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LASIK

Are you tired of being dependent on glasses and contact lenses in your day-to-day life?

Dr. Bruce Cohen can treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism with LASIK. We use cutting-edge tools for the safest, most precise treatment.

Patients in St. Louis, MO, and surrounding areas trust us to improve their vision WaveScan™ mapping technology and the VISX Star S4™ laser.
 

What LASIK Can Treat

Farsightedness (Hyperopia)

Patients with hyperopia have eyes that are too short or corneas that are too flat. Images do not have enough space to focus properly on the retina. These people can see objects that are far away but have trouble with close-up activities like reading and sewing. 

Nearsightedness (Myopia)

Patients with myopia have eyes that are too long or corneas that are too steeply curved. The light rays entering the eyes focus at a point in front of the retina and, as a result, are unfocused again by the time they reach the retina. These people can see objects that are close up, but objects farther away are blurry. 

Astigmatism

Patients with astigmatism have eyes with irregularly curved corneas. Images tend to focus on the retina in two places, causing blurred or double vision. 

It is important to keep in mind that LASIK cannot treat age-related sight degeneration and other eye conditions such as glaucoma and dry eye. Patients with cataracts may be able to correct their vision with the intraocular lens used for cataract surgery. Dr. Cohen might not recommend LASIK for very severe issues since the surgery works best for mild to moderate vision correction. 

Why Choose Dr. Cohen for Vision Correction

Dr. Bruce Cohen has been performing LASIK eye surgery in the greater St. Louis, Missouri, area since 1994. Dr. Cohen was one of the first LASIK surgeons in the area trained to use the excimer laser for laser refractive surgery after its approval by the FDA in 1995. 

Dr. Cohen’s longstanding expertise gives his patients peace of mind and confidence that they will soon be enjoying sharper, clearer vision. To address your eye care needs and set up a LASIK consultation, contact our office online, or call:

(314) 361-5003

Dr. Cohen and staff
Dr. Cohen was honored as one of TLC Laser Vision Centers’ top 100 laser vision surgeons in the country for 2002.

5-Star Reviews From All Over St. Louis "I would be blind without them"

1

Tim Burke

St. Louis, MO

2023

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I always have a great experience at Cohen eye associates. I would be blind without them. :)

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1

Mark Edwards

St. Louis, MO

2022

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Professional, friendly and competent. They have been my eye specialists for the past 35 years, from routine eye exams to eye surgery. I always felt I was in good hands.

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Most Patients Are Satisfied With the Results from LASIK

Our VISX Star S4™ Laser Is Special

VISX Star S4™ Laser

Our team has invested in cutting-edge LASIK technology to ensure our patients have access to the best possible vision restoring solutions. Notably, we utilize the VISX Star S4™ excimer laser system. Excimer lasers produce non-thermal, cool beams that vaporize the targeted tissue without burning surrounding areas. With this technology, we can reshape the corneal flap (mimicking the curvature contact lenses provide) to address both farsightedness and nearsightedness.

The VISX Star S4™ has variable spot beam technology that allows our surgeons to customize laser size and shape for more tailored surgery. Its 3D active track provides increased precision compared to older forms of LASIK surgery and allows patients to relax during treatment instead of straining to keep their eyes still.

The VISX also has an increased treatment zone, making it ideal for patients with complex concerns such as post-surgical glows and halos. 

Find Out Your Quote

During your consultation at our St. Louis, MO, office, we can provide an individualized price quote with a full breakdown of the costs involved. Call (314) 361-5003 or write to us to receive your price.

How LASIK Works 

Clear vision occurs when light rays enter the eye through the cornea, or front layer of the eye, and then refract, or focus, to a single point on the retina. The retina collects this optical information and sends it to the brain, where it is processed as an image. When the eye is too short, too long, or irregularly shaped, the light rays are not able to focus correctly on the retina. Dr. Cohen can correct several refractive errors by precisely reshaping the cornea during LASIK eye surgery at our St. Louis office.

