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Testimonials Jan 02 - June 02
Review by anita
edmunds (Posted on 30/05/2002) Rating: 5/5
Hi me again, this is probably my last post as its just over four weeks
post op. Again I'm happy to answer any questions if you mail me. So I've
gone from being about +6.5 to -.75 I have no dry eyes or night vision
problems i was warned about, My vision is one line less than 20/20 and
most days are fine - I've have about one day per week of blurry vision,
and since the op have had two days of bionic vision, generally though
my sight is good, not quite as good as with glasses but well worth it
- I have now plucked up the courage to go to work etc without shades on!
But have yet to smash my glasses up ! Not that brave. yet. My earlier
review is about the op and stuff so this was just to catch up. The accuvision
team has been great through out (thanks for the tea bags guys!) and yes
i really am glad i had it done. This is sad but it really has changed
my life, you know what they say about men never chatting up women in glasses?
Well people keep chatting me up! This is a bonus side effect that you
need to be aware of. Good luck if you're thinking of doing it.
Review by Jill (Posted
on 28/05/2002) Rating: 2/5
Can anyone help .... I am looking for a surgeon who is prepared to perform
Lasik on a eye which I previously had surgery .. the so called "Russian
operation" or Radial Keratotomy. I understand this precludes me from
laser surgery but surely there must be someone out there who would take
a look! In the Yorkshire area if possible, but will travel.
Review by Marie-Laure
de Montalier (Posted on 20/05/2002) Rating: 5/5
Dear indecisive one’s,
As a thirty years old French woman, I had been thinking
of this surgery for many years. First, I took information on several web
sites in order to better understand my short-sightedness and the way it
could be improved. My vision was poor (-7.5 and –7)
Scared but determined, I went to Accuvision because I wanted to get rid
off my glasses and contact lenses. My first appointment with the clinic
gave me the confidence I needed to pass on.
The day after (10 days ago), I was lying under this impressive machine
with butterflies in my stomach. Believe it or not, I never felt any pain.
I was just thinking that I was having a fabulous experience. I could watch
everything the surgeon was doing and I trusted him 100%. It looked like
being in another world, seeing all the colours of the rainbow (effect
of the laser which lasts less than 1mn in each eye).
After 25mn, I could see without any help. I came back home wearing sunglasses
and rested for few hours. I just had the feeling to be in a smoky room.
But still no pain. The day after, I went back to the clinic to ensure
everything was fine and that was it! I could see better than ever, even
better than glasses or contact lenses (20/20). A miracle. And there is
no scar in my eyes.
I would like to underline the professionalism showed by the team of Accuvision,
their kindness and the way they brought me back to the world!
And now, I can read in people’s mind! If it’s not happiness,
it looks like it is…!!!
Just do It!
M-L
Review by Leana
Isaac (Posted on 16/05/2002) Rating: 5/5
I would like to also give a "thumbs-up" to Accuvision and second
most of the 5/5 ratings that have already been posted here. I underwent
Wavefront Guided LASIK in February of this year having had a prescription
of -5.5 and astigmatism in both eyes. I've worn a combination of contacts
and glasses since the age of five and now, after my three month check-up,
I have 20/10 vision (better than 20/20). All the staff were marvellous,
especially Vikash who gave me a thorough and comprehensive consultation,
utterly professional and always very friendly. Daryus is also owed a big
thank you for setting up this fantastic practice. Another bonus is that
whilst I was there for my initial consultation, I spoke with two patients
who had literally just had their ops. I could then return the compliment
on my return visits - first hand experience really counts. I also had
the opportunity to speak with William Ayliffe, my surgeon, who also answered
my questions and made me feel at ease. Gold star for a well done operation
- no pain at all and what a result! Accuvision may be more expensive than
other clinics but then you can't put a price on your eyes. It's quality,
not quantity that matters! 10/10 I couldn't fault them on anything!
Review by Zoe
Bradley (Posted on 15/4/2002) Rating: 5/5
6.5 in both eyes with astigmatism, I was naturally curious about laser
correction. Having had a thorough consultation and the opportunity to
talk first hand to patients, two of whom had literally just had their
operations, I decided to undergo the procedure of Wavefront Guided LASIK.
The staff at Accuvision were so thorough, reassuring and friendly. Ten
weeks later, with slightly better than 20/20 vision, to say I am thrilled
with the results would be an understatement! Having worn glasses/contacts
from the age of six, buying my first two pairs of sunglasses has been
enormous fun! I cannot recommend Accuvision highly enough. I would be
more than happy to talk to anyone who is considering having the operation.
Review by Richard Hone (Posted on 09/05/2002) Rating: 5/5
My prescription was -3.5 in the right eye, -5.5 in the left, with a lot of astigmatism. I went for consultations at The Eye Clinic, Boots, Ultralase and Sunrise before I went to Accuvision. I was told at the other clinics that my corneas were too thin for the Lasik procedure (although the Eye Clinic and Sunrise did offer PRK, which I was not very keen on). I think I heard one of them say my corneas were 460 microns thick.
