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What is LASIK?

LASIK is similar to PRK, however the laser procedure is done under the surface of the cornea rather than on the surface. An instrument called a micokeratome is used to elevate the front third of the cornea allowing the laser to be done underneath the surface. The front "flap" is then gently laid back down and attaches spontaneously. LASIK is our preferred method of vision correction because it allows for rapid return of vision with little discomfort and time off work. It has also allowed the patient to have both eyes done on the same day for added convenience.

Are all the lasers the same?

The excimer laser is a unique and incredibly precise high tech "cold laser" that was developed in the 1980's and is now used to gently reshape the surface of the cornea in order to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. The laser passed ardous clinic trials in the late 1980's and 1990's before gaining final approval in this country in 1995. Today's laser vision correction procedures are done with this instrument and since the laser is fully computer controlled it provides a greater degree of accuracy than surgeons have ever had in the past. This translates to an unprecedented level of success for our patients. We currently use the VISX Star/S4 and Alcon Ladarvision excimer lasers.

What is farsightedness?

Farsightedness or hyperopia is the opposite of myopia. The eyeball is either too short or the focusing power of the lens or the cornea is too weak not allowing light to focus sharply enough. As a consequence, the retina receives a blurred image. In the normal situation the cornea is spherical or round, similar to a basketball. Farsightedness can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses or refractive surgery.

What is nearsightedness?

Nearsightedness is also known as myopia and describes the condition where the eye focuses light too sharply either due to the length of the eyeball or the focusing power of the cornea or lens. As a consequence the retina received a blurred image. Nearsightedness can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses or refractive surgery

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is the term to describe how oval the cornea is. This "football shape" causes light to be streaked into a smeared or double image. Astigmatism can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses or refractive surgery.

What is photorefractive keratectomy?

PRK is a procedure that uses the excimer laser to gently sculpt the surface of the cornea into a new shape in order to correct either myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism. Results with PRK have been excellent and we now have data extending back nearly 12 years.

What is refractive surgery?

Refractive surgery is surgery that changes the way that light is focused by the eye. This can be done either manually or with a new laser vision correction technique such as PRK or LASIK. Refractive surgery's goal is to decrease one's dependency on glasses or contacts and in many cases to eliminate the need altogether.