You don't have to squint to see what makes us one of the top notch eye surgery centers in San Antonio! With over 30 years of trusted experience in ophthalmology and over 25 years of fellowship training in refractive surgery, Dr. Nader Iskander is a premiere eye surgeon providing exceptional eye care to patients locally, nationally and internationally. Our state-of-the-art San Antonio practice features an accredited surgery facility with advanced diagnostics, and surgical technology. Our commitment to our patients is honest assessments with effective eye treatments and excellent visual results delivered with compassion. For ophthalmology and LASIK in San Antonio, trust the experts at San Antonio Eye Specialists.
Our founder, Dr. Nader Iskander, MD, FACS is a renowned, board-certified anterior segment ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained refractive surgeon. Dr. Iskander and his esteemed team of medical professionals are dedicated to providing comprehensive vision care for every patient that comes into their office. Browse our eye care treatments below to see how we can help change your life with amazing new vision.
Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, known as LASIK, is the most commonly performed laser vision correction procedure that is used to correct myopia, hyperopia, and/or astigmatism. This life-changing procedure is designed to correct the refractive error and allow you to achieve your best corrected vision. Say goodbye to cumbersome glasses or uncomfortable contact lenses and start enjoying visual freedom with LASIK in San Antonio from San Antonio Eye Specialists!
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Experiencing blurry vision? Do colors seem faded? Are you struggling with poor night vision? You may have cataracts simply caused by the natural aging process of the eye. Our all-laser cataract removal treatment is precise, predictable and non-invasive. Your eyes don't need to act their age!
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Photorefractive Keratectomy, known as PRK, is a type of laser vision correction that is performed on patients to correct myopia, hyperopia, and or astigmatism. PRK is a great option when a patient has thin corneas, corneal irregularities, epithelial cell deficiencies, or strong refractive prescriptions. Ask our eye care experts if PRK is the right vision correction solution for you!
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An Implantable Collamer Lens, or ICL, is a small, injectable lens that is inserted behind the iris through a minuscule 3mm incision. Also referred to as a phakic IOL, an ICL does not require the natural lens of the eye to be removed. Instead, an ICL implant is injected behind the iris, where neither you nor an observer will be able to see it. The quick procedure takes less than five minutes and is performed on one eye at a time. Patients can see well immediately. This is a fantastic option for patients with moderate to severe myopia!
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Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) also known as a Clear Lens Extraction (CLE) is a refractive procedure popular among patients in their 40s and 50s. A RLE procedure is virtually identical to cataract surgery in which the natural lens is removed and replaced by an Intraocular Lens (IOL) implant.
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Although we specialize in refractive surgery, the art of allowing you to see without the aid of glasses and contacts, we also provide safe and effective eye care treatments for our patients in San Antonio and the surrounding areas. We will communicate candidly with you to create a customized treatment plan whether you are suffering from chronic dry eyes, glaucoma, eye allergies, or unusual eye growths. Every family member and all eye care needs are important to us.
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“After I got LASIK three years ago, everything's changed and really everything has been crystal clear . . . My only regret is not getting the surgery earlier because the results have been phenomenal.”
Schedule - Easily schedule a free consultation with our eye care experts. Our office is conveniently open M–F 8:30AM to 5:00PM.
Meet - Meet your surgeon on the first day of your consultation. Our team is here to help you feel comfortable and confident!
Plan - Our doctor will be there every step of the way to guide you through a personalized treatment plan. Rest easy knowing that you are in expert hands.
Procedure - Our modern procedures are fast, safe, and effective. In cases like LASIK, most patients will be ready to get back to their lives after a short recovery period.
Live - Use your clear vision to live your life to the fullest. Whether you wanted to shave a few strokes off of your golf game or want to learn how to scuba dive, you won’t have to worry about glasses or contacts holding you back anymore!
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We understand that trust is a major factor when choosing an eye surgeon. We depend on our eyesight for almost everything in our lives and we want you to feel comfortable knowing that your vision will be protected and your money well invested. Read what some of our patients have to say about our laser eye surgery and eye care treatments.
