Refractive Vision Correction
Refractive Vision Correction and Laser Vision Correction (LVC) are terms used to describe surgical procedures that reshape the cornea. By making a subtle change in the shape of the cornea, light is able to focus correctly on the back of the eye, allowing clearer vision. LVC can treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, creating less or no dependency on eyeglasses or contact lenses.
The cornea is the clear tissue that covers the front of the eye, and the shape of the cornea helps determine how light is focused on the retina. With LVC, the surgeon removes microscopic layers of corneal tissue to reshape the cornea and to improve the focusing ability of the eye. The Indiana Eye Clinic surgeons (ophthalmologists) use the excimer laser — a cool, ultraviolet light that is programmed specifically to your exact prescription. Most patients require no corrective eyewear after surgery (although patients over 45 often need reading glasses).
Our pre-testing and Wavefront technology provide detailed mapping of the eye for viewing your refractive error and for creating your personal surgical plan.
There are several surgical techniques available to correct refractive or vision errors:
Finding out the health of your eyes and your refractive error is the first step towards refractive vision correction. Let us assist you in making an informed choice about refractive surgery by scheduling a complimentary surgical consultation. Please contact us now by email or phone.
Am I a Candidate?
Not everyone is a candidate for LVC. When you come in for a pre-planning surgical exam with the surgeon, your eyes will be thoroughly examined and measured to determine if you are a good candidate, which refractive treatment is appropriate for you, and whether you are at risk for any complications.
The Ideal LVC Candidate:
- Is at least 21 years old
- Has had stable vision for at least one year (two years preferred)
- Has a healthy cornea
- Has refractive error(s) that fall within the treatable range
- Does not have a disease or health condition that could impair the procedure or healing process
- Has been educated about the procedure including its risks and benefits
- Understands the goal of surgery is to improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses & contacts
Choosing a Surgeon
Choosing to undergo eye surgery is a serious decision with long-lasting consequences. It’s important to find an experienced surgeon equipped with the appropriate technology to ensure that you enjoy the best possible outcome.
Experience
Our board certified ophthalmologists (eye surgeons) have many years of experience in all aspects of eye care, from comprehensive eye exams to a broad range of ophthalmic and cosmetic surgery procedures — including laser vision correction.
Honesty
We don’t pressure our patients into undergoing a procedure that isn’t right for them. Every patient interested in LVC is given an initial consultation and an extensive exam/evaluation to determine whether LVC is right for him or her. During the evaluation, the patient and surgeon have an open discussion about the advantages and risks of having laser vision correction. Only then is the patient accepted as a pre-operative LVC candidate.
Caring
Each patient is important to us, and our commitment to you is to improve your life by taking care of one of your most important senses – your sight.
