Laser Vision Correction is a form of refractive surgery, an area of Ophthalmology which has evolved over the last three decades. It relates to the treatment of refractive errors. These include nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. In the past, these conditions could only be treated with mechanical devices such as eyeglasses and contact lenses. This solution is not ideal for all people. Many people do not want to rely on a device in order to see well. Others have an intolerance to contact lenses or find that eyeglasses and contact lenses can interfere with their appearance, lifestyle, or quality of vision. These issues led to the development of refractive surgery as a specialty within ophthalmology.
The goal of all refractive procedures is to alter the shape or curvature of the cornea, the clear membrane that forms the front surface of the eye. The cornea is the main focusing lens of the eye. By altering its shape we can eliminate or reduce refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
In the mid-1980’s the development of the Excimer Laser was a major breakthrough in this field. It was proven to be a safe and reliable technique for the treatment of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. In 1996 the FDA granted approval for PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) using the Excimer laser. Since that time, a new technique has been developed which provides a more accurate, comfortable and quicker healing form of laser vision correction. This newer technique is called LASIK (laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis). Both procedures use light energy (the excimer laser) to reshape the cornea so that images are properly focused on the back of the eye (retina).
In PRK,
laser treatment is performed directly on the outer surface of the cornea. The surface
tissue must heal over and then become smooth before an improvement in vision is realized.
During the early phase of this healing process the eye may be uncomfortable, as though it
had been scratched. The duration of this phase is an average of three days. Over the
following several weeks the surface becomes smooth and the vision becomes increasingly
clear. After PRK, eye drops are required for approximately three months to promote healing
and prevent infection and scarring.
The increasing popularity of the newer technique, LASIK, can be attributed to the fact that this procedure provides much more rapid visual recovery. Good vision is usually achieved within 24 hours and continues to improve during the following couple of days. In LASIK, the excimer laser treatment is done under a protective flap. The outer surface of the cornea is not disrupted. The protective flap is responsible for the comfort and rapid healing that is the hallmark of LASIK. Most patients experience only mild scratchiness for a few hours after the procedure and eye drops are prescribed for only 5 to 7 days.
The protective flap is
raised................
The laser light is applied
to the cornea.........
The flap is replaced.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is Laser Vision Correction right for me?
The first part of the answer to this question relates to your actual refractive error. In other words, what is your eyeglass or contact lens prescription? Most people are candidates for laser vision correction as we are able to treat even high degrees of nearsightedness and up to 4 diopters of astigmatism, a fairly high degree of astigmatism. We are also able to treat moderate amounts of farsightedness. Once we know your prescription, can be determine if you are a candidate. We then perform a complete ophthalmic examination and medical history to ensure that there are no ophthalmic or medical conditions that could adversely affect the treatment.
It is of utmost importance to us that you achieve your goals. When you meet with us, we will discuss both what you are hoping to achieve and what we can provide.
Which procedure is best for me?
LASIK has become increasingly the treatment of choice in most practices and communities, including ours. This relates largely to the reasons stated above, as both procedures have been found to provide excellent results. Of course, a decision regarding which procedure is best for any particular individual requires careful evaluation and examination, as certain factors may make one the better choice over the other. This decision is made in consultation with one of our doctors.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedures take approximately 10 minutes. Actual laser time depends on your correction and may vary from about 15 to 60 seconds. We ask you to arrive at the Laser Center approximately one hour prior to their procedure. If you choose, a mild sedative can be given at that time. After the procedure you are asked to relax in the lounge for 10 to 30 minutes. The doctor will then check your eye before you leave. The total amount of time spent at the Laser Center is 60 to 90 minutes.
Is there any pain?
Most patients have very little, if any, discomfort during a refractive procedure. It is not unusual to feel pressure around the eye. However, most patients do not feel any pain during the procedure.
After LASIK (treatment under a flap) patients rarely have discomfort. Most patients describe a mild foreign body sensation "like an eyelash in the eye" which lasts for several hours.
After the PRK (surface treatment) patients may experience a foreign body sensation, sensitivity to bright light, tearing and a "scratchy" sensation in the eye. This gradually disappears after three to four days.
What results can I expect?
In general, approximately 96 percent of patients will achieve 20/40 vision or better after laser vision correction. The most important factor in predicting the outcome is your amount of refractive error. Of course, we will discuss this issue with you when you consult with one of our doctors.
When can I go back to work?
After LASIK, most patients can go back to work the next day. Individuals who have PRK will require a slightly longer recovery, as much as three or four days. In either case, we do ask you to come to the office the morning after your procedure for a check-up.
Which laser do we use?
We use the state-of-the-art VISX STAR 20/20 Excimer Laser at Catholic Medical Center’s Laser Center.
What is the next step if I am interested in Laser Vision Correction?
At the Bellows, Goodman, and Shaker Medical Eye Center we offer a free screening to determine if you are a candidate. Before a decision is made, however, a complete ophthalmic examination is necessary to carefully determine the amount and type of laser correction that is needed and to make certain that there are no eye or systemic disorders that may interfere with the results of your procedure. Another important part of this evaluation is the generation of a computerized map of the surface contour of your cornea (corneal topography). This helps us detect those patients who have an atypical curvature to their cornea and are, therefore, not good candidates for a refractive procedure.
If you would like to arrange a free screening or a comprehensive laser vision correction consultation, or if you simply have a few questions for our experienced staff, you can reach us at (603)668-2020.