I went to Accuvision expecting them to turn me down as well. The people I met were very enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and made me feel confident that they would look after me, After testing my eyes they went to great lengths to show me how the flap they would create would be thinner than at the other clinics, and additionally the laser would remove less tissue, so I would still be within the limit which is apparently 250 microns of undisturbed cornea. Additionally, as I am 48 I am starting to need reading glasses, so Accuvision recommended "monovision", which means that one eye is focused for near work, and the other for the distance.
I had the operation done on 17 April. Like everyone else has said, the staff was marvelous. (Nobody held MY hand, but then I didn't ask them to). The surgeon kept telling me what a good patient I was, which he probably says to everyone, but it did help me relax. After the operation I didn't have any "wow factor" at all, I could hardly see a thing, and I had a very uncomfortable ride home in a taxi. But the next day the difference was tremendous, I went back for my check up on the tube, and even went shopping in Oxford Street.
Now that my eyes have settled down and my brain has got used to the monovision, I am very pleased with the results. My right eye, the distance eye, is very slightly out of focus which is disappointing, so I do need glasses for driving, but on the whole it has been a great success. I was very glad that I found Accuvision and that they were able to perform the surgery with their state of the art equipment. I would recommend them to anyone, especially if you have thin corneas.
The only improvement I would suggest (apart from a drinks machine in the waiting room!) would be more comfortable eye protectors at night, the plastic shields and surgical tape they give you are awful.
Review by
Brian Mathews (Posted on 04/05/2002) Rating: 5/5
After being turned down by Boots, I went to Ultralase who didn't have
the answers to the questions that I asked.
Accuvision gave me the answers with no if's and but's.
The pre-operative consultation and aftercare were great. The operation
was very quick, the staff were by my side all the way through and after.
I recommend anyone thinking of this type of operation to call Accuvision
for an appointment.
Review by
Michele Haywood (Posted on 03/05/2002) Rating: 5/5
I had wavefront guided LASIK on 27/4/02 and am absolutely thrilled with
the results. I initially had consultations with both Boot's and at Accuvision
and both clinics told me that my very large pupils increased my risk of
night vision problems. My consultant at Boot's told me he thought I'd
be fine, but when I asked how many other people with large pupils (over
8mm when dilated with drops) he'd seen and whether any had been dissatisfied
he became very vague and said 'thankfully people with pupils that large
are few and far between'! Needless to say I did not find this very reassuring.
Accuvision on the other hand told me that they routinely deal with people
with large pupils and gave the contact details of someone with a similar
prescription and pupil size (I was -3.5 in each eye). Having spoken to
her (thank you very much Michelle Henson) I was confident that Accuvision
were capable of correcting my vision.
I can't say that the procedure itself was very pleasant, but I felt in very capable hands and trusted my surgeon (Mr Ayliffe) completely. In fact the whole team are extremely professional and so confident in their technology that I couldn't help but feel I was in the best possible hands. Afterwards I can tell immediately that my eyesight was improved as I could see my friend through the window in the theatre! My eyes were uncomfortable for about 5 hrs after the op and I kept them closed as much as possible, but since then my vision has improved each day! I think it's actually better than it ever was with contacts before the op so I'm extremely happy. I'm going tomorrow for my one week post op check up and am looking forward to finding out what my prescription is.
Review by Paul
Lambert (Posted on 02/05/2002) Rating: 5/5
The service at Accuvision is brilliant. They are very friendly and professional
which increased my confidence in the whole procedure. My girlfriend had
already had the treatment so a lot of my worries had been answered then,
even so there are still anxieties when you have to go through the treatment
yourself. My prescription was quite low -1.5 and I was unsure if the procedure
would make a great deal of difference, but was assured that it would.
I had the treatment on the 20th April 2002 and my vision has increased
brilliantly since. There was no pain at all throughout and I would definitely
recommend Accuvision.
Review by Alex
Houston (Posted on 02/05/2002) Rating: 5/5
My prescription is, or was 8 in both eyes, now it's
wonderful to see things so clearly. The team are the most dedicated professionals.
I had been turned down by everyone else , these people told me that I could be helped, and they were true to their word.
It's early days yet, I only wish I had known about this clinic before. Keep up with the great work.
Alex
Review by anita
edmunds (Posted on 28/04/2002) Rating: 4/5
Had it done yesterday! I was scared and so yes I did enlist the service
of the irish handholding nurse.... With my extreme long sight the change
is shocking and my brain is taking time to get used to it so I will post
again in a few weeks/months....So yes it was uncomfortable having my eye
clamped open - I flinched on the left one and so will have a very bloodshot
look for a few weeks, but I didn't feel a thing after that. Everyone was
really nice, I could see one lime more than 20 20 right after the op but
now can't see anything more than a foot away from me - but this is normal
with +6 & +6.5 good days and not so good. I've read the paper today
without specs and sent txt msgs on my mobile and can see my watch clearly.
