Eye Health Management

Thinking about laser vision correction?
Frequently Asked Questions
About Laser Vision Correction

How do laser vision correcting procedures work?
Laser vision correction procedures encompasses a variety of options that actually modify the cornea or the front surface of the eye. The latest technology involves a quick, painless and very accurate laser.

What is PRK?
Photorefractive keratectomy, PRK, is surgery that uses a laser beam to sculpt a thin layer of the surface of the cornea to the individual's refractive needs. The surgeon reshapes the surface layer by scraping away the outer surface of the cornea and then reshapes it's underlying tissues with a cool ultraviolet beam. Depending upon the severity of a patient's nearsightedness, this process can remove anywhere from 5% to 30% of the tissue's thickness.

What is LASIK?
Laser-assisted intrastomal keratomileusis, LASIK, is the most popular procedure at this time. It is a quick and painless procedure involving a reshaping of the eye's inner corneal layer with laser technology. The surgeon uses an instrument called a microkeratome to create what is known as a corneal flap. Once this flap has been created and folded back, a laser is then used to reshape the cornea and improve the patient's vision of distance. With the reshaping completed, the flap is returned and a natural process of healing begins.

Who is a good candidate for vision correcting procedures?
Vision correcting procedures cannot be performed before puberty. This is because the lens does not attain its final shape and stabilize itself until the approximately ages of 18-21. Refractive surgery should not be performed until the eye is stable. In most cases, anyone between 18 and 70 can generally have vision correction procedures done in order to treat both nearsightedness and an astigmatism.

To determine if you are a good candidate you should start by scheduling an exam with your primary eye care doctor. Only a comprehensive consultation with your doctor can accurately determine if you are eligible for a vision correcting procedure. The ideal candidate is at least 18 years of age, has not had a significant prescription change in the last year and free from ocular diseases such as cataracts or glaucoma.

Can my vision be perfect with laser vision correction?
Your level of success with LVC depends upon individual vision conditions, the expertise of the laser surgeon, and the type of follow-up care program. Each individual is a little different, and so are their corrective needs.

Assuming you are the right type of patient for this procedure, the results of this technology are very good. Most patients will have 20/40 vision or better without glasses or contact lenses. Refractive surgery is not a guarantee and some patients may still need corrective lenses to perform certain tasks. Removal of the cataract and intraocular implants can be used to correct for distance vision when cataracts are present. Laser vision correction could be used to correct refractive error following cataract removal if necessary.

Can vision correcting procedures be used for treating cataracts?
Laser vision correcting procedures such as LASIK cannot treat cataracts. Typically patients with cataracts suffer from continually worsening vision. Therefore, the real refractive power of the eye cannot be determined, making it inadvisable for them to undergo laser vision correction. Removal of the cataract and intraocular implants can be used to correct for distance vision when cataracts are present. Laser vision correction could be used to correct refractive error following cataract removal if necessary.