Have you ever heard of the saying that money can't buy you happiness? Well, in this case, there is an exception. The gift of sight again is amazing and truly mind-blowing.
I had been thinking about lasik eye surgery for years, but recently just started really looking into it. A friend got hers done at Millennium 2 years ago and still talks highly of the doctor. I decided to give it a shot and filled out the Online Consultation form. I didn't hear back for a week so I followed up.
Brittany was able to squeeze me in for an appt on 6/29. She emailed me a Patient Form to fill out to bring to the appt. At the office, I signed in and gave the receptionist my ID and Form. My friend and I enjoyed free snacks/beverages from the kitchen. Later, Ann started some tests, asked a few questions about my medical history, and then Dr. Breault did some tests as well. She answered some of my questions and concerns, and provided me with a lubricant drop sample for my dry eyes.
Ann came back and told me about the cost and finance options. It was expensive but from the research I had done, this place is legit and highly recommended. They only do surgeries one day a week. I was told that since I have myopia and astigmatism (and I have small eyes), it may be a bit tough to open my eyes, but Dr. Lessner will figure out how because lasik is his specialty. I wasn't sure if I could afford the surgery, but scheduled the appts anyways. Ann gave me a folder with the center's info and the price sheet.
Days later, I received a call about a form of payment of $200? for the Pre Op exam. I was confused. I was told that it's not an additional charge--it's part of the procedure cost. So then I canceled the appts because that would have been $ out the door if I decide not to go with them. I waited until I went to another place for the 2nd appt to make my final decision. After that appt on 7/11, I decided that Millennium was THE ONE.
However I was still concerned about the cost so I called the next day. Brittany/Kelly were able to work with me and told me that there was no rush to decide. An hour later, I called back about my decision. I was scheduled for Pre Op on 7/13 and surgery on 7/15. That night, I watched videos on their website havelasik.com and YouTube of previous patients' surgeries and experiences.
At Pre Op, I sat down with Kelly, took care of my payment. Then one of the staff members did some tests and Dr. Breault proceeded with more tests. She dilated my eyes, checked my eyes' health, and prescribed eye drops that I needed to use starting that day to prepare for the surgery. Since I don't have insurance, Dr. Breault went out of her way to help me find coupons online for generic version, which was cheaper. I went to Walmart Pharmacy nearby and got the antibiotic drop.
7/15: A friend drove me to the office for the procedure 3:30pm. A staff checked my vision, asked if I think I would need Xanax, I said no, she took my Consent Forms, and then Dr. Breault checked my eyes again. There was some down time while Dr. Lessner was working on a group of patients. I peeked at some of the surgeries. Ann prepped me, wiped my eyes, and put in numbing drops.
I was called into an office and Dr. Lessner introduced himself. He checked my visions again, marked my left eye where the astigmatism was, and informed me that they might have to use another machine for creating the flap but that it's just as good. He also asked me if I have anyone who planned to watch the procedure live because he can do a little shout-out.
When it was my turn for the surgery 6pm, I got so nervous. The staff helped me lay down on the bed seat and Dr. Lessner explained what he was going to do. During the procedure, I was given the Panther plushy to hold onto. Dr. Lessner proceeded with the procedure. For my right eye, they had to use the other machine in another room across to create the flap. Ann held my hands because I was so nervous. The rest is just like a "laser show."
After both eyes were done, the staff and Dr. Lessner helped me get up. I was balling and couldn't stop crying because I saw the clock that everyone was talking about. Dr. Lessner said that he's never seen anyone so happy to see a clock. I laughed because he's right. I could see the numbers and little lines. We posed for a picture. I looked crazy but was so ecstatic about the results. I was mind blown about being able to see right away. I was given a pair of sunglasses. After the staff finished with the rest of the patients, Dr. Lessner re-checked our visions. Then I was given a blue pouch with some drops and instructions of post care.
My eyes had discomfort for a while but the numbing drops helped. By 1am, my eyes felt better. Next day, I went back for follow up and Dr. B. said I have 20/20 vision. Even though Millennium was way farther from where I live and more expensive, it was worth every penny. I am truly very thankful for the procedure, the technology, the staff, and being able to see again. read more