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Lasik eye surgeon in San Francisco, is highly experienced in serving Lasik patients in San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Palo Alto and Berkeley, California.

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Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley

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Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley on FaceBook

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408-984-1010

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Spoken Language: English

Business: Healthcare, Healthcare Products and Services

Dr. Gary Kawesch is the leading provider of eye care and LASIK in the San Francisco Bay Area.

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Other eye care offered includes Custom LASIK<, Wavefront treatment, No-Blade LASIK, thin-flap LASIK, LASEK, PRK, implantable contact lenses, refractice lens exchange and more. Contact Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley to schedule a free LASIK consultation.

Dr. Gary Kawesch is one of the leading ophthalmology experts in the Bay Area. He has been the owner, medical director, and surgical ophthalmologist at the Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley since it opened in 1992. During that time, he has performed over 40,000 refractive procedures.

Dr. Kawesch is a board certified ophthalmologist and performs all of the laser vision correction surgery for the Oakland Raiders and San Jose Sharks. Some of his clients include Carlos Santana, JaMarcus Russell, Tony Granato, Russ Ortiz, and Rachel Leigh Cook.

Dr. Kawesch uses the most up-to-date LASIK technology for all of his refractive procedures and prides himself on providing the highest quality care to his patients. At Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley, the needs of each individual patient always come first.

Perfect vision. It's what we strive for with every patient that walks through our doors. With our range of vision correction and LASIK procedures and advanced technology, we are confident that we can get you as close to perfect vision as possible.

If you want state-of-the-art vision correction from eye care professionals who truly care about your vision and the impact it has on your life Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley is focused on your needs and ready to provide you with personalized, efficient service.

Our San Francisco vision care staff is here for all of your eye care needs. From educating you on how your vision works and how to best care for your eyes to recommending the latest treatments designed to give you clear vision, Dr. Kawesch and our team are your total eye care support system.

Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley began with a vision. When Dr. Kawesch opened his vision correction practice in Santa Clara, California in 1992, he imagined it would be an eye care destination where people would come for his unique expertise and, ultimately, amazing vision results. With the success of his "pre-LASIK" procedures radial keratotomy (RK) and automated lamellar keratoplasty (ALK), growth was inevitable. Two years later, he opened an office in Oakland, and then relocated his second practice to Danville a year later.

In 1996, Dr. Kawesch was the first LASIK eye surgeon< to open an excimer laser center in the South Bay - here he offered the amazing LASIK and PRK procedures and provided thousands with the incredible life-changing benefits. In 1999, the South Bay location was moved to its current state-of-the-art Saratoga Avenue facility in San Jose, and the Danville practice was moved to a more ideal site in Pleasanton.

CUSTOM LASIK

For those who haven't heard about LASIK, it's a laser vision correction procedure, or a corneal reshaping surgery, that has helped millions get clear vision without glasses and contacts. But LASIK is more than just a vision correction procedure - it changes lives by giving patients natural vision. It opens the door to a new lifestyle, one where glasses and contacts no longer limit your freedom. LASIK continues to be the miracle procedure it was when it first received FDA approval, only now it's better.

In the vision industry, technology moves fast. New innovations come out on a regular basis, and with each progressive addition, LASIK patients are given a greater opportunity to reach that goal of perfect vision. With Custom LASIK innovations like Wavefront mapping, IntraLase laser, and B&L Zyoptix, our patients are given much more than clear vision - they get a better quality of vision.

At Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley, LASIK is the most popular procedure and one that we are constantly trying to improve. You'll find we offer the latest technology here because we care about your results. We understand the equipment and software that minimizes risk, enhances your vision results, your safety, and your peace of mind. If you have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, schedule a consultation to find out if LASIK can help you.

Can I achieve 20/20 vision with LASIK?

At Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley, many of our patients are able to achieve 20/20 vision or better with custom LASIK thanks to Dr. Kawesch's skill and state-of-the-art technology like Wavefront and IntraLase. However, as with any surgical procedure, results cannot be guaranteed. Dr. Kawesch can give you his professional opinion and let you know what results he expects you to achieve based on your personal vision characteristics. Remember, too, that the LASIK procedure is not right for everyone. If Dr. Kawesch discovers factors that might put you at additional risk for side effects like glare, halos, or other vision problems, he may recommend an alternative procedure like PRK, LASEK or Implantable Contact Lenses.

Is LASIK a safe procedure?