We believe that safe and effective eye treatments should be available to almost anyone in the San Antonio area. We are proud to provide a variety of options that can make your vision dreams a reality. We accept most insurance plans and can walk you through a variety of easy financing options. We also offer significant discounts on LASIK, as well as price matching options. Get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team to find out how we can improve your vision without breaking the bank!
Our eye care center offers some of the most advanced diagnostic and treatment technology in the San Antonio area. Devices like the IOL Master 700 and Nidek OPD-Scan III allow our team to quickly and effectively diagnose your eye issues or determine the best type of vision correction treatment. Surgical technology like the Z500 LASIK with EX500 Technology and Contoura LASIK allow us to perform surgical procedures safely and efficiently, without compromising the end result.
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At your free LASIK consultation, you will personally meet Dr. Iskander, our board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained refractive surgeon. Who better to ask all your questions to than the surgeon himself. It is completely free, with no hidden costs! We ask that you set aside 60–90 minutes of your time to see if you are a good candidate for LASIK, PRK, or any other refractive eye procedure to correct your vision without the aid of glasses and contacts. We will perform some preliminary diagnostic tests to examine the curvature of your cornea and check the corneal thickness.
Short answer is, refractive procedures are typically viewed as elective surgeries. However, some vision plans may offer an additional discount towards LASIK or PRK that we can apply to the final cost of the procedure. All other procedures (ICL, RLE/CLE, and laser-assisted cataract surgery) are not usually covered services with insurance.
San Antonio Eye Specialists is located in north central San Antonio, visible directly off the 1604 highway close to Bitters Road. Our address is 2810 North Loop 1604 West, Suite 200, 78248. If you need further assistance, please view our interactive map or you can reach out to our team for more information.
Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, known as LASIK, is the most commonly performed laser vision correction procedure that is used to correct myopia, hyperopia, and/or astigmatism. Millions of people world-wide have had LASIK. LASIK is one of many vision correction surgeries that work by reshaping the cornea, the clear front of the eye, so that light entering the eye can be properly focused on the retina to provide clearer vision. LASIK is a quick procedure that is virtually pain-free and allows for almost immediate results.
Dr. Iskander, medical director and lead refractive surgeon of San Antonio Eye Specialists in San Antonio, Texas, has been performing LASIK for over 25 years and is one of the few LASIK surgeons in the San Antonio area to have completed fellowship training in refractive surgery. He is highly regarded in his field and sought out by colleagues and associates as an expert in complex cases. Dr. Iskander has also coauthored a book on LASIK. In his private practice, there is in excess of 200 years of combined eye care experience among Dr. Iskander, his associates and extensive professional eye care team. Dr. Iskander continually keeps up with new technology, researching and implementing proven technologies and surgical techniques for his patients in order to achieve the highest visual results attainable. For LASIK from one of the most trusted surgeons in the area, trust San Antonio Eye Specialists.
LASIK is the most commonly performed refractive surgery and for good reason. It provides outstanding results, is virtually painless and offers fast results. So, it’s no surprise that it is such a sought after procedure. However, not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK.
There are many factors that go into determining if a patient is a good LASIK candidate. Generally speaking, patients considering LASIK should be at least 18 years old and have a steady prescription with good general and ocular health. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not have LASIK due to a fluctuation in hormones and changes in refractive prescription. Certain health conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders or certain eye diseases can interfere with a patient’s eligibility. Dr. Iskander and his skilled team at San Antonio Eye Specialists conduct a thorough screening on all patients considering LASIK. Age, general and ocular health, lens prescription, even lifestyle and occupation are important considerations when determining eligibility.
The good news is, even if you aren’t an ideal LASIK candidate, there are other refractive options. Many patients come consult with Dr. Iskander thinking LASIK is the only option for removing glasses or contact lenses. This is not true, Dr. Iskander will help you find the procedure that is best for you.