Dr. Cohen and LASIK with IntraLase can help you achieve all of this—while adding the assurance of knowing you are being treated with the most advanced technology available

Visualize Life-Changing Surgery

illustration of LASIK process

The LASIK Procedure

Laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis is a two-step outpatient procedure that is performed at our state-of-the-art eye care practice
 
"Dr. Cohen uses the VISX Star S4 laser with CustomVue Wavefront technology for unparalleled precision."
"Dr. Cohen uses the VISX Star S4 laser with CustomVue Wavefront technology for unparalleled precision."

Preparation

During the patient evaluation, Dr. Cohen will measure your cornea using WaveScan™ technology. This creates a detailed "map" of your eye, allowing him to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Dr. Cohen will then utilize the digital scans to accurately plan the surgery. 

Creating the Flap

To begin, Dr. Cohen will apply topical anesthesia to the eyes to keep you comfortable while he creates a very thin flap on the surface of the cornea. Using the IntraLase method, the doctor will apply pulses of laser energy to make this modification. The flap will then be lifted to allow access to the deeper layers of tissue.

Refinement

Next, Dr. Cohen uses the VISX Star S4™ laser with CustomVue Wavefront technology to reshape the cornea. In cases of nearsightedness, Dr. Cohen flattens the cornea to bring images into the correct focus on the retina. For our farsighted patients, we steepen the cornea so the incoming rays of light can reach the retina and focus properly. For those patients with elevated levels of astigmatism, treatment includes adjusting the curvature of the cornea. 

Closing the Flap
 

When your LASIK treatment is complete, Dr. Cohen will replace the corneal flap, which will reseal to the eye without the aid of sutures. The bladeless, computer-guided technology we use is far more accurate than the mechanical microkeratomes (hand-held devices with a thin metal blade) that many other surgeons use to create the corneal flap. This not only minimizes risk but also speeds the recovery process.

Recovery

Patients will need to wear an eye shield for a day or two, but in most cases, will be able to return to work and normal activities after that time. Dr. Cohen will be able to provide more specific post-operative LASIK instructions according to patients’ individual lifestyles. Vision may be blurry for a few days after, but most patients notice results within a few hours. In some cases, recovery will be more progressive and take a few months. Let us know if you have any questions about recovery and follow-up.

Take a Closer Look...

Are You Interested in LASIK Surgery? Visit Our Practice for a Consultation

Cohen Eye Associates office

Based in St. Louis, the team at Cohen Eye Associates is here to provide answers to all of your LASIK surgery questions.

Are you tired of wearing glasses or contact lenses? Would you like to experience clearer vision that lasts for years to come? Laser vision correction may be just what you've been waiting for. If we find you are a good candidate, Dr. Cohen and his team can answer any further questions you may have about the LASIK procedure.

To speak with a surgeon about laser eye surgery, contact our practice online. You can also reach our St. Louis office by phone at:

(314) 361-5003


Based in St. Louis, the team at Cohen Eye Associates is here to provide answers to all of your LASIK surgery questions.

Helping the People of St. Louis See More Clearly "My surgery was amazing without complications"

1

Christine Owens

St. Louis, MO

2023

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Dr. Buchser and her staff are thorough and personable. My vision is much improved since I started receiving care here about a year ago. Dr. Buchser looks at my overall eye health, not only my vision. I'm very impressed with her care. My cousin and my friend both receive care from this office. Now my husband and I go here, as well. You won't find higher quality care anywhere.

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1

Mary Ann Tuchschmidt

St. Louis, MO

2023

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Everyone in the office was professional, kind and caring. Dr. Cohen is a great doctor, caring and always available. My surgery was amazing without complications. I would recommend the doctor to anyone having eye problems.

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Imagine Seeing the World More Clearly

Before and after LASIK

"The entire experience was excellent!"

"I must say that the entire experience was excellent! The office personnel were knowledgeable, professional and very helpful.  They addressed my concerns regarding eye surgery and made me feel perfectly comfortable with the upcoming procedures." Barry Hollander, 5-Star Review From 2022

Are You Ready to See Things Differently? Schedule an Appointment for LASIK Surgery

If you're looking for an alternative to glasses and contacts, LASIK may be the eye surgery you've been waiting for.