It did hurt later from about an hour later for 4 hours it stung, felt
like there was a brick in my eyes and generally hurt - lots, but once
it was gone it was gone, now i can feel a slight rub when i blink. I knock
a point off cause neither my partner of me were offered a cup of tea and
the waiting area/recovery room in one was a bit sparce. But I do recommend
them. Feel free to contact with questions.
Review by Dipa
Patel (Posted on 26/04/2002) Rating: 5/5
It has now been 3 months since I had Laser eye surgery and I can confidently
say that anyone considering the procedure should talk to Accuvision. I
now have 20/20 vision and it is truly fantastic. Everyday I wake up feeling
really pleased with the outcome. Just to be able to see clearly in the
morning without having to stretch for my glasses is great. Driving at
night and having the ability to read signs clearly is just amazing.
I was extremely skeptical about the whole process and fearful of the possibility that just maybe I might go blind. I spoke with the surgeon and the Accuvision team on numerous occasions and to my amazement I started feeling very comfortable once I was given a step-by-step insight into the procedure. The real turn around for me was that my eyesight was going to be taken care of by a team of people who really had a passion for what they were doing. Their confidence gave me the courage to go ahead and have the treatment that I had adamantly refused to do so before, even though many of my friends had had the treatment years before me and told me how great it was. Once I was sure of what was going to happen there was absolutely no hesitation and the fears I had before disappeared completely.
I first had a consultation to determine which treatment I would need. My prescription was –2.50 and after a thorough look at my eyes it was recommended that I should have the conventional LASIK treatment that is available to those with lower prescriptions.
The treatment took about 20 minutes. I was feeling a little tense however the Accuvision team explained all that would happen and it was very reassuring to have the team talk through exactly what they were doing. I felt no pain at all, just a little uncomfortable but having a nurse sit by my side talking to me and telling me to just relax and take deep breaths really helped. During the procedure I was just asked to concentrate on looking at the green and red lights. Before I knew it the treatment was complete and I was taken into the recovery room where I was asked to keep my eyes closed for about 30 minutes before they could be checked again to see that all was ok.
My left eye felt fine but my right eye felt a little uncomfortable. The surgeon took a look and said that he would need to wash my eyes out as specs of dust particles had to be rinsed off. This would involve lifting the flap of the cornea once again. I felt a little scared at this point but I was quickly assured that there was no problem at all. I bravely continued to be positive and trust that all would go well. After resting my eyes again for another 20 minutes or so I was told that all was fine and I was ready to go home. I felt a huge sense of relief.
The rest of the day was spent keeping my eyes shut and placing drops in every hour. For up to 8 hours after the treatment it felt like I had sand in my eyes and it just felt a little uncomfortable, but I can gladly say there was no pain involved what so ever. The next day I could not believe just how clearly I could see, I went in for a check up and I was told that all was fine and that I should continue to keep putting in the drops.
What impressed me the most about Accuvision was the aftercare I received and the time and care that was taken to ensure that my eyes were in top condition and that I was happy with the outcome.
Anyone considering the treatment should visit Accuvision for a professional and realistic opinion. I am forever thankful to the team for my ability to see clearly without the dependence on contact lenses and glasses.
Review by Nisha
(Posted on 22/04/2002) Rating: 5/5
I had bilateral WAVEFRONT GUIDED LASIK three months ago, at ACCUVISION.
I was a little apprehensive, but at the same time excited about about
the prospect of seeing clearly without putting a lump of plastic in my
eyes. Well, I'm glad to say that I have absolutely no regrets. Infact
my vision is now better than it ever was with glasses or contacts, even
at night. My heartfelt thanks to the wonderful team at ACCUVISION, especially
the optometrist!
Review by Greg
McPherson (Posted on 20/04/2002) Rating: 5/5
What can I say that hasn’t been said before?. Well unlike many of
the others who have posted comments on this site I did not have a straight
operation. I decided to go with Accuvision after researching the best
laser correction technologies available, this was a big decision because
I live in N.Ireland and have two laser clinics within driving distance.
When I arrived at Accuvision I was made very comfortable and was impressed
by the modern clinic. I was apprehensive at this stage because I was so
scared that my eyes would not be suitable. After the pre-op assessment
I was given the thumbs up.