LASIK is considered to be an extremely safe procedure, especially when the most advanced technological innovations are utilized. San Francisco patients get more than just amazing vision results here - our combination of expertise and technology provide our patients with priceless peace of mind. While LASIK is a very safe procedure for those who are deemed good candidates, centers that approve patients with additional risk factors may put their patients in a position that compromises their safety. At Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley, we use a rigorous evaluation process to clear patients for LASIK, and we take every precaution necessary to ensure optimal results.

Why is technology so important in LASIK?

The two factors that must go hand in hand to get great LASIK results are physician skill and technology. San Francisco men and women seeking vision correction should understand that not all lasers are the same. We utilize the LADARVision and Bausch & Lomb lasers, which use a flying small-spot laser beam to target your corneas with precision and accuracy. We also use the Wavefront system to "map" your eyes and provide vision details never before possible. Read more about our innovative technologies.

How do I choose a San Francisco LASIK surgeon?

If you are interested in learning more about LASIK and what it can do for you, you want to look for a trusted LASIK surgeon who has years of experience, has performed thousands of procedures, has a history of favorable results and a low complication rate, offers financing, and delivers truly personalized care. You also want to look for a LASIK practice that offers custom LASIK along with advanced technologies like Wavefront mapping and IntraLase bladeless LASIK.

Is LASIK a good choice for patients with thin corneas?

Our advanced technology - including the Wavefront system, IntraLase laser and LADARVision and Bausch & Lomb lasers, allows us to treat a wider range of patients, including those with thinner corneas. However, if the corneal thickness is less than a certain measurement, Dr. Kawesch may recommend an alternative procedure like LASEK or PRK. LASEK and PRK are advanced surface ablation procedures, which means that instead of creating a corneal flap, Dr. Kawesch removes the micro-thin surface of the cornea (called the epithelium). This method provides a larger treatment zone and eliminates the risks involved with corneal flap creation. Schedule a consultation to find out which procedure may work best.

If you live in Palo Alto, San Jose, Oakland, Marin, San Francisco, Berkeley or Santa Clara, learn more about the incredible, life-changing benefits of custom LASIK.

LASIK providers advertise amazing results following the LASIK vision correction procedure - and the reality is that LASIK has helped countless men and women exchange their glasses and contacts for 20/20 or better vision. LASIK is an advanced procedure and can provide amazing results through the hands of experienced, well-trained surgeons who practice customized LASIK. And while LASIK does achieve incredible results for most, patient results can vary based on factors such as degree of correction, eye health, LASIK technology, and surgeon skill.

Berkeley LASIK Surgery Patient

Here's what you can expect after your LASIK procedure:

• Immediately following LASIK, you may or may not be able to see clearly right away. While some patients experience temporary fluctuations in vision, sensitivity to light, glare and halos, others will have completely clear vision. You can expect stinging, foreign body sensations, mild soreness and discomfort, and possibly dry eyes.
• You will be asked to rest your eyes and maybe nap for a few hours after the procedure.
• You will come in for post-operative exams the day after LASIK vision correction<, at the 1-month, 3-month, 6-month, and 1-year marks.
• Many patients will have functional, clear vision the very next day. For others, especially nearsighted patients in their late 30s or older and those with presbyopia, it is common to experience trouble reading for a few days (easily addressed with reading glasses).
• Farsighted patients may have trouble viewing distant objects for a short period of time.
• Dr. Kawesch will prescribe soothing eye drops to help with discomfort and encourage healing.
• You will be asked to avoid rubbing the eye during healing, to keep eyes protected in sunlight, and to refrain from activities that might cause injury to the eye.
• Dr. Kawesch will go over all of the potential LASIK complications and side effects and ask that you report any unusual vision changes.

LASIK surgeons can't promise or guarantee results. Vision correction is not an exact science, and there are too many variables that prohibit doctors from accurately predicting your LASIK outcome. Although many LASIK patients have achieved perfect vision following the procedure, not every patient will be able to achieve 20/20 vision.

There is a wide range of vision improvements that may not qualify as perfect vision but that allow patients the luxury of functional vision without glasses and contacts. Many surgeons will offer enhancements (additional laser treatments) if patients do not achieve satisfactory vision. Before you choose a LASIK center, ask for statistical information on past procedures - specifically, what percentage of patients has achieved 20/20 or better vision, what percentage has achieved 20/40 or better, and what percentage of patients has experienced complications.

Most importantly, choose a LASIK doctor with years of experience performing LASIK at a center committed to using only state-of-the-art laser technology. Experience and technology not only give patients a better chance of getting optimal vision results but can also significantly reduce the risks of adverse side effects and complications during the procedure.

