Services

At Alamo Eye Institute we provide a range of eyecare services. Whether your vision needs are just a complete exam, laser refractive surgery, or anything in between, we promise to provide you with exceptional care as we work to maintain or enhance your vision. Below are just some of the many procedures and services we regularly provide to our patients – with a gentle touch, and stunning results. Your vision is our first priority!

If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today. We look forward to providing you with the personal care you deserve.

  • Conditions & Treatments
  • Amblyopia (lazy eye)
  • Cataract Care
  • Dry Eye
  • Glaucoma
  • Macular Degeneration
  • Eye Exams
  • General Eye Examination
  • LASIK Eligibility Evaluation

LASIK Frequently Asked Questions

Is LASIK right for me?
If you are considering LASIK eye surgery, it means you are living with nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, and probably currently wear glasses or contact lenses. LASIK is a great way to reduce your dependence on, or completely free yourself from, corrective lenses. It may be especially appealing because of your profession or lifestyle. It could be that you cannot wear contact lenses and dislike the appearance of glasses, or you may just want to reduce the expense and hassle of glasses and contacts.

However, LASIK is not appropriate for everyone. There are several factors which determine the best candidate, including age, medical history, individual eye anatomy, and expectations. Each person is a unique case requiring individual evaluation.

No website can tell you for sure if you are a good candidate for LASIK. The only way to find out is to schedule a LASIK eligibility exam. Be prepared to talk about your medical history, and any current diseases or medications. You will also discuss instructions and expectations for the procedure, recovery, and results. You will be given a comprehensive eye examination, including some tests especially tailored to evaluate whether your eyes are appropriate for the corrective surgery. From the results of this exam, the doctor can work with you to decide if LASIK is the right choice for you.

Is LASIK safe?
It is important to realize that, like any surgery, LASIK is not without risk. However, major complications are extremely rare. Minor complications occasionally occur, such as dry eye, and halos or glare around lights at night. However, such problems are uncommon, are often treatable, and will usually reduce or disappear within months of the surgery.

Does LASIK hurt?
There is no pain associated with the LASIK procedure. Local anesthesia is used on the cornea, which is administered through eye drops. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or pressure. After the procedure, patients may experience minor irritation in the eye. This should fade within a day or two.

Is LASIK guaranteed to eliminate my need for glasses or contacts?
Many people achieve 20/20 vision, or better, after undergoing LASIK eye surgery. Although patients experience an improvement in their vision, some may still need to wear corrective lenses for certain tasks, though the necessary power of correction will be much smaller than before.

The result of the LASIK procedure is also influenced by the amount of correction needed. Patients within a few diopters of 20/20 vision most often achieve sufficient results after undergoing LASIK that they no longer require corrective lenses. Patients with a wider error, especially those who are extremely nearsighted, sometimes will still require corrective lenses after the surgery, though their prescription will be greatly reduced.

I have been noticing strange things with my vision lately. What should I do?
Any abnormal phenomena or changes in your vision can indicate a variety of possible problems. The key to preserving vision in the face of most eye diseases is early treatment. Thus it is important to consult an ophthalmologist if you notice anything unusual or any change in your vision. It could be a serious problem, or it could be inconsequential, but the peace of mind and the possibility of catching a serious problem early are certainly worth it.

My vision is great; I have no problems. Is there any reason to have my vision checked?
Many serious eye diseases often have little or no symptoms until they are well developed. The only way to diagnose a problem early in such a case is to schedule periodic eye exams. This is the best way to preserve the clearest vision possible for life.

What to Expect

The best way to protect your vision is a yearly comprehensive eye exam. When you arrive at our office, you will be greeted with friendly faces. Each eye exam will use the latest state-of-the-art technology to assess your eye health. The doctor will inspect your eyes, answer questions, and discuss your eye care treatment options. In addition to determining your vision prescription, our doctor will test your color vision, depth perception, and check for any early indicators of possible eye conditions such as cataracts, retinal problems, and glaucoma.

Our goal is to have each patient leave satisfied knowing that they are receiving the best eye care products and services possible. We have answered a few frequently asked questions regarding eye exams below.

Why is my personal background important?
In order to better tailor the eye examination to your needs, our doctor may review any current vision problems, your general health, as well as discuss your hobbies and lifestyle requirements.

Why does the doctor ask me, “Which is better: one or two?”
While evaluating your prescription, the doctor will ask you to compare a series of lenses to determine which allows you to see clearer. As the differences become less noticeable, the doctor will be closer to finalizing your prescription. If you’re having a hard time choosing between the options, it means you’re almost done with this part of the exam!

Why is it necessary to know my blood pressure?
In addition to other health concerns, high blood pressure can affect the blood vessels in your eyes, which could lead to future vision problems.

Why am I asked to follow a light with my eyes?
This part of the exam helps determine how your pupils and eye muscles react and assists in gauging neurological function.

Is it necessary for the doctor to dilate my pupils during the exam?
Although pupil dilatation is not always necessary, the doctor may make this decision during your exam. If required, this painless process is like opening a door so the doctor can fully examine your retina. Dilation can assist in detecting diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and macular degeneration.