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Is Age a Barrier for LASIK?

Good news! Age doesn’t have to be a barrier to have LASIK. While the typical LASIK patient falls between 20 and 45 years old, the FDA only requires candidates to be at least 18. As long as your vision prescription has stabilized for at least a year, your eyes are healthy, and you’re in good overall health, you may be a good candidate for LASIK even after 50.

Why There’s No Upper Age Limit on LASIK

The FDA stipulates that the minimum age for LASIK candidates is 18, as our eyes and prescriptions may still undergo frequent changes before that age. However, there’s no upper age limit for LASIK, and the decision to undergo the procedure is based on individual health and vision factors.

LASIK Monovision

Here are some things to consider for LASIK after 50:

  • Presbyopia: After 45, many people experience near vision issues due to presbyopia. While LASIK isn’t always the best solution for presbyopia, TLC offers other vision correction technologies like Monovision.
  • Cataracts: Cataracts, which often develop after 55, can significantly impact vision. In most cases, cataract surgery is the preferred treatment option for older patients with vision problems.
  • Health conditions: Certain health conditions may impact your candidacy for LASIK. However, don’t rule it out based on health alone. Discuss your individual situation with a TLC LASIK specialist to determine if it’s a safe and effective option for you.

Basic LASIK Candidacy Requirements:

For LASIK candidacy, a stable vision prescription for at least one year, the absence of eye diseases, and good overall health are essential. It’s important to note that good overall health doesn’t have to mean perfect health, and consulting with a LASIK specialist is the best way to understand how laser eye surgery aligns with various health needs.

Regardless of age, if you’re curious about LASIK eye surgery’s suitability for your vision health needs, schedule a free consultation with a TLC LASIK specialist. Determine your candidacy and explore the potential benefits of laser eye surgery tailored to your unique requirements.

Ready to ditch your glasses and contacts for good? Schedule a free consultation with TLC LASIK specialists today! We’ll assess your vision health, discuss your options, and help you find the perfect solution for clear vision in your golden years.

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Is LASIK Eye Surgery Covered by Insurance?

Many who are considering LASIK eye surgery often ask one common question: Is LASIK covered by insurance? The short answer is that LASIK is an elective surgery and not typically covered by insurance plans, but there are options available to help cover the cost of LASIK laser eye surgery. Financing options are available for LASIK patients. Ahead, we’ll review some of the most popular options for covering the cost of LASIK surgery.

Options for Financing Your Laser Eye Surgery

Insurance Savings and Partial Coverage through Insurance

While LASIK insurance coverage is rare, it’s important to note that some insurance plans and employers do provide partial coverage for LASIK surgery. TLC Laser Eye Centers work with many major vision insurance providers to offer LASIK savings, and the savings apply on the day of the procedure so that you don’t have to wait for reimbursement. The TLC team will work with you to make sure you’re getting the most savings possible.

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LASIK Financing in the US

TLC Laser Eye Centers offer financing options for laser eye surgery patients. We work with CareCredit, a credit card created specifically for healthcare needs which offers special financing options. If you have specific questions about the financing options available, you can learn more at your local TLC Laser Eye Center.

Health Savings Accounts

A Health Savings Account (HSA)is a tax-exempt trust or custodial account, where you can save funds to cover qualifying medical procedures. Enrolling in an HSA requires you to meet requirements set forth by the IRS, and having a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) is a key step in qualifying.

If you’re interested in using an HSA to save for medical needs, it really helps to do your research and plan ahead.

Flexible Spending Accounts

A Flexible Spending Account (FSA)requires sponsorship from your employer, and allows the account holder to pay for certain medical expenses on a pre-tax basis. FSAs can be used to cover eligible elective procedures including laser eye surgery, along with a number of other common medical needs.

Just as with an HSA, using an FSA to cover medical needs may be easier with good planning. You can use TLC’s free FSA savings calculator for an easy way to explore how it all works.

If you have any questions about LASIK insurance coverage, financing, or payment options, the TLC team is here to help you learn more. Schedule your free LASIK consultation at your local TLC Laser Eye Center to learn more about financing for laser eye surgery, discuss the benefits of LASIK, and find the options that work for you.

