Laser Vision Correction Update

 

Besides traditional contact lenses and glasses to correct vision for farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism, there are many other surgical treatments available. Laser procedures called PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and LASIK (Laser Assisted Stromal In-Situ Keratomileusis) are the two most commonly used and FDA approved techniques. Other alternative surgical treatments are RK (Radial Keratotomy), CRI (Corneal Relaxing Incisions), AK (Astigmatic Keratotomy), ALK (Automated Lamellar Keratoplasty), ICL (Intraocular Contact Lens), LTK (Laser Thermokaratoplasty), Refractive Lensectomy or clear lens extraction, which is similar to a cataract removal procedure. We do not think it is important for us to go into details of all alternative surgical treatments. We will do comparison between LASIK and PRK and which procedure will best serve you. You may not be a candidate for these procedures if you have a history of vascular disease, glaucoma with optic nerve damage, corneal disease, a history of retinal detachment, or prior retinal laser treatment. You need to discuss these issues with your doctor. Approximate classification for near sightedness: Low 0 to 3.99 diopters Moderate 4 to 6.99 diopters High 7 to 14.99 diopters Extreme 15 + diopters

The FDA approved LASIK for the treatment of naturally occurring hyperopia between +1.00 to +4.00 diopters and a low amount of astigmatism.

PRK	LASIK
PRK uses the laser on the surface of the corneal stroma. Requires wearing contact lenses from two to four days for the surface epithelium to grow. More post-operating pain. May take from 3 to 12 months for maximum visual stability. Removal of Bowman's Membrane may increase the haziness. Longer use of steroids. Surgery performed one eye at a time. Satisfactory results for low to moderate range of myopia. Results do not depend on a surgeon's skills	LASIK uses the Microkeratome to create a flap before using the laser to remove corneal stroma beneath the surface. Takes 4 to 8 hours for the flap to heal. Little to no post-operating pain. No corneal epithelium healing required; gives rapid stable vision. The Bowman's Membrane is intact. Short term steroid use reduces steroid-induced glaucoma or cataract. Surgery can be done on both eyes at the same time. Good for moderate to high nearsightedness. Results do depend on a surgeon's skills
If you are interested, please call us for a free consultation to learn more about these procedures and to make sure you are making the right decision.

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