Refractive Lens Exchange

Refractive lens exchange (RLE) is an elective advanced vision correction procedure that helps patients achieve improved vision and relief from presbyopia without the use of a laser. Unlike LASIK, which concentrates on corneal abnormalities, Refractive lens exchange is designed to improve the condition of presbyopia by addressing the eye's problem lens.

During this corrective technique, the eye's natural lens is removed and replaced, just like in cataract surgery. An artificial lens is implanted in place of the natural lens for permanent vision enhancement. The new lens, referred to as an intraocular lens (IOL), may be either multi-focal or accommodating for great vision at all distances. Refractive Lens Exchange has helped countless men and women get clear vision up close, eliminating the need for reading glasses.

Good candidates for refractive lens exchange have moderate or high degrees of nearsightedness or farsightedness. The advantages of Refractive Lens Exchange include rapid visual recovery, predictable results, and the elimination of any need for cataract surgery in the future.

RLE patients have the choice of three different lenses:

• Crystalens
• ReZoom
• ReSTOR

Each with its own unique advantages. A skilled vision correction surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your eye health and choose the lens that can give you the best vision results.

The Refractive Lens Exchange Procedure

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) patients are given topical numbing eye drops before the procedure begins. Your RLE surgeon then makes a tiny incision at the corneal edge. An ultrasonic probe is used to break up and remove the lens matter. The chosen lens implant is then inserted into the lens capsule.

The refractive lens exchange procedure takes only about 20 minutes, and many patients will experience clear or drastically improved vision within minutes. You are instructed to use special eye drops for a few weeks following surgery to facilitate healing. Your surgeon will let you know when you can expect to resume normal activities before you leave the office.

Possible complications of refractive lens exchange are rare but include:

• Increased risk of retinal detachment
• Infection
• Hemorrhage
• Visual distortion
• Loss of visual clarity
• Implant dislocation
• Glaucoma
• Corneal dryness
• Induced astigmatism
• Floaters
• Wound leak

As with any vision correction procedure, you can minimize your risk of complication by choosing a vision correction center with a reputation for safety and precision. When looking for a San Francisco refractive lens exchange surgeon you can trust, make sure you ask questions about experience, complication rates, and technology.

Will I still need glasses after refractive lens exchange?

The results you achieve with refractive lens exchange will depend on a variety of factors, including your vision abnormalities, the intraocular lens you choose, your lifestyle, and the current health of your eyes. Some patients will enjoy a completely glasses-free lifestyle for many years, whereas others may need glasses for tasks like driving or reading. Dr. Kawesch can give you exact statistics and a projected estimate of the results you may be able to achieve with refractive lens exchange. Schedule a consultation to learn more about what intraocular lens implants can do for you.

What's the difference between monofocal and multifocal IOLs?

Multifocal lenses are a relatively recent vision innovation that has allowed cataract and refractive lens exchange patients to receive lens replacements that truly mimic the natural lens' abilities. Before multifocal technology, monofocal lenses were the only option. Monofocal lenses provided clear vision, but only at one distance. Patients were forced to choose whether they wanted clear vision for near or far, and then had to use glasses to see at the contrasting distance. With multifocal technology, patients no longer have to choose. They can enjoy clear vision at near, far and intermediate distances with ease.

Will there be a period of vision adjustment following surgery?

After you have your natural lens replaced with a state-of-the-art intraocular lens, you will experience a period of adjustment while your eyes are getting used to the new implant and its functions. Your brain will essentially be retraining the eyes to see at various distances using the brand new lens. You may experience blurry vision, halos, glare, and other side effects. Most refractive lens exchange patients can expect this period of adjustment to last from 6 to 12 weeks, but Dr. Kawesch can give you a more personalized estimate. Dr. Kawesch will discuss what you can expect during the healing period at your free one-on-one consultation.

Which lens implant is best for me?

Each of the lens implant choices we offer - Crystalens, ReZoom and ReSTOR - have unique advantages that Dr. Kawesch will consider when choosing the one that's right for you. He will evaluate the condition of your eyes, match your needs with the capabilities of our state-of-the-art lens options, and make a recommendation based on your unique specifications.

LASIK Surgery Alternative Procedures

LASIK is the most popular vision correction procedure in ophthalmology today. However, not everyone is a good candidate for this procedure, and some patients prefer the varying techniques offered by our alternative LASIK vision correction options.

Advanced surface ablation and implantable contact lenses allow patients to improve their vision with personalized treatments designed to give them great vision results.

