, insurance, candidacy for lens implants and LASIK eye surgery, and much more. If you have further questions, contact our office in Springfield, Massachusetts to speak directly with a member of our staff.

Who is a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery?

LASIK eye surgery can treat a broad range of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Appropriate candidates must be at least 18 years old and have good eye health. It is important that your prescription remains stable for one year prior to the procedure. LASIK surgery cannot be performed on any individual who is pregnant or breastfeeding.

We recommend that you schedule a free LASIK eye surgery screening at our Springfield, Massachusetts office to determine if you are a candidate.

Will my vision be perfect after LASIK eye surgery?

While laser vision correction has proven to have an overwhelming success rate, there are no guarantees of a perfect visual outcofme. The goal of LASIK eye surgery is to reduce dependency on glasses and/or contact lenses. The vast majority of patients can see better than 20/30 without correction, many at 20/20 or better. Remember, how you heal, your degree of correction, and your overall eye health are all factors for your final outcome. The most satisfied patients are those who have realistic expectations about their final vision.

Is the LASIK procedure painful?

No. Before the procedure, the surface of the eye is numbed with anesthetic eye drops. Thus, most LASIK eye surgery patients report no pain during their treatment. For one to two days after LASIK eye surgery, most people report an increased sensitivity to light, dry eyes, and a somewhat "gritty" sensation. These temporary symptoms are perfectly normal and will usually disappear within 24-48 hours.

Visit our LASIK & More page to find out more general LASIK eye surgery information.

Will I have to wear glasses after cataract surgery?

Standard (single vision) lens implants do not have the ability to provide a full range of vision. Thus, most people who have single vision lens implants will need glasses after cataract surgery. However, the AcrySof® ReSTOR® lens, a new advance in lens technology, is designed to improve your overall visual outcome. The ReSTOR® lens provides focus points at varying distances, providing sharper uncorrected vision throughout a full range of vision - from near to far. Based on FDA clinical data, 80 percent of patients never have to wear glasses after receiving ReSTOR® lens implants. At your cataract exam, a Papale & Bouvier Eye Center surgeon can discuss with you whether or not you are a candidate for this revolutionary new lens implant.

Does insurance cover the cost of the ReSTOR® lens implant?

Insurance policies vary, but Medicare, supplemental insurance, and private insurance will typically cover the basic cataract surgery procedure with a conventional lens implant. However, if you elect to have an AcrySof® ReSTOR® lens implanted, there is an additional cost that is not covered by insurance or Medicare. You can opt to pay the difference for the added benefits of the AcrySof® ReSTOR® IOL.

At the Papale & Bouvier Eye Center, we offer multiple financing options. Our surgical coordinator can discuss the options with you when you schedule your surgery. To find out more about lens implant or LASIK eye surgery financing, contact our eye center in Springfield, Massachusetts today.