LASIK covered by insurance

Discover the History of LASIK

Vision problems have long been a fact of life for humans, and for centuries glasses (and later, contact lenses) were the only solution available to most people. The first glasses were developed in the 13th century, the first contacts were created in 1888, and it wasn’t until the 1970s that procedures like LASIK eye surgery began to take shape. LASIK technology is always advancing, and the history of laser eye surgery goes a long way toward explaining why people with vision problems have so many potential treatment options today.

Laser Eye Surgery Research in the 1970s

The story of LASIK begins long before the first procedure was performed, in the research halls of major universities and businesses. Throughout the late 1970s, a procedure called Radial Keratotomy (RK), which shares similarities with LASIK, was performed in the United States. A major breakthrough came in 1980, when IBM researcher Rangaswamy Srinivasan discovered that the excimer laser – initially developed for computer chip production – was able to remove living tissue without causing thermal damage. Surgeon Steven Trokel of Columbia University published a key study in 1985 detailing the effectiveness of the excimer laser for RK surgery, which helped pave the way for LASIK eye surgery.

LASIK history

The First Laser Vision Correction Procedure (1988)

The first laser vision correction procedure took place in 1988, when a 60-year old woman with a serious vision problem allowed surgeon Marguerite McDonald to perform the first photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) procedure on her damaged eye. PRK surgery was approved by Canada in 1991, approved by the US in 1995, and remains in use to this day.

The Development of LASIK Eye Surgery

While the results of the first PRK surgery helped allow the procedure to reach the wider market, European eye doctors Ioannis Pallikaris and Lucio Burrato were busy working on ways to optimize laser eye surgery. They made the discovery that creating a “flap” in the cornea, rather than treating the surface, helped to minimize post-surgery discomfort and speed up the healing process. The flap allows surgeons to address vision problems at the source, and works as a natural bandage to help with the healing process. This was the beginning of LASIK eye surgery as we know it today, and LASIK was approved for use in the United States in 1999.

Refining LASIK and Creating New Procedures

In the present day, LASIK eye surgery is still on a path of innovation, as scientists and eye doctors continue to develop new technology. Patients can now choose unique options like Bladeless LASIK, which relies on a laser to create the flap, rather than a blade. The excimer laser remains a key part of laser eye surgery, and continues to be optimized over time.

Advances in the technology used to map the eye before surgery have also been a big part of the LASIK story, with procedures like Custom LASIK and Topography-Guided LASIK providing more precise data than ever to help plan your procedure. The detailed data helps surgeons customize your procedure to deliver the best results for your unique vision care needs. LASIK patients truly now have more options than ever before.

If the history of laser eye surgery tells us anything, it’s to expect LASIK technology to continue evolving. Procedures like Bladeless “all-laser” LASIK , Topography-Guided LASIK, and Custom LASIK each offer unique benefits, but none of it would have been possible without the many people who contributed to the development of laser eye surgery.

If you are considering LASIK eye surgery for your vision correction, start with a Free Consultation at a local TLC Laser Eye Center near you. It’s a great opportunity to meet with our caring staff and get all your questions answered.

LASIK vs. Ortho-K: A Comprehensive Comparison

When considering vision correction methods, LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) emerge as distinct options, each with unique approaches and target conditions. Dive into this detailed LASIK vs. Ortho-K comparison for an insightful overview:

What is LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)?

Procedure:

  • Flap Creation: A thin corneal flap is crafted using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser.
  • Corneal Reshaping: The flap is lifted, and the underlying cornea is reshaped with an excimer laser.

Recovery Time:

  • Quick Visual Recovery: Patients often experience rapid improvement within a day or two.
  • Stabilization: Full vision stabilization may take a few weeks.

Postoperative Discomfort:

  • Mild Discomfort: Minimal discomfort during the initial hours, with reduced sensitivity to light.

Suitability:

Advantages and disadvantages of LASIK:

Advantages:

  • Rapid Visual Improvement: Immediate enhancement in vision.
  • Minimal Discomfort: Usually, minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.

Disadvantages:

  • Flap-Related Complications: Rare, but potential complications include flap-related issues.
  • Dry Eyes: Some experience temporary dry eyes.

