Websites using Visx

Okay, let s break down Visx (now part of Johnson & Johnson Vision) in terms of overview, revenue, alternatives, pricing, and customer care.

Overview of Visx

• What it is: Visx was a pioneering company in the field of laser vision correction, specifically known for its excimer laser technology used in LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and other refractive surgeries. They developed and manufactured the lasers and related technology.
• History: Founded in 1986, Visx quickly became a major player in the refractive surgery market. In 2004, Johnson & Johnson acquired Visx, integrating it into its vision care division, now known as Johnson & Johnson Vision.
• Current Status: The Visx name is still associated with the laser technology used in Johnson & Johnson Vision s refractive surgery platforms. You won t find Visx operating independently anymore, as it s fully integrated into J&J.
• Key Technology: Visx s excimer laser technology is designed to precisely reshape the cornea to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
• Focus: The focus remains on providing advanced laser technology for surgeons to perform vision correction procedures safely and effectively.

Revenue (As part of Johnson & Johnson Vision)

• No Specific Visx Revenue: Because Visx is now integrated into Johnson & Johnson Vision, specific revenue figures for Visx alone are not publicly reported.
• Johnson & Johnson Vision: J&J Vision is a significant part of Johnson & Johnson s overall revenue. The vision care segment includes surgical devices (like the Visx technology), contact lenses, and other related products.
• General Trend: J&J Vision is a large and profitable business unit for Johnson & Johnson, benefiting from the continued adoption of vision correction technologies. You can find Johnson & Johnson s financial reports on their investor relations website for the overall J&J Vision business numbers.

Alternatives to Visx/J&J Laser Technology

When considering alternative laser technologies for refractive surgery, keep in mind that these systems still perform similar functions of reshaping the cornea using excimer laser technology, they just come from different manufacturers. Here are some primary competitors:

• Alcon (Wavelight/Allegretto): Alcon is a major player with a suite of laser technologies for LASIK and other refractive procedures. Their systems are known for their speed and precision.
• Bausch + Lomb (Technolas/Zyoptix): Bausch + Lomb is another key competitor, offering lasers and related technologies used in refractive surgery. Their Zyoptix platform incorporates wavefront technology.
• Zeiss (MEL/Relex SMILE): Carl Zeiss Meditec is a global leader in ophthalmology technology, offering their MEL excimer lasers as well as the Relex SMILE procedure, which is a minimally invasive alternative to LASIK.
• Other Smaller Players: There are some smaller companies who may offer niche technologies for specialized refractive procedures, such as for treating keratoconus.

Important Note: Patients do not choose the technology directly. The surgeon makes a decision based on suitability for the patient’s eyes as well as their preferences and the technologies available in their clinic.

Pricing

• Not a Patient Cost: Pricing here refers to the cost of the actual equipment/systems for the surgical practice, not a price that a patient would be charged.
• High Cost for Equipment: Excimer laser systems from all companies, including Johnson & Johnson, are significant investments for eye surgery clinics and hospitals.
• Factors Affecting Price: The cost will depend on:
  • The specific model of the laser
  • Included features and technology upgrades
  • Service and maintenance contracts
  • Any additional surgical tools or software purchased with the system
• Pricing Structure: It would be difficult for an individual to obtain pricing on these systems as this is usually a closed process between the manufacturer and the clinic.

Patient Costs for LASIK

• Patient Pays for the Procedure: Patients pay for the LASIK procedure itself, not directly for the laser technology. This procedure cost includes:
  • Surgeon s Fees
  • Pre-operative examinations and consultations
  • Facility costs
  • Follow-up care
• Wide Range: LASIK costs vary significantly depending on:
  • Location
  • Surgeon s experience and reputation
  • Specific technology used at the clinic
  • Customization of the procedure (wavefront-guided)
  • Any needed enhancement procedures

Customer Care (J&J Vision)

• J&J Vision Support: Since Visx is part of Johnson & Johnson Vision, their customer care is managed by J&J.
• Surgeon/Clinic Support: J&J provides comprehensive support to eye surgeons, hospitals, and clinics using their laser systems. This includes:
  • Technical support for installation and maintenance
  • Training for surgeons and staff
  • Clinical support
  • Help with software and technology updates
  • Supply chain and delivery of materials
• No Direct Patient Support for Laser: J&J doesn t directly support individual patients seeking LASIK. They support the doctors and clinics that perform the procedures. Patient questions and care should be handled by the doctor or clinic where they receive treatment.
• Patient Contact: J&J does offer customer care in the contact lens arena and you can find out how to reach their customer service team through their website.

Key Takeaways

• Visx is no longer an independent company, it is part of Johnson & Johnson Vision.
• Visx is the name associated with the laser technology used in Johnson & Johnson Vision’s refractive surgery platforms.
• J&J Vision is a major player in the vision care market, with a strong presence in surgical technologies.
• The cost of laser systems is high for the clinic and the patient’s cost is for the surgical procedure, not for specific laser technology used.
• Customer service for the Visx equipment is provided by J&J Vision and they work directly with the eye clinics/hospitals rather than individual patients.

If you re considering LASIK or another refractive surgery, your best course of action is to consult with an eye surgeon who can evaluate your specific needs and explain the options available to you, including the technology they will use.