Laser Eye Surgery FAQ How does excimer laser surgery correct vision?
Short pulses of invisible ultraviolet light remove a small amount of tissue from the cornea to correct the curvature. The amount removed is typically less than the thickness of a human hair. By correcting the curvature of the cornea, images are better focused on the retina and the images are clearer.
What is LASIK?
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a refractive procedure in which a surgical instrument called a microkeratome is used to create a thin-hinged flap of corneal tissue. The corneal flap is then lifted, and the excimer laser is used to re-shape the remaining cornea to produce the desired correction. The flap is then re-positioned on the corneal surface over the treated area.
What is PRK?
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a surface refractive procedure in which the epithelium (surface layer of the cornea) is removed using the excimer laser, rotary brush or with the aid of 20% alcohol. The excimer laser is then used to re-shape the cornea to produce the desired correction. At the completion a contact lens or an eye patch is applied.
What is LASEK?
LASEK (laser epithelial keratomileusis) is a surface refractive procedure in which the epithelium (surface layer of the cornea) is moved aside with the aid of 20% alcohol. The excimer laser is then used to re-shape the cornea to produce the desired correction. The epithelium is then re-positioned on the corneal surface over the treated area and a contact lens is applied.
What is Epi-LASIK?
Epi-LASIK is a surface refractive procedure that uses an extremely fine and precise instrument called a microkeratome to mechanically separate an epithelial flap from the surface of the cornea, and then the Excimer laser is used to correct the prescription. No alcohol is used with this surgical technique. The hinged flap is replaced following the excimer laser surgery, as with LASEK.
What are the advantages of having the LASIK procedure performed instead of PRK, LASEK or Epi-LASIK?
The reported advantages are reduced post-operative discomfort in the first 24 hours, a faster return of vision in the first few days, and less chance of corneal haze.
What are the disadvantages of having the LASIK procedure performed instead of PRK, LASEK or Epi-LASIK?
The disadvantages of the LASIK procedure are the numerous complications related to the creation of the corneal flap. Research indicates an increased number of retreatments are necessary when the LASIK procedure is used. There is a reportedly lower predictability and safety factor in using the LASIK procedure for patients with up to twelve diopters of myopia. http://www.eyeinstitute.net/Laser_Surgery.html
