Laser Vision Correction Surgery
MYOPIA
Myopia, or "nearsightedness" occurs when the eye is too long for the focusing system, and rays of light are focused in front of the retina. Glasses or contact lenses refocus light onto the retina.
ASTIGMATISM
Astigmatism is a condition where the front of the cornea is not uniformly curved; it is slightly oval in shape. As a result, the rays of light that enter the eye are bent unequally and cause distortion of the image. Most people have some degree of astigmatism.
VISX Excimer Laser: This exciting new alternative to glasses and contact lenses corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
LASIK: A brief outpatient procedure that can reduce your dependence on corrective lenses, possibly eliminating the need for them altogether.
The name "LASIK" is short for laser in-situ keratomileusis. Like Photorefractive Keratectomy, which also utilizes the Excimer Laser, LASIK reshapes the cornea with laser technology. The shape of the cornea is what determines whether you are nearsighted, farsighted, have astigmatism, or have normal vision. The Excimer Laser emits a "cool" laser light that can remove microscopic amounts of tissue with extreme precision. (use Lasik.jpg here)
The LASIK Procedure
With LASIK, you are awake for the procedure. You will be given eye drops to numb your eyes so that you will be comfortable throughout the procedure. A small instrument is then inserted to hold your eyelids open. Laser vision correction is best done on the underlying layer of your cornea. Therefore, the doctor uses an instrument called a "microkeratome" to lift a thin layer of the cornea to create a "flap" that stays connected on one side.
The Excimer Laser, which is programmed to specific settings based on the degree of vision correction you require, is then used to "sculpt" the cornea with a cool, ultraviolet light. The actual laser time is very brief, usually about 20-75 seconds.
Finally, the doctor returns the "flap" to its original position. The flap is allowed to seal back into position for several minutes. You are then given eyedrops, and a clear plastic eye shield is
taped in place to protect your eye while it heals. The entire procedure takes about 15- 20 minutes per eye.
Your vision may fluctuate for a few days. You may notice your vision to be significantly better almost immediately, but best vision may take several days or weeks to achieve. Generally, most patients return to work the next day.
To see if LASIK is right for you, you will need to have a thorough examination by your eye care professional. Your doctor will determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, answer your questions and provide you with additional details about the LASIK procedure.
What is Laser Vision Correction?
Laser Vision Correction uses the Visx Excimer Laser to reshape the front surface of the eye to allow images to focus on the retina. The laser emits pulses of cool ultraviolet light to remove microscopic amounts of tissue from the cornea.
How long does the procedure take?
The laser treatment itself takes approximately 60 seconds or less depending on the amount of correction you need. Expect to be at The Center For Surgery for about 1 hour for the entire procedure.
Will I be put to sleep?
No. You will receive several drops of topical anesthesia to numb the eye. In addition to the drops, you will also be given an oral medication to help you relax, should you so desire it.
Does it hurt?
The surgery itself is not painful. You may have a scratchy, sandy feeling, or it may feel like a dirty contact lens is in the eye for a day or two following surgery.
Will I need to wear glasses or contacts after the surgery?
94% of the patients achieved visual acuity of 20/40 or better without glasses. That is good enough to pass a drivers license exam without glasses. 58% of the time their vision was 20/20.
How long will I be out of work?
This depends on your type of occupation and your personal healing and comfort level. Most patients return to work within one to three days.
Are there any restrictions after the procedure?
The eye must be protected from injury and infection. For example, swimming and contact sports are best avoided for a few weeks
Does insurance cover Laser Vision Correction?
Most insurance companies consider this procedure elective and do not cover it. However, we encourage you to verify with your individual carrier.
How long has laser Vision Correction been around?
Laser Vision Correction, utilizing the excimer laser, has been approved for use in the United States since March of 1996, but has been performed around the world since 1988. Several million people have had Laser Vision Correction to correct their nearsightedness and farsightedness.