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Laser vision correction is a procedure to reshape the front surface of your cornea to improve the natural focus of the eye.

There are two common procedures done to achieve this outcome, Lasik (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) and PRK (photorefractive keratectomy). Both of these procedures are done in a laser suite within our office. Mild sedatives are available if you are nervous or anxious on the day of your surgery.

Lasik is a procedure where your surgeon numbs the eye with drops and creates a thin flap of tissue on your cornea using a laser. The flap is lifted and a second laser (excimer) is utilized to ablate or reshape the inner layers of the cornea. The cornea flap is placed back into position where it will heal.

During PRK, the surgeon will numb the eye with drops and then remove the surface layer (epithelium) of your cornea. The same excimer laser will be used to reshape the cornea to correct your vision. A bandage contact lens will be placed on the eye which will remain in place until the surface tissue heals and will then be removed by your doctor.

Both procedures offer similar long-term refractive outcomes. Lasik is preferred by most patients due to the shorter healing time and minimal discomfort.

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR LASER VISION CORRECTION:

  1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
  2. Stable correction: Patients must have a stable eyeglass/contact lens prescription for at least 1 year.
  3. General Medical: Patients must be in generally good health. You should not have uncontrolled diabetes, active autoimmune or collagen vascular disease (such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, colitis, etc.)
  4. Medications: Patients should not be currently taking Accutane (isotretinoin) or Cordarone (amiodarone).
  5. Eye health: Patients should not have a history of cataracts, infections with scarring, keratoconus (or family history), or other hereditary corneal dystrophies, Herpes Zoster or Herpes Simplex (of the eye).
  6. Dry Eyes: Patients should not be suffering from chronic dry eyes prior to surgery.

The comprehensive evaluation will be the final determining factor in you proceeding with laser vision correction. Our doctors, along with those of our referral location, will discuss your specific measurements and determine what procedure, if any, would be best for you. This will take into account the measurement of your eyes, your age, your hobbies, and work.

If your doctor determines you are not a good candidate for laser vision correction, you may be eligible for another refractive procedure such as ICL or refractive lens exchange, which will also be discussed at your comprehensive examination and consultation.