During your complimentary refractive consultation, the team at San Antonio Eye Specialists will perform a series of diagnostic tests to help determine if you are a good candidate. If you are a good candidate for LASIK, Dr. Iskander and his team will take additional tests needed for LASIK surgery to maximize a patient’s visual results. For example, some patients elect to have one of our most advanced LASIK procedures called Contoura technology. This specialized device captures special images of your eye that integrates with the EX500 excimer laser. Contoura technology often results in better than 20/20 vision and improved night vision, eliminating the need for glasses and contact lenses.
To perform LASIK, Dr. Iskander will use eye drops to numb the eye and make sure you are comfortable. In order to keep the eyes open during the procedure without blinking, a speculum holds the eyelids securely. He will then create a very thin protective corneal flap using a femtosecond laser. This flap is carefully lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue. Next, the excimer laser is used to shape the corneal tissue to the exact specifications based on your individual measurements to bring your vision into clear focus. The protective flap is then carefully repositioned and serves as a natural bandage as the eye heals. The LASIK procedure typically takes less than 10 minutes for both eyes. There is mild to minimal discomfort and results are almost immediate. Patients will need to be driven home on the day of their procedure. All patients are encouraged to keep their eyes lubricated and moist to facilitate healing. Dr. Iskander encourages all his patients to return home and sleep as much as possible. The next day, patients are seen for their one-day post-op appointment. Many patients come alone for this appointment as they are able to drive alone. Once examined, patients are free to return to their normal routine such as work or school, within 24 hours. Yes, it’s that fast of a recovery time! There is virtually no pain with LASIK and usually patients can see 20/20 or better the next day after surgery. Sports activities are encouraged after a week, just be sure to avoid rubbing your eyes or being exposed to any face trauma. When it comes to LASIK surgery in San Antonio, Dr. Iskander is here to explain the process each step of the way.
Almost all patients that undergo LASIK will not need glasses once the procedure and healing are completed. The ultimate goal of LASIK is to help patients achieve visual freedom from glasses or contact lenses.
LASIK is FDA Approved as early as 18 years of age, provided the vision is stable and unchanging. The overall health of the eye is also factored into LASIK. Certain health issues may preclude you from the procedure. A patient cannot have LASIK if cataracts are present so cataracts must first be removed. Generally speaking, the earlier you invest in LASIK, the more enjoyment you will have from visual freedom.
LASIK eye surgery is such a speedy procedure — usually only lasting a few minutes per eye — that only local anesthesia is required during the surgery. Don’t worry; you will feel no pain and only slight pressure as our experienced LASIK surgeon meticulously and efficiently corrects your vision.
A cataract occurs when the clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque over time. This is part of a natural process as we age, but a cataract can occur for other reasons such as eye trauma or diabetes and some patients have congenital cataracts (present at birth). Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over the age of 40 and the leading cause of blindness around the world. Most people will develop a cataract during their lifetime, but at first they are hardly noticeable. As the cataract matures in opacification, many patients will experience loss of vision, loss of seeing vibrant colors resulting in objects having a yellowish hue, trouble reading small print at a distance, such as street signs, and most describe glare and halos while driving at night.
Cataract removal surgery in San Antonio is nothing like it was 30, 20 or even 10 years ago. Our leading refractive surgeon, Dr. Iskander, uses an all-laser technique, which helps make cataract removal more precise and more predictable than ever before. Even a surgeon with steady hands cannot duplicate the accuracy and predictability like that of the laser. Laser cataract surgery uses a femtosecond laser rather than a blade to create the incisions for dissolving the cataract and creating the opening needed to remove the cloudy portion of the lens. Dr. Iskander is a proponent of laser-assisted cataract removal for optimal visual results.
San Antonio Eye Specialists also offers multiple premium lens upgrades. Multifocal lenses help patients see near, intermediate and distance vision. Toric lenses help patients with astigmatism see well in the distance with little or no dependence on glasses. In fact, patients that elect to have a premium lens implants can do most things, most of the time without glasses.
