Everyone has Google so our patients usually read a lot about procedures like LASIK before they come see us.
The most captivating read for a potential patient that is considering LASIK or laser vision correction, is hearing about a patient’s actual experience, in their words. You probably know you have to be a “LASIK” candidate but what happens if you aren’t one?
We explored this earlier this month with David’s Experience, so we wanted to do a deeper dive like we have done with LASIK patients and share a FULL journey with an ICL patient from beginning to end.
This is Aryanna’s ICL Journey
On June 2, 2022 I had my Refractive Screening at Slade & Baker Vision and on July 6, 2022 I underwent ICL Testing.
I have been wearing glasses since I was 4 years old. Lasik has been on my radar since I was about 16. I have always played sports, been involved in outdoor activities, and I am very adventurous. Because of my astigmatism and overall vision, I have always felt hindered. Without my glasses, I can hardly see anything in front of me and I can’t see things further away. I have always depended on them and wanted so bad to be free from them so I would not have the constant worries and annoyances that come with them.
I was -12.5 /-14.5 before contacts
I was referred to Slade & Baker by an optometrist in Bryan, TX. After being told “no” for the 2nd time about LASIK, I was so hopeful to hear there could potentially be another option!
My first appointment was amazing. I remember going in feeling very discouraged and prepared to hear another “no” but I heard the opposite. The doctors and staff were beyond kind, knowledgeable, and honest. Although I needed further testing to receive a final yes for surgery, the patient counselor I had was continuously checking in and making sure I had all necessary information. When I left the appointment, I cried from relief and excitement. I felt comfortable with all the staff I encountered and felt ready to continue on.
Two Days Before ICL Surgery: September 18, 2022
Wow, thinking about it as 48 hours…it seems so soon! I am extremely nervous but just as excited. I am most looking forward to being able to travel/adventure without the hassle of glasses/fear of something happening to them.
DAY OF ICL SURGERY: September 20, 2022
On the day of surgery, I woke up very nervous. The nurses at the surgery center were so comforting and encouraging. They helped me be more excited than nervous and also made me feel heard with my anxieties. The procedure was not painful and from what I do remember (the anesthesiologist was awesome!), Dr. Bennett Walton talked me through the whole thing. After surgery, all I remember was crying so much it was AMAZING. I remember being taken out to my family and everyone crying. The nurses were so excited with me and so comforting. It has been such a miracle to see without glasses. From waking up and not having to find my glasses to daily activities including even watching TV (no more dirty lenses or frames needing to be readjusted constantly). It has been so different seeing myself with no glasses.
Day After ICL Surgery: September 21, 2022
This is absolutely amazing!! Still exhausted and almost feeling like this is not real. So many happy tears. Went from around -15/-14 to 20/20! There are just not even words. It’s a true miracle for me.
A good form of ‘speechless’ is where we aspire to get our patients to with their vision correction surgeries. Whether they undergo LASIK, PRK, ICL, Refractive Lens Exchange or any of the vision correction procedures we offer! Aryanna is such a great example of someone who didn’t qualify for LASIK but got an incredible result with ICL – and this is just one of many patients who has had the opportunity to benefit from the ICL technology. If you are looking to see without glasses or contacts and want to know whether you qualify for LASIK or the ICL, please call our office at 713-626-5544 and our experienced surgeons will be able to help you achieve your dream vision!=
