Laser Eye Surgery

When most people think of corrective laser eye surgery they immediately think of Lasik surgery – a popular procedure that is used to correct vision. But the truth is that corrective eye surgery is rather like an umbrella phrase under which all manner of corrective procedures fall. “Corrective laser eye surgery” means laser eye surgical techniques that will correct your vision. The advances in lasers, coupled with the creation of new and safer refractive surgical techniques in the past 10 years, have more people going to ophthalmologists than ever before to have their vision improved.

The difference between the various Excimer laser and Non-Excimer procedures are the type of laser that is used and the technique that is followed depending on what particular procedure is likely to bring you the most success based on the condition and shape of your eyes.

Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) recommended for nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism eye conditions.

Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis (LASEK) is similar to LASIK; except the flap is created in the epithelium.

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) for persons who have nearsightedness, mild to moderate farsightedness and astigmatism. The surgeon uses the laser to remove tiny tissue on the surface of the cornea.

CK or Conductive Keratoplasty uses a probe that’s as thin as a strand of human hair, utilizing radiofrequency (RF) energy. The probe reshapes the cornea by shrink small areas of the tissue.

These corrective laser eye surgery procedures improve ones quality of life. The following are agreed facts by the patients those have undergone different corrective surgeries.

• Ability to see upon waking.
• Freedom from glasses and contacts.
• Improvement in personal safety.
• Increased confidence in personal appearance.
• Better participation in sports or fitness activities.

While you are considering the benefits that you will get from corrective laser eye surgery, you may also want to consider the risks that are associated with this surgery. As with all surgeries, here are some risks that can cause long term damage to your eyes.

• Permanent loss of vision is a major risk that you will be taking when you have this procedure performed. When you have permanent loss of vision associated with laser eye surgery, this cannot be corrected by eye glasses or contact lenses.

• Another risk is the dry eye syndrome. You could possibly have dry eyes that cannot be cured, for the rest of your life. Dry eye syndrome is mostly scratchy and itchy, and just plain uncomfortable for most people. Your tear ducts may not work properly at their job of keeping your eye moist and lubricated.

• Sometimes when laser eye surgery is performed, the surgeon does not remove enough of the tissue from your eyes, causing you to still need contact lenses or eye glasses to see correctly.

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