What is Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)?

Procedure:

  • Contact Lens Wear: Specially designed gas-permeable lenses worn overnight.

Corneal Reshaping:

  • Recovery Time: Gradual improvement with full stabilization over a few weeks.

Postoperative Discomfort:

  • Mild Discomfort: Some may experience mild discomfort during adaptation.

Suitability:

  • Common Refractive Errors: Primarily for myopia control and mild to moderate myopia.
  • Presbyopia: Used for presbyopia, often combined with monovision.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Orthokeratology:

Advantages:

  • Non-Surgical: Reshapes the cornea without surgery.
  • Daytime Freedom: Clear vision during the day without glasses.

Disadvantages:

  • Temporary Effects: Requires consistent lens wear for sustained results.
  • Risk of Infection: Proper hygiene crucial to prevent infections.
  • Vision Instability: Changes through the day based on usage frequency.
  • Comfort: May be challenging to sleep with rigid lenses.

Choosing Between LASIK and Ortho-K:

  • Surgical Preference: Non-surgical preference may lead to Ortho-K.
  • Reversibility: Ortho-K is reversible; LASIK is permanent.
  • Corneal Thickness: If corneal thickness is a concern, Ortho-K may be safer.

Both LASIK and Ortho-K are effective, and the choice depends on individual factors, preferences, and refractive error. Consult with an experienced eye care professional to determine the most suitable method for your unique needs and circumstances.

LASIK OD

LASIK Eye Surgery Technology: Exploring Wavelight Laser, Contoura Vision, and More

Discover the latest in LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) surgery technology as of November 2023. LASIK has transformed ophthalmology globally, offering a life-changing solution for refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. This article delves into the intricacies of LASIK technology, spotlighting advancements such as the Wavelight laser and Contoura Vision. Stay informed about the cutting-edge developments shaping the world of vision correction.

Understanding LASIK Technology

LASIK surgery reshapes the cornea to enhance vision, leveraging lasers for precise adjustments. The Wavelight laser and Contoura Vision system represent pivotal innovations driving the success of LASIK. Explore the principles behind these technologies and their impact on refractive error correction.

Modern LASIK Technology

Wavelight LASIK Laser: Advancing Vision Precision

Uncover the advancements of Wavelight lasers, employing wavefront-optimized technology for refined treatments. Unlike traditional LASIK, these lasers focus on preserving the corneal asphericity, reducing higher-order aberrations (HOA). Learn how Wavelight lasers enhance visual outcomes by minimizing visual symptoms associated with conventional refractive surgery.

Contoura Vision System: Personalized Precision

A revolutionary LASIK technology developed by Alcon. This system integrates corneal topography and wavefront-guided technology, creating a comprehensive 3D map of the eye. Discover how Contoura Vision addresses not only refractive errors but also subtle corneal irregularities, leading to sharper, clearer vision and reduced instances of halos and glare.

Exploring Visx vs. Wavelight Laser Technology for LASIK: A Comprehensive Comparison

Navigate the differences between Wavelight and Visx lasers, two prominent brands in LASIK surgery. Delve into aspects such as wavefront technology, eye tracking systems, treatment speed, FDA approval, and treatment capabilities to make informed decisions based on individual preferences and needs.

Wavefront Technology Unveiled:

Wavelight: The Wavelight laser integrates advanced wavefront-optimized technology, aiming to preserve the corneal asphericity. By delivering precise laser energy to the corneal periphery, it effectively reduces higher-order aberrations, enhancing the correction of refractive errors.

Visx: In contrast, Visx lasers offer a choice between “standard” and wavefront-guided technology. This versatility allows for a customized LASIK procedure, addressing not only basic refractive errors but also higher-order aberrations, leading to superior visual outcomes.

Eye Tracking Precision:

Wavelight: Equipped with sophisticated eye-tracking systems, Wavelight lasers monitor the eye’s movements in real-time during LASIK surgery. This ensures accurate and consistent treatment, even if the eye experiences slight shifts.