Advanced surface ablation (ASA) involves the removal of the epithelium (corneal surface) in order to perform laser corneal reshaping. There is no corneal flap created (as in LASIK), so flap complications are completely eliminated. For many nearsighted, farsighted, and astigmatic patients, advanced surface ablation may actually deliver better vision results than LASIK. The advanced surface ablation procedures we offer are LASEK and PRK.

What are the Differences between PRK, LASEK, and Epi-Lasik?

Implantable contact lenses (ICLs), also known as phakic intraocular lenses, can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism in a procedure similar to cataract surgery, With ICLs, permanent vision correction is achieved without removal and replacement of the eye's natural lens.

Advanced Surface Ablation or LASIK?

This question can only be answered after a thorough vision evaluation from an experienced vision correction surgeon like Dr. Kawesch. Each person's eyes are unique, and what may work well for one may not produce great vision results for the next. That's why it is so important to talk to a skilled physician who has worked with many different types of patients and performed a variety of LASIK vision correction procedures. If you have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, chances are we'll be able to enhance your vision with LASIK or one of our alternative procedures. You may be a good candidate for more than one procedure, in which case we'll present the benefits and risks of each and help you make an informed decision. Schedule your free consultation to learn more about your options today.

Ophthalmology is a branch of medicine that covers diseases and surgery related to the eyes. The medical professional who specializes in the treatment of these conditions is called an ophthalmologist. These doctors treat ordinary vision conditions such as refractive errors, and they also have the specialized training needed to help resolve more complex problems affecting your eyes.

Some of the services commonly performed by an ophthalmologist include:

• Treatment of cataracts
• Treatment of eye diseases
• Treatment of traumatic eye injuries
• Performing LASIK surgery and non-LASIK alternative procedures

Ophthalmologists must complete medical school, followed by one year as an intern and then a three year residency in ophthalmology. During this residency, an ophthalmologist receives the specialized training required to treat complex conditions affecting the eye. Some ophthalmologists may also choose to continue their education beyond their residency in order to further hone their knowledge in an ophthalmologic subspecialty. These generally require an additional two years of training.

Ophthalmologic Subspecialties

The following areas of specialization enable your ophthalmologist to cater his treatment to a more specific region of the eye:

• External Eye Diseases and Cornea: This specialization focuses on the treatment of external eye diseases, including infections, tumors, and inflammations affecting the cornea. Ophthalmologists must receive training in corneal surgery, corneal transplants, and refractive corrections, such as LASIK, to earn this specialization.
• Glaucoma: Glaucoma is an eye disease affecting millions of Americans over the age of 50. If untreated, it can lead to blindness. Ophthalmologists specializing in this area will receive training on diseases afflicting the optic nerve.
• Pediatric Ophthalmology: This specialization focuses on eye conditions and issues associated with children. These may include genetic abnormalities, traumatic injuries, and common refractive vision disorders.
• Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery<: Ophthalmologists trained in plastic surgery will have the skills required to perform reconstructive surgeries on or near the eye. These doctors commonly treat patients who have an injury or disease that results in a malformation of the eye.
• Vitreoretinal Diseases: This specialization focuses on diseases related to the retina and vitreous (internal eye fluid). These ophthalmologists are highly skilled in treatments such as laser therapy, vitrectomy (removal of the vitreous), cryotherapy, and retinal detachment surgery.

Experienced Ophthalmologic Care

San Francisco ophthalmologist Dr. Gary Kawesch has been treating patients in the Bay Area since 1992. He is the owner, medical director, and surgical ophthalmologist at the Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley, where he has performed more than 40,000 refractive procedures during his career.

Dr. Kawesch is board certified in the area of ophthalmology and performs all laser eye surgery procedures for the Oakland Raiders and San Jose Sharks. Some of his patients include Carlos Santana, JaMarcus Russell, Tony Granato, and Russ Ortiz.

Cosmetic Surgery<

Cosmetic enhancement can be a wonderful tool to help downplay the signs of aging and accentuate your best features. Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley LASIK eye doctor Dr. Kawesch offers the popular BOTOX™ procedure for patients who wish to minimize the appearance of crow's feet and wrinkling in the forehead and around the mouth.

BOTOX is safe, easy and effective. In as little as 30 minutes, you can receive a BOTOX injection and get back to your day with no healing delay or down time. Dr. Kawesch has helped countless men and women in the San Francisco Bay area achieve younger-looking skin with this FDA-approved method.

Improve your vision and improve your appearance! The LASIK and BOTOX team at Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley is here to help you explore your vision correction and cosmetic enhancement options.