Dr. Cohen has performed LASIK for nearly thirty years, and has practiced as an eye doctor since 1980. He's changed countless lives in the greater St. Louis area, and looks forward to working with you.

To learn more about the LASIK procedure and if it's the right option for you, contact our eye care practice online. The entire team at Cohen Eye Associates looks forward to hearing from you and discussing your treatment options.

Cohen LASIK Office Eye Glasses selection

Eye Care by People Who Care Advanced Vision Correction in St. Louis

1

Ron Heister

St. Louis, MO

2023

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Very friendly and efficient. You feel like they are covering every aspect of your eye care.

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1

Deborah Wright-Mason

St. Louis, MO

2022

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I have been a patient of Cohen Eye Associates for a number of years. The customer service is wonderful, the wait time isn’t excessive at all. Peggy in the Optical Department is one of the most professional and talented people in the business. I plan on staying with them for many more years.

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What Happens After Laser Eye Surgery? Aftercare & Results of LASIK Vision Correction

Returning to Normal Activities

While most patients can return to work within three days after the LASIK procedure, certain activities will remain off-limits until the patient is fully healed. This includes strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, contact sports such as football or hockey, and driving at night. During your periodic follow-ups at our St. Louis eye care center, we can let you know when you can resume these activities.

Improved Vision

In the months after surgery, LASIK patients should notice enhanced visual acuity without the aid of glasses or contact lenses. Dry eye and some other minor side effects may persist, but they are typically manageable if patients adhere to their aftercare instructions, which may include the use of specialized eye drops.

Protecting Your Eyesight

To ensure the results of the LASIK procedure last, patients are advised to wear goggles and any applicable protective eyewear when engaged in contact sports or combat sports, or when working with power tools and other potentially hazardous machinery. In addition, wearing sunglasses while outdoors will shield the eyes from UV damage that can affect vision quality and ocular health in the long run.

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LASIK Surgery FAQ

What Is an Ideal Age for LASIK Surgery?

LASIK patients are typically between the ages of 18 to 40. A LASIK surgeon may advise a young prospective candidate to wait until they're in their mid-20s to undergo the procedure. This ensures the patient's vision prescription has stabilized before performing the LASIK procedure.

How Safe Is LASIK Surgery?

According to the Refractive Surgery Council (RSC), more than 7,000 peer-reviewed studies have confirmed that LASIK is both safe and effective. More than 20 million LASIK surgeries have been performed in the United States, with a 96 percent satisfaction rate.

Can LASIK Cause Blindness?

No. According to the RSC, LASIK surgery has never been the exclusive or primary cause of blindness in patients.

How Can Dry Eyes After LASIK Be Treated?

Our specialists can recommend various ways to treat dry eyes, a side effect that sometimes occurs after LASIK. These include specialized eye drops, changing blinking habits, and taking certain supplements.

We Offer a LASIK Alternative Known as PRK

For a variety of reasons, some patients are unfortunately not candidates for LASIK. If this applies to you, don't lose hope. We offer PRK – a laser eye surgery that works by removing the entire outer layer of the cornea to provide vision restoration. Because PRK does not require a reshaping of the corneal flap, it can be a great option for individuals who have thin corneas that are not suitable for LASIK.

PRK is also a great choice for many individuals with especially active lifestyles or certain professions that increase the risk of ocular damage, since this procedure eliminates the risk of the corneal flap becoming dislodged. 

While PRK is very effective, it does have a significantly longer recovery time. Patients can expect to have blurry vision for a week. If you choose this surgery, you will likely need a month for your vision to fully stabilize to its newly improved level. 

The doctors at Cohen Eye Associates, Limited

Cohen Eye Associates, Limited

At Cohen Eye Associates in St. Louis, MO, our team offers a full-service optical shop to address all of your vision needs. We can provide you and your family a range of eye care services, from LASIK and cataract surgery to glaucoma treatment. Our doctors are members of national professional organizations including:

  • American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • American Medical Association
  • American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
  • American Glaucoma Society
  • American Optometric Association

To schedule an appointment with our eye care specialists, contact us online or call us at (314) 361-5003.

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