Take Control of Your Vision
Refractive surgery is an excellent option to achieve crisp, clear vision without glasses or contacts. High-powered, precise lasers are used to reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus clearly on the retina.
Refractive surgery can be used to correct common refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Surgical procedures are relatively quick, with minimal healing time and discomfort.
Laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is the most common refractive surgery. An excimer laser is used to create a flap in the epithelium (outer layer of the cornea) and lifted to expose the cornea underneath. The laser is then used to reshape the cornea, and the flap is replaced. The flap acts as a natural bandage to protect the eyes as they heal.
After the procedure, your vision will likely be blurry, so you will need a ride home. Your eyes will most likely feel gritty and overly watery for a few days following surgery.
Your vision will likely fluctuate for around 6 months following the procedure, but you should be able to return to work in about a week.
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a type of laser surgery that can also correct refractive errors. PRK is a suitable procedure for most mild to moderate vision problems.
PRK differs from LASIK in that the top layer of the cornea is removed entirely. The inner layers of the cornea is reshaped, and a contact lens is placed on top, acting as a bandage.
Healing time is longer than LASIK for PRK due to the epithelium being removed. Recovery may take up to 3 months, with some patients experiencing mild discomfort in the days immediately after the procedure.
If you are interested in laser eye surgery, we would be happy to examine your eyes to ensure you are a good candidate and determine which type of surgery is best suited to your needs. Qualifications for laser eye surgery generally include:
- Being 18 years of age or older
- Having stable vision for at least a year
- No active eye conditions or diseases
- Not pregnant or nursing
If you have any questions, we are here to answer them. Please contact us!
