LASIK Laser Vision Correction...
LASIK is an acronym that stands for Laser Assisted In-situ Keratomileusis and is one of the most advanced ways to permanently correct refractive errors (glasses prescriptions). LASIK surgery is performed by creating a hinged flap of tissue approximately 1/5 of the thickness of the entire cornea. This flap is gently lifted and the excimer laser is used to change the curvature of the remaining cornea to correct your prescription. Once this is completed, the flap is replaced--back into its original position. LASIK has become the most frequently performed refractive surgical procedure performed today. Its wide acceptance can be attributed to the minimal discomfort that patients experience with this procedure and the rapid visual recovery that they enjoy post-operatively. LASIK surgery can be performed using a conventional treatment approach or a Custom treatment approach.
Conventional LASIK uses treatment data based on your eyeglasses prescription--which is an average of the many different ways that your eyes focus light incorrectly. This approach has a good chance of fully correcting your prescription with one surgery.
Benefits of Custom LASIK The LASIK Procedure
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LASIK Flap Creation Methods
Intralase®--A laser device which uses light energy to very precisely create the LASIK flap.
Microkeratome--A mechanical device which uses a rapidly oscillating blade to cut a thin corneal flap.
Advantages to Intralase® LASIK Flap Creation
- Safer, more predictable flap creation--less chance of complication in creation of flap i.e. buttonholes, incomplete flaps, free flaps.
- Potentially more secure flap post-operatively--less susceptible to problems postoperatively*
*Only LASIK with Intralase is permitted on US Air Force pilots, US Navy aviators, as well as NASA astronauts.
LASIK Candidates:
- Individuals who believe that their lifestyle would be enhanced or improved by reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
- People with myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.
- Are at least 18 years of age.
- Have had a stable glasses or contact lens prescriptions for at least 12 months.
- Have healthy corneas.
Poor Candidates:
- Patients younger than 18 years old
- Patients with advancing cataracts
- Have had an unstable glasses or contact lens prescription over the last 12 months - If your eyesight continues to change, speak to your doctor.
- Women who are pregnant
- Uncontrolled diabetic patients
- Have unhealthy cornea
LASIK and Presbyopia
Presbyopia is the loss of focusing or loss of flexibility of the eye’s lens to focus on near objects. Presbyopia occurs to every person over the age of 40. The condition may not be noticeable until mid or late 40’s. Ways to help with presbyopia after LASIK are:
- Simple reading glasses
- Monovision--one eye corrected for distance, one corrected for near. This has been used effectively in contact lens wearers for many years.
- Corneal Inlays--coming soon--currently undergoing FDA trials. These devices will be placed beneath the LASIK flap and will allow both good distance and near vision when placed after a LASIK procedure.
Realistic Expectations about LASIK
Ultimately, you make the decision about your vision correction. The realistic goal of LASIK is reduced dependence on glasses and contact lenses in the many and varied activities of your life. To achieve your best level of vision and function without glasses or contact lenses, it is very important that your thoroughly discuss you vision goals with the refractive surgery staff.