I arrived the following day and was quite nervous about the op, actually I was shitting myself, I was alone in London and in a couple of hours I might be blind !! Went through the usual pre surgery routine and was soon lying back on the bed staring up at red laser beams. The staff at this stage was magnificent. I don’t mind pain but hate needles and the thought of someone cutting the top off my eye was like needles X 100. The first stage of the op is to cut the corneal flap and due to that fact that I have narrow recessed eyes this posed quite a few problems. After some discomfort the flap was cut and within a few minutes the operation was over and they moved over to my other eye. Unfortunately they were unable to cut the corneal flap this time due to my protruding skull. I was very deflated but Darius and Co. were very encouraging and professional. The situation was reassessed the following day, I had one 20/20 eye and one bad one. It was decided that I come back in 2 weeks for reassessment. To cut a long story short they successfully operated on me and achieved a reasonable correction although not 20/20.
I am due back for post op assessment soon where they may might make a slight enhancement.
To summerise this experience I would say that without doubt I would recommend Accuvision because complications do occur and it is maybe only then that the true expertise of the operating team can be witnessed. I am thrilled with the results so far and still find it hard to believe I don’t need contacts or glasses again.
I regularly see advertisements in the national press for cut price eye surgery but why drive a Lada when for a few pounds more you can drive a Porsche!
Many thanks to Darius & Co. for all their good work.
Review by anita
edmunds (Posted on 18/04/2002) Rating: 5/5
I've had my consultation - so nervous I was early, but I was seen early
without any hassle. I am very rare in that I'm very LONG SIGHTED +6.5
& +7, have astigmatisms in both eyes and my left eye is lazy. After
much research accuvision is the only place in the uk who will do me :-)
The staff answered all my questions, and rephrased things when i didn't
understand. They were patient when I couldn't make a decision there and
then, have customers you can call for references etc. The technology was
great - I work with computers so i know what I'm looking at. Yes I am
going ahead - very nervous, but they say there is nothing i can do which
will hinder the surgery. So in 9 days - 2 1/2 weeks after my consultation
I'll be done - yes I'll let you know how it goes, but as I've worn glasses
all day every day since I was 4 (now 26) and have a tendency to bump into
things and can't catch, anything will be an improvement. If u have questions
u can mail me.... Wish me luck!
Review by Steve
Mercer (Posted on 16/04/2002) Rating: 5/5
Well, I just had my initial consultations at Optimax (Finchley Rd) and
Accuvision. See comments under each clinic. At Accuvision I was examined
very thoroughly by a knowlegeable and enthusiastic member of staff. They
also carried out wavefront analysis, which gives a far more precise picture
of the optical defects than refraction alone. Overall a very impressive
setup. I was blown away by the high-tech kit they have there - obviously
a huge investment, so they must be pretty confident about recouping it
with sufficient patient revenues over the next few years. They've only
had about 450 patients so far, so everything's still very new & shiny
– and you can take a peek through the window into the op room. Met
one of the members of staff who'd had Lasik done there - and was invited
to see her eyes under the microscope! (which I graciously declined - they
looked just fine to me) The only disappointment was, I didn't get to meet
a surgeon as it wasn't an operating day - but they said I was very welcome
to come back & see one if I liked. One benefit of Accuvision &
wavefront: their laser would remove approx 30 microns less cornea (40
vs 70) than the Nidek at Optimax, due to the custom ablation profile.
The more cornea I can hang onto, the happier I'll be!
The main thing I gained from the day though, was to realise how being myopic (I'm -2.75 & -3.5) can stop you needing reading glasses when presbyopia kicks in in middle age. I'd read about this on the web before, but now I've seen for real. Here's what happens: when they put the drops in your eyes to dilate the pupil, it also paralyses the lens, which stops you being able to focus close up (I may not be exactly right about this – I'm not an optician, but I think that's the way it was). I found I wasn't able to see my watch with glasses on, but only had to lift my specs, and my trusty short-sighted mince pies could see the time clearly - case closed. So, you have to trade off losing some good near vision in later life, against great distance vision from now on. At least that's how I see it.
Review by Vikash
Patel (Posted on 09/04/2002) Rating: 5/5
I underwent surgery in the first week of December 2001; in fact I was
patient number three. Before treatment my vision in both eyes was between
-7.00 and -8.00 and I relied totally on my spectacles and contact lenses.
I had contemplated laser treatment for a number of years but never quite built up the courage to seek further information. It was not until a friend recommended Accuvision that I actually got the ball rolling.
On the day of the surgery I was quite apprehensive in case anything went wrong but the staff at the clinic from the ophthalmologist through to the receptionist were all very helpful, supportive and reassuring.
I was surprised at how quick and painless the whole procedure was and in fact by the next day I was able to drive to the clinic for my first post operative check up upon where I was told my vision was just off 20/20.
By the first week post operative check up I was at 20/20 vision and in fact this week I will be visiting the clinic for my 6 month check up. All in all my experience at Acuvision from first consultation to date has been a very pleasant one and the best invest I have made in recent years.
Finally it just remains for me to say thank you to everyone at Accuvision for restoring my eyesight...