Visx: Visx lasers also incorporate advanced eye-tracking technology to follow the eye’s movements, maintaining precision throughout the LASIK procedure. The accuracy of this system is pivotal for achieving optimal results.

Treatment Speed and Efficiency:

Wavelight: Renowned for their fast treatment times, Wavelight lasers perform high-speed laser ablation, minimizing exposure time. This not only enhances patient comfort but also reduces the risk of potential corneal dehydration or other factors affecting the procedure.

Visx: Designed for efficiency, Visx lasers contribute to quick and streamlined treatments. The speed of the laser ablation process is a key factor in enhancing patient comfort and shortening the overall duration of the LASIK procedure.

FDA Approval and Reputation:

Wavelight: Specific models like the EX500 from Wavelight have obtained FDA approval for LASIK surgery. Wavelight lasers are recognized for their precision and customization capabilities, contributing to a positive reputation.

Visx: With a long history of use in LASIK and FDA approval, Visx lasers have established themselves as a well-known and trusted brand, having been employed in numerous successful LASIK procedures worldwide.

Treatment Capabilities:

Wavelight: Wavelight lasers excel in treating a diverse range of refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The incorporation of wavefront-guided technology allows for comprehensive vision correction.

Visx: Known for their versatility, Visx lasers effectively address various refractive errors. The technology within Visx systems caters to both common refractive issues and higher-order aberrations, resulting in enhanced visual quality.

Both Wavelight and Visx lasers enjoy a solid reputation in LASIK surgery. Choosing between them hinges on factors such as the surgeon’s preference, laser model specifics, and individual patient needs. For those contemplating LASIK, consulting with eye care professionals is crucial to determine the most suitable technology for unique vision correction requirements. Make an informed decision by exploring these laser technologies in detail and understanding their distinct advantages.

Comparing LASIK Eye Surgery Technology

Femtosecond Lasers:

1. IntraLase iFS (now part of Johnson & Johnson Vision): IntraLase iFS, a cutting-edge femtosecond laser system, plays a crucial role in creating corneal flaps during LASIK surgery. With its high precision and customization features, this laser contributes significantly to enhanced safety and efficacy.
2. Alcon FS200: The Alcon FS200 is another noteworthy femtosecond laser system dedicated to crafting corneal flaps. Its utilization of low pulse energy ensures precise corneal flap creation, emphasizing accuracy in LASIK procedures.
3. Zeiss VisuMax:Recognized for its precision, the VisuMax femtosecond laser stands out in corneal flap creation for LASIK surgery. Operating with extremely short pulses of laser light, it offers a bladeless and precise approach to corneal flap creation, contributing to optimal surgical outcomes.

Excimer Lasers:

1. Alcon’s Contoura Vision:Alcon’s Contoura Vision integrates corneal topography and advanced wavefront-guided technology, providing highly customized LASIK treatments. This technology addresses both common refractive errors and higher-order aberrations, ultimately leading to improved visual outcomes.
2. Wavelight EX500:Renowned for its speed and accuracy, the Wavelight EX500 excimer laser is equipped with advanced eye-tracking and wavefront-optimized technology. Designed to deliver efficient and highly personalized LASIK treatments, it aims to enhance the overall patient experience.
3. VISX Excimer Lasers:Widely recognized for their reliability, VISX excimer lasers are extensively used in LASIK surgery. These lasers incorporate wavefront-guided technology to customize treatments based on the unique characteristics of each patient’s eyes, ensuring personalized and effective vision correction.
4. Nidek EC-5000:The Nidek EC-5000 excimer laser system, employed in LASIK surgery, offers precision and versatility in treating various refractive errors. With a focus on accuracy, this laser system contributes to successful and customized vision correction outcomes.

In navigating the landscape of LASIK technology, understanding the nuances of femtosecond and excimer lasers is vital. Each system brings its unique advantages, contributing to the precision and customization essential for optimal LASIK outcomes. For those considering LASIK, consulting with experienced eye care professionals can help determine the most suitable technology for individual vision correction needs. Stay informed about these advanced technologies to make well-informed decisions about your LASIK journey.

How Does Bladeless LASIK Work?

