With the high demand for laser eye surgery today, eye centers are popping up all over the nation.Some eye centers are able to meet the needs of patients requiring treatment for visual problems resulting from glaucoma, diabetes, cataracts, and other eye diseases, some eye centers have chosen to focus specifically on laser vision correction.The most common eye center is the LASIK eye center.
LASIK eye centers are equipped to quickly and efficiently treat a large volume of patients requesting vision correction to counter the effects of myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness), even when accompanied by astigmatism.LASIK centers usually offer other surgeries similar to LASIK, including PRK and LASEK.
LASIK stands for laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis and is the most commonly performed refractive surgery.There are a few differences between LASIK, custom LASIK, and bladeless LASIK.
In LASIK and custom LASIK, a circular incision is made in the eye’s cornea that creates a flap.The surgeon then folds this flap back and uses an excimer laser to remove tiny pieces of corneal tissue in order to reshape the eye into a more normal shape.When the cornea is shaped properly it is better able to focus rays of light properly, resulting in vision improvement for those who suffer from myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
Bladeless LASIK achieves the same end result, but the surgeon does not make the circular incision.Rather a laser such as the IntraLase laser can be used to make the incision, resulting in a more precise incision.The IntraLase laser helps prevent the corneal flap from being cut too thick or too thin and ensures that it is the proper diameter for the surgery at hand.
Before LASIK was available, PRK was the most common refractive surgery available.PRK stands for photorefractive keratectomy and has been performed since 1986.During PRK surgery, no incision is made and no flap is created.Instead, a computer creates a detailed map of the surface of the eye is made prior to surgery.The surgeon then uses this map to calibrate the excimer laser to the proper prescription.This makes it a better option for some patients who have thin corneas, large pupils, or dry eyes.
LASIK eye centers are convenient because all of the pre-operative procedures, the surgery, and follow-up care can be taken care of in the same place.Also, the surgeons are usually part of the eye center staff rather than independent agents who come on board just for the surgery.
After selecting a LASIK eye center you will schedule a pre-op consultation or screening to determine if you meet the basic requirements for laser eye correction and, if you qualify, to decide which type of surgery is best for you.
A good candidate must meet several requirements, the first of which is the age requirement.Most surgical centers require patients to be eighteen years old, while others require patients to be twenty-one.Younger patients are only operated on in extenuating circumstance and under express recommendation from a qualified doctor.
Also, patients must be in good general health.People who take certain medications including steroids or who suffer from autoimmune diseases will not qualify for surgery because their immunocompromised systems may prevent them from healing properly.Good candidates should also be free from eye diseases, including cataracts, glaucoma, and certain retinal and optic nerve diseases.
Another requirement is that the patient’s vision has been stable for at least one year.Most people will notice their prescription stabilize while in their 20’s, which is one of the reasons why surgery isn’t a viable option for underage patients.Also, hormones associated with pregnancy and breastfeeding may cause changes in a woman’s vision, therefore laser eye surgery is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Once a patient’s candidacy has been verified other pre-operative tests will be performed on the eye to determine the level of correction that is needed and which surgical procedure will best serve the patient.The level of follow-up care that will be necessary will be discussed at this point as well since the different laser procedures often have different recovery times.
Most people are able to experience good vision within 24 hours of LASIK surgery though recovery time can be up to a week for those who undergo PRK or LASEK.If you have any questions at this point, be sure to ask your doctor so that you have a thorough understanding of what to expect during your recovery time before you undergo surgery.
All surgical procedures involve a level of risk.Sometimes laser eye surgery is not able to provide the degree of vision improvement desired, and there have been times when permanent vision loss has occurred.Be sure to discuss the risks and possible side effects involved with the surgical team at your LASIK eye center so that you can make a fully informed decision.