Often, patients will ask, “When should I have my cataract removed?” Dr. Iskander will generally tell his patients, “When your cataract begins to interfere with your vision, it’s time to have cataract removal surgery.” However, there are other determining factors in when this should be. Since cataracts can cause symptoms to occur very slowly, over several years, some patients don’t realize they’ve had a loss of vision. This is why it’s best to schedule a cataract examination at San Antonio Eye Specialists, especially if you have been diagnosed with cataracts, have any symptoms of vision loss or issues with glare and haloes while driving at night. Dr. Iskander and his skilled team of professionals will perform a series of diagnostic tests to assess if cataract surgery is warranted or can be delayed to a later date.
Cataract surgery today is performed as an outpatient procedure at a private ambulatory surgery center. After being checked in, the surgical team will monitor vital signs such as blood pressure and go through your recent medical history. Next, the patient is taken back to the operating room and prepped for surgery. Dr. Iskander will place numbing drops in the eye, then a couple of small openings are created in the cornea, either manually by the surgeon or via the laser in order to gain access to your cloudy lens. Next, Dr. Iskander will make a small opening on the outer surface of the cloudy lens which can be achieved manually or by laser. This procedure is called capsulorhexis. Think of the cataract being like an M&M candy. The surgeon is removing one side of the candy coating to get the chocolate, or in this case, the cloudy lens of the eye. Dr. Iskander will then cut the cloudy lens into multiple sections, making it easier to remove. All of the steps above can also be performed with laser-assisted cataract surgery. Afterwards, Dr. Iskander will use a procedure called phacoemulsification which uses ultrasound to further breakup the cataract and remove it using suction. Once the cataract is removed, Dr. Iskander will insert a new lens, which replaces the old cloudy lens. Patients are sent home accompanied by a driver and return the next day for a follow-up post operative visit.
Dr. Iskander removes one cataract at a time. If you have bilateral cataracts (cataracts in both eyes) he will perform surgery on the dominant eye or the eye with the more mature cataract. Usually after a couple of weeks, the second eye is scheduled for surgery.
If a patient is referred to the practice by an optometrist, the patient may be co-managed. This means the patient receives surgical care from the ophthalmologist, Dr. Iskander, and then returns to the referring optometrist for continued post-operative care after the one-day post-op appointment with Dr. Iskander to ensure the eye was examined after surgery. This is done for convenience for the patient. For cataract surgery in San Antonio from a world-class surgeon, trust Dr. Iskander and the team at San Antonio Eye Specialists.
Photo Refractive Keratectomy, known as PRK, is a type of laser vision correction that is used on patients to correct myopia, hyperopia, and or astigmatism. It is one of the most common laser vision correction procedures, along with LASIK, and the two procedures share many similarities.
PRK was FDA approved in the mid 1990s. It is an excellent alternative for those who are not good candidates for LASIK laser vision correction. Dr. Iskander, the medical director and leading refractive surgeon of San Antonio Eye Specialists, has been performing PRK in San Antonio for over 20 years. PRK uses the same laser technology as LASIK laser vision correction.
PRK is often used when a patient has thin corneas, corneal irregularities, epithelial cell deficiencies, and or strong refractive prescriptions. Below are some additional details on why some patients might be a better candidate for PRK vs LASIK.
Corneal Thickness: Patients who have thinner corneas may be better suited for PRK vs LASIK because LASIK requires the creation of a protective corneal flap and PRK does not. PRK involves less tissue of the cornea with the laser, which leaves more residual tissue for a stronger cornea.
Corneal Anomalies: Some patients might have corneal scarring from trauma or long-term contact lens wear. Some have corneal opacities, surface irregularities or corneal dystrophies. Oftentimes, doctors have to use a procedure called Photo Therapeutic Keratectomy or PTK in order to correct the corneas. PTK allows the removal of superficial corneal opacities and surface irregularities, but does not correct for visual errors. PRK can correct visual errors AND correct the same issues that PTK does as well, all at the same time.
