LASIK

LASIK or Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis reshapes the cornea by removing tissue beneath the surface of the cornea.  LASIK combines the accuracy of the Excimer Laser with the benefits of Lamellar Keratoplasty (LK).

First, a device called a microkeratome lifts a thin layer of the cornea.  This instrument creates a precise layer by working very much like a carpenter's plane.  This layer, or flap, is then folded back.  Next, a cool beam of light gently reshapes the outer surface of the cornea.  The laser treatment typically takes less than one minute, and the flap is replaced in its original position.

LASIK is performed on an outpatient basis and takes only a few minutes. You will remain awake during the procedure and the only anesthetic you will need is eye drops.  Anticipate being in our office about one hour on the day of the procedure.  Most patients experience improved vision on the same day and are able to return to work the very next day.  You will take an antibiotic drop a few times a day for less than a week following your procedure.

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LASEK 

The newest of the refractive surgeries, LASEK, (laser epithelial keratomileusis),   is best described as a cross between PRK and LASIK. Here, the outer layer of the eye (the epithelial cells) is gently lifted and folded over using a mild alcohol solution to loosen the cells. After the laser is applied to reshape the cornea, the cell layer is repositioned and a soft contact lens is placed over the eye to help keep the cells in place while it heals (about 3 to 4 days).

Basically, LASEK'S main advantage is that no cut is made. The upside of this when compared to PRK is less post-operative discomfort, less risk of infection and a faster recovery. In comparison to LASIK, the elimination of flap repositioning problems and the risks associated with microkeratome use are comforting advantages. The only slight disadvantage compared with LASIK is the use of a soft contact lens for the first 3 to 4 days after surgery. Also with LASEK, the healing response and visual stability restoration period is a tad longer -- about 3 to 4 days versus LASIK's 1 to 2 days.

LASEK is best suited for:

• People who cannot have a cut flap, such as pilots, athletes, or those involved in other activities or occupations where the possibility of contact with the eye is probable. 
• Patients with higher myopic values, larger pupils and thinner corneas.

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PRK 

PRK which stands for Photo Refractive Keratectomy is a surgical procedure by laser for treating nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. The laser flattens the curve of the cornea by ablating (melting) a very thin layer of the outer surface.

The excimer laser technique was approved by the FDA in October 1995 after six years of intensive research. It is a concentrated beam of ultraviolet light that is precisely focused and calculated by computer.  The beam is so accurate that it is able to cut notches in a human hair.  Since the excimer laser does not generate heat, surrounding tissue is rarely affected.

Laser vision treatment is not appropriate for everyone.  You must be at least 21 years of age and your eyes must be otherwise healthy.  Your prescription for existing glasses or contact lenses must have not changed for a year.  It is also necessary to be more than moderately nearsighted (-1.5 to -7.0).

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