Are you considering the benefits of LASIK eye surgery, and wondering what type of procedure is right for you? There are many types of laser eye surgery available, with different tools, technology, and techniques to meet the unique needs of LASIK patients. Bladeless LASIK eye surgery is a common alternative to traditional LASIK, with many similarities and a few key differences. In this post, we’re going to take a closer look at how bladeless vision correction works, and what LASIK patients can expect from the procedure.

Bladeless Laser Eye Surgery: How Blade Free LASIK Works, and What to Expect

Learning about laser eye surgery options online is a great first step, but it’s important to note that only your laser eye surgeon can recommend the right procedure for your unique needs. So, if you haven’t scheduled your free laser eye surgery consultation yet, now is a great time to do so.

The first step toward learning more about bladeless LASIK is explaining some of the lingo:

 Also Known As…

During your research you may find that bladeless LASIK is referred to by a few different names, but each refers to the same procedure. Some of the common names for bladeless LASIK include blade free LASIK, and all-laser LASIK. You may also see a brand name integrated with one of those common terms for bladeless LASIK.

How Bladeless Laser Eye Surgery Works

If you’re learning about laser eye surgery, you may already be familiar with the concept of the LASIK flap, which is created at the start of the procedure and allows your LASIK eye surgeon to address vision problems at the correct level of the eye. During traditional LASIK procedures, the flap is created by an instrument called a microkeratome, which is an oscillating diamond blade.

  • Instead of using a microkeratome, bladeless laser eye surgery relies on the use of a specialized laser to create the LASIK flap. This is where the terms “bladeless” and “all-laser” LASIK come from, as well as the key difference between bladeless and traditional LASIK.
  • By using the most advanced LASIK technology, your laser eye surgeon is able to map the eye, based on the unique structure of each individual’s eye, to create a custom LASIK flap.
  • After the flap is created, the bladeless LASIK procedure works very similarly to traditional LASIK. Most importantly, bladeless surgery significantly reduces intra and post-operative complications making it a safer procedure.

What to Expect from Bladeless LASIK Surgery

While blade free LASIK has a few key differences from traditional LASIK, the preparation, procedure, and healing process share many similarities. The process begins with a visit to your local TLC Laser Eye Center for a free consultation.

  • During your free consultation, your laser eye surgery specialist will review your vision correction needs, and discuss your laser eye surgery options.
  • Before the bladeless vision correction procedure, you’ll have a pre-operative visit, which makes specific measurements of your individual eye. This is when much of the “customization” is done for the procedure.
  • On the day of your procedure, your laser eye surgery team will prepare you for surgery, and after the procedure there will be a brief recovery period. Bladeless LASIK is an outpatient procedure, which means that you get to go home the same day.
  • The recovery process begins with rest on the day of surgery, and continues with follow-up visits to check on your progress. As healing progresses and vision stabilizes, there is a longer gap between each follow-up visit.
  • While every patient is unique, most patients see very well the next day. As with any surgery it takes a time to heal. Most patients are able to resume normal daily activities within a few days and the eye is completely healed in 3 months. You are seen for scheduled visits along the way. Overall, you may notice many similarities between bladeless and traditional LASIK, along with the differences that set each procedure apart.

Scheduling your free laser eye surgery consultation is the best way to learn more about bladeless vision correction, and the laser eye surgery options available. You can schedule your consultation by calling your local TLC Laser Eye Center, or filling out a quick form online.

20-20-20 Rule: Eye Care in Today’s Technology

Digital screens are everywhere. We work with screens, play with screens, and look at screens while we’re waiting in line. All of that screen-time comes with potential downsides, and may take a toll on our eyes over time. To try to minimize the negative effects and digital eye strain of extensive time looking at screens, many eye doctors suggest using the 20-20-20 rule as part of your eye health care. The catchy name makes it easy to remember, and ahead we’ll dive into the details of exactly how the 20-20-20 rule works.

Eye Care and Digital Eye Strain

What is the 20-20-20 rule?

Whether you’re using a phone, computer, tablet or watching TV, the idea behind the 20-20-20 rule is actually very simple: every 20 minutes that you’re looking at a screen, take a break and stare at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. That’s it. You don’t have to worry about walking off the distance, or pulling out a tape measure to make sure that the object is exactly 20 feet away. The idea is to pick an object that is close to 20 feet away.