Review by Bruce
Cecil (Posted on 08/04/2002) Rating: 5/5
After deliberating for many months I finally booked a consultation at
Accuvision on about 3 weeks ago. Having looked at all the information
available to me, including this site, I'd decided that if I was going
to have anything done it would be the latest wavefront guided laser procedure,
which can only be carried out at Accuvision (at least in the UK).
I was very happy with the consultation (initial testing by Vic and further testing specifically for the wavefront procedure by Darius) as all my questions were answered in full, they took plenty of time to explain all the pros AND cons, and there was no 'hard sell'. I was very impressed by the state of the art equipment used and all in all I was very happy to book up an appointment for the actual procedure. I went in for this just under 48 hours ago and now I am working at my desk, having driven in to the office this morning, happily tapping this into my computer. My previous prescription was -3.5 in my right eye and -5.5 in my left, with some astigmatism in both. Now I would describe the vision in my right eye as near perfect and slightly watery in my left = overall about as good as I ever had with contact lenses and not quite as good as I had with glasses. I can expect my vision to improve over the next days and weeks so I'm very happy - I can hardly believe that I'll never have to wear glasses or contact lenses again!
The procedure itself was very quick, uncomfortable but not painful. I was in and out of the door in less than an hour with the actual surgery taking barely 10 minutes. For the first 4-5 hours afterwards my eyes were very watery and it was more comfortable to keep them closed, which is advisable anyway. 7 hours after the operation I was in a restaurant with my wife having a celebratory dinner, my vision hazy but improving. Yesterday morning I was astonished by how much better I could see - it was a bit like waking up with my contact lenses in. At the follow up visit to Accuvision yesterday they said my eyes are healing perfectly.
I have to go for another check up in about a week so I'll update my entry after that. If anyone wants to contact me my email is bruce@aspen-airconditioning.com
Review by Joanna
Pugsley (Posted on 08/04/2002) Rating: 5/5
I had my surgery on 02/03/02. It feels fantastic to wake up in the morning
and not have to reach for my glasses. Thanks to the efforts of the Accuvision
team I can now see better than my partner.
The level of care and attention I received was second to none. Their demand for perfection has meant that I now have 20/20 vision. I cannot thank them enough for giving me back my sight and taking such good care of me.
Jo Pugsley
Review by Martin
Brady (Posted on 06/04/2002) Rating: 5/5
I had laser correction surgery on Friday 5th April, just yesterday and
I am sitting here typing this without my glasses or contacts - utter freedom!
I found Accuvision to be a remarkable bunch of people, extremely thorough and informative, and best of all - no pressure!
The consultation was very indepth and showed me everything in detail, in order to help me make up my mind if I really wanted to go through with it. I was a good candidate for surgery and I was really fed up with having to wear glasses or contacts after 20 years or so. I made up my mind to have the surgery and here I am - free!
The consultant and the surgeon went through everything again thoroughly just before surgery which left me with no doubt that I was doing the right thing.
The actual procedure was painless, although the feeling as they applied pressure to the eye to get the flap open, was a little weird. However, it was also no more than five minutes on each eye. I could not believe that I had done it. I hate anything to do with surgery and was, to say the east, very nervous indeed.
However the staff again was so brilliant in their assurances and their courteousness that I got through it with absolutely no trauma!
After five minutes with my eyes closed and 30 minutes after the surgery I was traveling back home on the train with my wife with no problem. The anesthetic started to wear off in about 2 hours and there was a feeling that I had sand in my eyes. The drops helped to sooth this and within 6 hours, it was quite comfortable.
I slept like a baby last night, after all the tension, and woke up refreshed this morning to remove the eye protectors and there it was - I could see well, without my glasses or contacts. My vision is a little blurred around the edges as I write but its getting better as each hour passes. I am assured that it will clear completely within the next few weeks.
This morning I threw out all my contacts and all that goes with them. It is s liberating feeling.
I do allot of outdoor activities such as sailing and this is going to make a HUGE difference to the quality of my life.
I cannot praise the Accuvision staff to highly, from the receptionist to the surgeon. After much research before making the decision, I also decided that whilst they are probably a little more expensive than the average, that they do have the latest and best technology and after all- it is MY eyes.
I have no hesitation in recommending Accuvision to anyone who is considering have laser eye surgery. I look foward to a visual aids-free life from now on - the only one regret - I didn't do it years ago!
