Centers and Services: Laser Treatment Center

169 Riverside Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905

Welcome to Lourdes
Ophthalmology Surgery / Laser Treatment Center!

Lasers have been used in health care for many years. Since 1988, Lourdes Hospital has been using this innovative technology for many types of surgery: general, eye, plastic, oral, podiatry, dermatology, gynecology, and ear, nose, & throat. The future promises to bring additional applications and innovations to the medical laser field.

What is a Laser?

LASER is an acronym for Light Amplification through Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A laser is a tool which emits a specific color and intensity of light. This concentrated light can be used as a surgical instrument. The color and intensity of the light beam determines its effectiveness for a specific medical treatment. Lasers receive their color, and are named for, the materials used to produce the light. (e.g., Argon, Krypton, Ruby, and Carbon Dioxide).

How Does a Laser Work?

Lasers heat the body tissue being treated. A doctor uses a laser the same way a scalpel would be used to cut tissue. The light is so concentrated and precisely directed that the surrounding tissue is not affected.

What are the Advantages of Using a Laser?

Lasers allow doctors to make small incisions. Many patients experience less bleeding, less pain, less chance of infection, and have a shorter recovery time when a laser is used. Though lasers are state-of-the-art tools, they do not guarantee the treatment will be easier or faster. Your doctor, a skilled professional who knows your healthcare needs, is the best person to advise you whether or not your treatment should include laser services.

Are Lasers Safe?

Yes. The Federal Food and Drug Administration sets guidelines for the safe operation of medical lasers. Lourdes Hospital follows those guidelines strictly. Laser light is very powerful and you will be given protective eyewear if the choice of laser treatment requires it. There is no X-ray radiation present in the laser beam, which means it can be used during pregnancy without harm to the baby.

What are the Quality Guidelines?

In addition to federal guidelines, Lourdes Hospital studied guidelines from major laser care centers across the country. With this information, Lourdes established strict standards for laser safety and training. The laser team consists of specially trained nurses, technicians, and doctors. They are continuously improving their knowledge and skills by attending progressive, specialized institutes throughout the country. Lourdes, a regional leader in laser assisted surgeries and treatments, has introduced many laser procedures to the area.

Lourdes Ophthalmology Surgery / Laser Treatment Center has been designed with you in mind. Lasers for use in skin and eye treatments are located in a comfortable hospital setting located on the main floor inside the Atrium. Convenient parking is available in Lot D. As you turn into the main entrance of the hospital, proceed past the stop sign with the blinking light to the next stop sign to Parking Lot D at the rear of the hospital. Please enter the hospital through the Ozanam entrance at the rear of the hospital. Proceed to elevators 1 & 2 and take them to the main floor. As you get off the elevators, there is a hallway to the right; follow this hallway to the Atrium located on your left. Please check in with the Secretary in the Ophthalmology Surgery / Laser Treatment Center. The entrance is located across from the gift shop/café. If you have any special needs (e.g., wheelchair) or any questions, please do not hesitate to call:

Preadmission Testing (607) 798-5791 or Ambulatory Surgery (607) 798-5321.

For general inquiries, call Lourdes Ophthalmology Surgery / Laser Treatment Center at (607) 798-5991.

FOR YOUR VISION...

Learn more about lasers are used to treat these ophthalmological conditions: Cataract, Glaucoma, and Macular Degeneration.

LASERS AND DERMATOLOGY