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Refractive Vision Correction

PRK

PRK or Photorefractive Keratectomy is one of the most time-tested laser vision correction procedures available. PRK is used mainly for patients with large pupils or thin corneas.

The first step in PRK is to remove the epithelium, a thin layer protecting the cornea. Then the surgeon uses an excimer laser to vaporize a small amount of tissue from the top of the cornea. PRK avoids the risks of flap complications that may occur with a LASIK procedure.

LASIK

LASIK improves vision by reshaping the cornea to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. With LASIK, a thin layer of the cornea is cut with the microkeratome blade and is lifted to create a flap. Next the excimer laser sculpts the cornea with the cool, ultraviolet light. The flap is returned to its original position for healing.

LASEK

LASEK, or Laser Assisted Subepithelial Keratomileusis, is a modification of the LASIK procedure for patients with thin or steep corneas. First, the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is cut with a much finer blade than the microkeratome used in LASIK. Next, the eye is bathed in a special alcohol solution that loosens the epithelium. The tissue is displaced so the central cornea may be exposed and treated with the excimer laser. After treatment, the tissue is allowed to heal and a clear contact lens may be worn to protect the eye for a few days to assist in recovery.

More of the cornea is exposed for treatment with LASEK than with LASIK, making LASEK a better choice for patients who require greater vision correction. It requires a longer recovery time.

Surface Ablation

Surface Ablation is a refractive surgery technique where the outermost layer of the cornea, the epithelium, is displaced using an alcohol solution and special instrument, allowing the laser to reshape the front surface of the cornea. A clear contact lens may be worn a few days to protect the eye and assist healing, and is removed by your eye doctor. Surface Ablation procedures includes PRK and LASEK.

Clear Lens Extraction

Clear lens extraction, also called refractive lens exchange, replaces the natural lens with a replacement lens, usually an advanced technology or a multifocal IOL in patients wishing to correct high farsightedness, high nearsightedness or presbyopia without undergoing a corneal modification procedure such as Laser Vision Correction. The procedure is the same as that used in cataract surgery; the difference is that CLE is performed to achieve refractive correction rather than cataract removal. CLE may offer clearer vision and greater focusing power.

You may be a candidate for clear lens extraction if you:

  • Want to reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contacts
  • Are over 50 years old
  • Have high myopia (nearsightedness), high hyperopia (farsightedness), or presbyopia, with or without cataract
  • Have early symptoms of cataracts

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