Review by Karen
Prasad (Posted on 03/04/2002) Rating: 5/5
I had lasik on 20/2/02. I had been thinking about this surgery for over
ten years but was never confident with the technology available. After
wearing double glazed glasses since 8 yrs old and then contact lenses
for over 13 years I decided it was time I looked into whether surgery
was an option for me. After reviewing a number of the clinics offering
this surgery I decided to go with Accuvision. They were the only clinic
that gave me an assurance that although they couldn't guarantee I would
not still need glasses for driving/tv, there was a strong chance I would
not. All the other clinics told me I would definitely need glasses, as
after lasik I would be left with a small prescription. My prescription
was approximately -8.00 in both eyes with high astigmatism in the right
eye. I could not understand why one clinic could give me this assurance
while the others couldn't. It boils down to the laser and equipment that
Accuvision use which pinpoint your exact requirements. The surgery itself
is a big decision but Vik and Darius at Accuvision really do answer any
queries that you have and professionally guide you through the consultation,
surgery and the aftercare. You are not pushed to go ahead with the surgery
and at one point I actually felt like my surgeon Dan Reinstein was trying
to put me off! I understand there are risks with any surgery. After getting
up from the operation table I could see the surgeon's face and I knew
I'd made the right decision. Before he would have been a blurry blob.
I was tempted to look at things but you are advised to shut your eyes
and rest them. All I can say is I wish this surgery had been available
years ago and it is honestly the best thing I have ever done for myself.
My prescription now is virtually 20/20 in the left eye and 15/20 in the
right and NO GLASSES. And it has all been down to the team at Accuvision.
I would recommend them if you want to make an informed decision.
Review by Mrs
Rakhee Patel (Posted on 28/03/2002) Rating: 5/5
Date Of Surgery: November 2001. I can't describe the feeling of waking
up the next day and being able to see everything with crystal clear vision.
With my year old toddler, who loves grabbing any object in sight, wearing
spectacles was a chore. I thank Mr William Ayliffe and his team at Accuvision
for all that they have done - they treated me with absolute care and efficiency.
I strongly recommend to anyone out there seeking and considering Laser
Refractive surgery that they should go to Accuvision.
Review by Richard
Fryer (Posted on 21/03/2002) Rating: 5/5
I went to Accuvision for a (free) consultation yesterday (20/3/02). I
was impressed by the experience - pleasant environment, helpful staff,
and running to schedule. The consultation took over an hour, and seemed
very thorough, including both corneal mapping and use of the aberrometer
to measure internal refractive problems. The ophthalmologist identified
lenticular astigmatism on top of my -8 myopia. They were also able to
tell me my corneal thickness (over 600 microns), the flap thickness (150
microns) and the level of ablation (114 microns); it's comforting to know
that over half of my corneal thickness will be left untouched the op.
They also pointed out that older laser technologies (as used by some other
clinics) would have ablated over 200 microns for my prescription.
They were comfortable answering all my questions about what might go wrong, and there was absolutely no hard sell, which surprised me given that the consultation was free. They quoted me 1500 per eye (and they firmly encourage doing both eyes together), with a 20% chance of needing retreatment to refine the vision, which would be provided at no extra cost. Because of the level of my prescription, the initial surgery would not use the fabled wavefront technology, as the astigmatism is only a small fraction (2%) of the prescription. Any retreatment, however, would probably use wavefront analysis, as the astigmatism would be more significant. My spectacle prescription had included prism, which the opthalmologist found to be unnecessary. However, he pointed out that using wavefront analysis, it would have been possible to counteract a certain level of prism as part of the treatment.
Another good feature of Accuvision is the length of the waiting lists. I was able to get my consultation within a week, and was offered the option of a surgery date in three weeks time.
I left feeling reassured that the benefits of LASIK outweighed the risks, and that I would be happy for Accuvision to do the treatment. However, I think that I will have another consultation somewhere else first; not because I saw anything to concern me at at Accuvision, but simply because a second opinion seems sensible when contemplating surgery on something as valuable as one's eyes.
Review by William
Logan (Posted on 18/03/2002) Rating: 5/5
From the moment I arrived at this hospital I knew that I had made the
correct choice. The professionalism of all the staff was without equal.
I was made fully aware of the procedure and explained all the exact steps
from consultation to surgery itself. The surgery was virtually painless
and was conducted very quickly with a thorough examination following the
operation. I was delighted with the outcome and would not hesitate to
recommend this clinic to my friends or anyone who is thinking of going
for eye surgery. Ten out of ten
Review by Natalie
Bee (Posted on 18/03/2002) Rating: 5/5
I had Wavefront Lasik surgery last week and it was the best decision I
have ever made. I had over -5 prescription in both eyes, and recently
been told never to wear my contact lenses again as I've been wearing them
too long and they have damaged my eyes. I'm only 20 so knowing I need
to rely on my glasses full time was a bit of a blow so I looked into Laser
surgery. The surgery was a complete success, I now have 20/20 vision.
It's amazing, I can't thank the team at Accuvision enough they have changed
my life, I thoughly recommend this clinic to anyone, but I suggest you
do your revision on the surgery itself before hand, as even though it
was the most exciting thing I've ever done, it's also the scariest!
Review by Observer
(Posted on 12/03/2002) Rating: 3/5
Who are the practitioners? Are they registered with the General Medical
Council?
Review by Susan
Spencer (Posted on 10/03/2002) Rating: 5/5
I have returned today after having laser surgery to both eyes at Accuvision
and I have nothing but praise for the whole team who work there. They
filled you with so much trust and the results have been amazing.