The trick is making sure that you remember to do it every 20 minutes when you’re using a digital screen, and making sure that you look at the object for at least 20 seconds. This is a rule that you can follow almost anywhere, whether using a screen for productivity or enjoyment.

What about activities that don’t require a screen?

Screen time isn’t the only activity that can cause eye strain, and the 20-20-20 rule may apply in other situations, as well. If you’re reading a paper book, writing, or doing work that requires you to focus your vision consistently on very small details, then it may also be a good idea to give your eyes a rest using the 20-20-20 rule. No matter what activity you’re doing, the basics behind the 20-20-20 rule remain the same when considering your eye health care. Take a break every 20 minutes to look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Do I really have to do it every 20 minutes?

When you’re working, reading, or watching a video, it’s easy to get caught up in what you’re doing. But yes, it’s a good idea to stay on schedule with the 20-20-20 rule whenever possible. The good news is that most of the devices you’ll be using will also have built in timers you can use to set reminders. Setting 20-20-20 reminders on your computer and phone is a great way to stay on track, and eventually taking those breaks simply becomes a habit.

Why follow the 20-20-20 rule?

Humans normally blink about 15 times per minute, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. However, when using a computer or other digital screens, we may only blink about one-third as often, which can lead to eye strain.

Digital eye strain caused by extensive screen use may be connected to certain vision problems, and can cause unpleasant symptoms like dry eyes, headache, light sensitivity, and eye fatigue. So in addition to potentially helping with long-term eye health issues, the 20-20-20 rule can also be an easy way to help limit some of the most common symptoms that come with extensive digital screen time.

If you have any questions about the 20-20-20 rule, how it works, or how it applies to you, speak with your eye health care provider to learn more. If you don’t have an eye doctor, use our doctor search to find a TLC Affiliate Eye Doctor near you. It’s a small step to take, and it may make a big difference.

Am I Too Old for LASIK?

One of the most common questions about LASIK eye surgery is whether the procedure can be considered for older people, and the good news is that the key points of LASIK candidacy are the same for seniors as they are for anyone else. If you have a stable vision prescription, healthy eyes, and are in good overall health, then you may be a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery. However, it is true that our eyes and visual needs change quite a bit throughout our lives, so there are a few special considerations to deliberate when thinking about laser eye surgery later in life.

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Why There’s No Upper Age Limit on LASIK

The only real age limit for a LASIK procedure, per the FDA, is that each surgical candidate should be at least 18 years of age. Our eyes and corresponding prescription requirements may change frequently at that age, and it’s important to wait until that tendency to change stabilizes before having laser eye surgery. There are a few other developmental milestones in life that often motivate people to consider laser eye surgery, beginning in early adulthood.

  • The most common range for LASIK patients is between 20 and 45 years old. Vision prescriptions often stabilize in the mid-twenties, so this is a natural time for people to consider LASIK eye surgery.
  • Next up is the 45 to 55-year age range, the time when many people begin to feel the early effects of presbyopia, which is related to the natural aging process and causes difficulty with near vision. While LASIK may be a treatment option for some presbyopia patients, we certainly have more vision correction technologies to offer our presbyopic patients, such as Monovision.
  • Beyond age 55, cataracts may start to develop even though they may not affect your vision at early stages. When cataract is determined to be the main reason for changes in your vision, cataract extraction surgery becomes the preferred method of treatment to improve your vision instead of LASIK eye surgery.

The basics for LASIK candidacy include a stable vision prescription for at least one year, no eye diseases, and good overall health. If you’ve got those things, then you’re off to an excellent start.

It’s important to note that good overall health doesn’t have to mean perfect health. Not every potential health issue for seniors impacts the eyes, and speaking with a LASIK specialist is the best way to learn how laser eye surgery fits in with various health needs.

Regardless of your age, are you curious whether LASIK eye surgery is the right fit for your vision health needs? The easiest way to find out is to schedule a free consultation with TLC LASIK specialist, where you can determine if you’re a candidate and learn more about what laser eye surgery can do for you.

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