If you wear glasses or contact lenses, but would like to be rid of them, LASIK surgery may be an option. Gary Bodiford, M.D., Ophthalmologist with Hannibal Regional Medical Group Vision Institute, will begin performing LASIK surgeries in January. LASIK surgery is an outpatient procedure and will be offered at Hannibal Regional Hospital. Dr. Bodiford has performed over 3,500 LASIK procedures and is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, a Fellow American Academy of Ophthalmology and is VISX Laser Certified.

During the LASIK procedure, a laser beam is used to modify the shape of the cornea to improve vision. LASIK can be used to treat nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.

To be considered a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery, several guidelines must be met. LASIK patients should be at least 18 years old, demonstrate no change in refraction for at least one year, and have realistic expectations regarding the results of LASIK eye surgery. Patients who have experienced an eye infection or injury in the past year should not undergo LASIK. A comprehensive eye exam and medical history will be taken to determine if you are a candidate for LASIK.

There is an introductory offer for this service.While the procedure is not covered by insurance, there are financing options available. Patients can pay the fee outright, use funds from flexible spending accounts, or, for approved individuals, use financing options available through Hannibal Regional Hospital.

To find out more information about LASIK surgery, or to make an appointment with Dr. Bodiford, call the Vision Institute at 573-406-5730.