Review by Denise
Hurst (Posted on 09/03/2002) Rating: 3/5
Can people add the name of their surgeon please? Surgeons move from clinic
to clinic and it would be nice to know the ones with good reputations
- and vice versa!!!
Review by Dominic
Hulewicz (Posted on 07/03/2002) Rating: 5/5
My eyes were -3.0 and -2.75 with some astigmatism.
I checked out both Boots (in Reading) and Accuvision in Fulham, but felt much more confident with Accuvision. The consultation was very thorough (Darius was excellent) and I opted for Wavefront Guided LASIK.
I had the surgery just yesterday and can not heap enough praise on the staff. They keep you informed all the time as to what is going on, and were efficient and friendly.
Although the suction part is a bit scary and uncomfortable, the op was not as bad as I had expected. There was a very sweet Irish nurse who held my hand throughout and the laser part itself took only a few seconds.
Afterwards I was very sore and could hardly open my eyes for a few hours, but by the end of the first evening I could start to see fairly clearly!
This morning most of the pain has gone and my vision is astounding. There is still quite a lot of haziness, but that will pass apparently. I have been for the 24 hour post-op checkup (which Accuvision insist on to ensure that there is no sign of infection), and apparently my vision is 20/20.
My eyes look a mess (red blotches), but are improving all the time. I can't believe that I am sitting here typing this just a day after surgery.
Yes Accuvision charge more than most, but then the Wavefront analysis is astounding. What price do you put on good vision? I couldn't fault Accuvision for anything. It's a first class service and I highly recommend them.
Dominic.
Review by Terry Downing (Posted on 03/03/2002) Rating: 5/5
I have my eyes fixed by AccuVision last Wednesday (27
Feb).
With a thinning cornea on my left eye AccuVision were very good at being
able to meet my requirements.
I have -4.5 in both eyes and at 42 I opted for my left eye to be under corrected so that I am able to put off wearing glasses for age induced long sightness.
The AccuVision team are great and there is little I can add to the other comments.
My ability to see is priceless and I am very pleased with the results. There are less costly companies offering LASIK without "Wavefront guide" but you only have one pair of eyes and you should not cut corners.
If you are thinking of having your eyesight repaired
Go for it...
I wish I had done it earlier.
Top
Review by Michelle Henson (Posted on 15/02/2002) Rating: 5/5
The treatment I received at Accuvision was first class. I could not believe
how quick and painless the procedure was. The staff at Accuvision were
very supportive and understanding. They made me feel completely at ease,
even though I was extremely nervous. It’s so nice not to have the
hassle of contact lenses or glasses anymore!
Review by Matthew
Stuart Essex (Posted on 15/02/2002) Rating: 5/5
I had my surgery just before Christmas and I can't believe what a difference
it has made to my life. Just knowing that I no longer have to grope around
for my glasses before starting the day is a revelation. I had a prescription
of -4.5 and -4.0 and could see no more than 18 inches ahead of me before
the surgery, the next day I could see clearly. I have just been for my
check-up and now have 20/20 vision something I could never have dreamed
of in my wildest dreams.
The Accuvision team were wonderful and everything was explained clearly and in a reassuring manner. They were totally realistic about what results could be expected and the timeframes involved. Their customer service really is outstanding.
This procedure is truly life altering and I have already recommended it to friends and family
Review by Pat
Wright (Posted on 14/02/2002) Rating: 5/5
I had my surgery done last Wednesday 9th January. On my first visit I
was very impressed by the professional approach of all staff and the exceptionally
high standard of hygiene. The examination was not rushed. Every step was
explained to me. I was encouraged to ask as many questions as I wanted
to and if I thought of anything before the surgery date I could phone
and discuss it with them. Everything was done to reassure me and I was
encouraged to speak to people in the waiting room who had just had surgery.
I am 57 years old and have worn contact lenses for 35 years. My prescription -5.50 was in the left eye and -5.75 in the right. I have needed reading glassed as well as contact lenses for the past 3 years, which was -2.0 in both eyes. I had contact lenses, reading glasses, varifocal glasses, and bifocal sunglasses. This worked out to be quite expensive. I also needed a large handbag to carry them around. I was given the choice of having long vision correction, which would mean having reading glasses for close work or Monovision, which I never heard of. In laymen’s terms this gives long distance sight in one eye and short sight in the other. No glasses at all. Great.
I was very nervous when the big day arrived but all Accuvision staff were understanding and helped relieve the tension. Again the whole procedure was explained to me. I had decided on the Mono surgery and the surgeon explained everything he was doing, step by step. Drops were put in both eyes, they did not sting and my eyes felt very comfortable. I can honestly say it was painless. I could see red and green lights and was told to concentrate on the green. Within 10 minutes it was over. Just 5 minutes for each eye. I was taken to the recovery room for 5 minutes and then to the examination room where my eyes were checked thoroughly. I could actually see when I went back to the waiting room. My eyes did sting and water for about an hour that was quite uncomfortable but gradually wore off. The clinic gave me drops to put in every hour whilst awake and eye shields to wear at night. I went back to the clinic the next day for a check-up and the following Friday, then a month later.
