Laser Eye Surgery

All laser eye surgeries reshape the cornea to provide a more accurate pathway for light to enter the eye. In cases of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism the shape of the eye is twisted slightly causing permanent vision changes.

There are several choices to examine when deciding to undertake laser eye surgery. Starting with Photorefractive Keratotomy (PRK), a method that is used to correct mild eye conditions, we can simply examine each one. PRK uses cool pulsing ultraviolet light on the surface of the cornea. While the final results take longer to become known, PRK is highly accurate at one year when 80% of patients have 20/20 vision without glasses, and 95%-98% have 20/40 or better without glasses. Potential side effects are the same as with LASIK, such as loss of crisp vision, glare and haloes.

Next is LTK (Laser Thermokeratoplasty), a treatment for farsightedness and astigmatism. In this method heat is used to reshape the cornea, correcting the vision in a matter of seconds. No cutting or tissue removal occurs. Pain or discomfort is rarely experienced with this laser eye surgery method however the change brought about is not permanent. LTK can intentionally over correct the correction to extend the length of time it will be effective. At any rate, most patients see a 50% return to the former condition within 2 years. LTK is typically used on those patients over 40 years of age.

LASIK (Laser-assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) has become the most popular method used in the last decade to correct refractive errors of the eye, including nearsightedness, astigmatism and farsightedness. This method of laser eye surgery creates a small flap in the clear tissue at the front of the eye. The flap is folded back and the cornea is reshaped using a laser. The flap is put back in position without the need of stitches as it sticks on its own. The changes brought about by LASIK surgery are permanent. Most people find very little eye irritation with this method as the flap provides protection for the eye. Possible side effects include dry eye, decreased night vision including glare, halos, or starburst, and rarely infections. Results are noticed very quickly, from 2 days to 6 weeks.

An improvement on the LASIK treatment method is the Wavefront-Guided LASIK. In this case, a very detailed map of how light emerges from the eye is created. By carefully creating a map of the irregularities of the eye, the surgeon can guide the laser to custom treat the edges of the cornea differently than the center. This method helps to eliminate side effects such as blurring, glare, halos, and decreased night vision.

In all methods of laser eye surgery, the care taken prior to the procedure to photograph the eye and create a plan for corrections will be in direct relation to the results. Strictly following the treatment plan devised by the surgeon will optimize the chances for a positive outcome.