Vision Prescription: For patients that have large amounts of myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and or astigmatism, more corneal tissue must be removed in order to correct the cornea to its ideal shape/prescription. Even if a patient has normal or thick corneas, patients with high prescriptions may be a better candidate for PRK because less tissue is involved vs LASIK, since a corneal flap is not created with PRK.
Employment & Recreation: Since PRK laser vision correction doesn't require the creation of a corneal flap, it is often the preferred procedure for those who work in industries such as construction, the military, or fields in which there is a risk of displacing a corneal flap created by LASIK. This is important, because if their eye were to suffer trauma, in some cases, the protective corneal flap (only created in LASIK, not PRK) could become dislodged. For example, military pilots could have to eject at any time and face hand to hand combat over enemy territory. Professional boxers or UFC fighters get hit in the face all the time. Construction workers could have objects fall on their face, possibly affecting the eye. The same holds true for people involved in martial arts or boxing classes. In general, if your career, recreational sports or hobbies could displace your corneal flap, that is created by LASIK, then PRK would be a preferred option as an alternative laser vision correction treatment.
PRK is virtually the same procedure as LASIK, except a protective flap is not created. Dr. Iskander begins the procedure by numbing the patient’s eye with numbing drops, and placing a speculum in the eye to hold it open during the procedure. Next, he gently removes the outer most layer of cells on the eye, called epithelial cells, using a special instrument. After the cells are removed, he then uses an excimer laser to gently reshape the cornea surface to the targeted prescription, with no flap creation. After the laser treatment is completed, Dr. Iskander places a clear contact bandage lens on the eye which the patient will wear for approximately one week.
PRK does have slightly more discomfort than LASIK and does require a longer recovery time, up to one week. This is very normal and to be expected with PRK. Patients who undergo PRK eye surgery will typically be able to drive within a few days, and their vision will continually improve during the week-long recovery. 20/20 vision or better is the desired goal for both LASIK and PRK, only the surgical process and healing time differ.
All our laser vision correction consultations are absolutely complimentary and at that appointment, you will learn if you are in fact a good candidate for laser vision correction. If you are a candidate, Dr. Iskander will discuss which laser vision correction procedure is best for you. Dr. Iskander personally meets, evaluates and creates a treatment plan unique to each patient prior to any surgical intervention.
Refractive lens exchange is an elective procedure not covered by medical insurance plans. As such, we offer financing options and accept FSAs and HSAs to offset the price of surgery. Contact our office to learn more.
In addition to improving vision, a RLE procedure done bilaterally can reduce a patient's likelihood of developing cataracts.
During your RLE procedure, Dr. Iskander will use anesthetic eye drops to numb the eye. This helps make the procedure pain-free.
The Visian ICL™ is used to correct a wide range of myopia without the need to remove corneal tissue, like an IOL implant procedure. The ICL is a small, foldable lens that is injected through a tiny 3mm incision that does not require sutures. The ICL provides excellent quality of vision and optical performance due to its placement inside the eye. The lens is made of collamer, which provides unparalleled biocompatibility.
No, unlike a contact lens, the Visian ICL™ is designed to remain in place within the eye without requiring maintenance. Dr. Iskander recommends an annual eye examination to ensure everything is fine, but generally we see little to no change in the ICL's placement or performance over time.
No. Because the ICL is positioned behind the iris, neither you nor an observer will be able to identify the lens in place.
The information provided on this website is for laser vision correction information purposes only. The information on LASIK, cataract surgery, and other vision correction procedures is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice or treatment. All medical advice and treatment options will be provided by Dr. Iskander at the time of your consultation.
If you are inquiring about laser vision correction, cataract surgery, or LASIK, please call San Antonio Eye Specialists at 210-851-9883. Upon your consultation, you’ll meet with Dr. Iskander to discuss your options toward better vision.Dr. Nader Iskander brings over 20 years of experience to San Antonio Eye Specialists for LASIK surgery, cataract surgery, and other laser vision correction procedures. Dr. Iskander is one of the nation’s leading ophthalmologists and has received numerous honors and awards for his contributions to the science of ophthalmology.
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