I am so thrilled with the results. I cannot believe that after all these years I am glasses free. I would recommend Accuvision to anyone.
Review by Stuart
Ayres (Posted on 14/02/2002) Rating: 5/5
After the first consultation at Accuvsion my confidence was increased
by the staff’s friendly and professional approach. I had no reason
to lose this confidence throughout the procedure and am delighted with
the results.
I had worn glasses since the age of twelve, and was unable to wear contact lenses, so to suddenly be able to go without glasses is fantastic. It’s strange, but great to think that I can now drive and watch TV without glasses, and open my eyes first thing in the morning able to see.
To those who have always had good vision it might not seem a big deal, but for me it has made a huge difference.
Review by Fiona
Ross (Posted on 14/02/2002) Rating: 5/5
I cannot sing the praises of the Doctors and staff at Accuvision highly
enough. I had been considering laser surgery for nearly a decade but it
was only after contacting Accuvision that I felt confident enough to go
ahead with the procedure. Accuvision's 'state of the art' technology could
virtually guarantee me 20/20 vision, and the patience of their staff as
I asked hundreds of questions (often the same ones repeated) was commendable.
My prescription was –3 in both eyes, I’m 40 years old and I had worn glasses since I was 13. I had two main areas of concern when I first spoke to Accuvision. The first was that I would be able to see as well after surgery as I did with my lenses, and the second was that because of my age, I would become long sighted sooner than if I opted not to have surgery. After my initial consultation, Accuvision were able to virtually guarantee me 20/20 vision after surgery. They also explained that I would (like most people) become long sighted regardless of whether I went ahead with the procedure or not and that without surgery I would in a few years or so need bifocals. Having surgery would give me approx 5-10 years of ‘glasses free’ vision after which I would probably need to start wearing reading glasses as my eye muscles weakened and I became long sighted. The promise of 5-10 years without glasses was enough to persuade me to go ahead and have the laser eye surgery. I have to admit I was scared, terrified would be more accurate, but my fears proved to be totally unfounded. The procedure took approx 15 minutes and while it was slightly uncomfortable it did not hurt at all! My vision was instantly ‘cured’, as I left the operating theatre I was able to see my glasses on the table at the far end of the room and pick them up! You are advised to keep your eyes shut as much as possible in the next few hours after the op. To be honest that was the most comfortable thing to do, as my eyes felt as if I'd been swimming in an over chlorinated pool. It was an amazing feeling to be able to read car number plates without glasses as I left Accuvision and walked to my friend’s car.
My eyes stung for about 4 hours, but after that there was no discomfort and only a slight haziness in my vision, which cleared over the next few days. I was able to drive and return to work the morning after my op.
I am a Wimbledon tennis line judge and so perfect vision is of paramount importance to me. I would not have undergone surgery unless I was totally confident in the results that Accuvision would achieve. I also work fulltime, have 2 children and my husband travels a lot. I cannot stress how much easier life is without having to worry about lenses and solutions and glasses. My children no longer have to hunt for my specs every morning!! If you are considering eye surgery my advice is DO IT.
Review by John
Erskine (Posted on 11/02/2002) Rating: 5/5
Finally decided to take the plunge when the Wavefront technology became
available and have been astounded by the results. Happy days!
Review by Kirsty
Sugrue (Posted on 02/01/2002) Rating: 5/5
The initial consultation helps to ease the nerves, as they are extremely
thorough and take time to answer all your questions. I went away without
any doubt that this was a safe and worthwhile procedure. The actual surgery
is quick and painless, although it is very uncomfortable, but you can
see, and see better, immediately. And in my case, I was completely better
with almost 20/20 vision about four hours later.
Review by Janette
Rose (Posted on 02/01/2002) Rating: 5/5
I had surgery just before Christmas and to say I was nervous is a big
understatement! I had a large perscription (-7.0 in the left eye &
-8.0 in the right), plus a minor astigmatism in both (which my normal
optician had never previously noticed!).
I would never have dared to go for surgery if it wasn't for the new wavefront guided technology, which gave me the reassurance that the surgery was more likely to be successful, as the lasers are programmed to account for individual differences in the eye and are not just standard for everyone.
I can't praise the staff enough - they were fully informative about the procedure and the results I could expect, and were very friendly and reassuring - especially with a wimp like me!
I now have 20/20 vision and the only problem I've encountered so far is getting used to not wearing glasses or contacts! I have so much confidence in the staff and technology that I would recommend Accuvision to everyone - in fact my Sister is having a consultation this week!
