Vision Correction Surgery
Vision correction surgery, also called refractive and laser eye surgery, refers to any surgical procedure used to fix vision problems. Recent years have seen huge advances in this field. Refractive and laser eye surgery allow many patients to see better than any other time in their lives.
Laser Precision for Clearer Vision.
Each of these vision correction options offers a unique path to better sight, with your doctor helping determine the best fit for your needs.
A Clearer Vision for a Brighter Future.
Vision correction surgery, also called refractive and laser eye surgery, refers to any surgical procedure used to fix vision problems. Recent years have seen huge advances in this field. Refractive and laser eye surgery allow many patients to see better than any other time in their lives.
LASIK (Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis)
Ideal for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, LASIK reshapes the tissue beneath your cornea to improve focus. A unique flap is created in the cornea’s outer layer to access the tissue. Often, wavefront imaging is used for precise guidance.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
PRK corrects mild to moderate vision issues by reshaping only the surface of the cornea, unlike LASIK. Like LASIK, it may involve advanced computer imaging to tailor the procedure.
LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis)
Similar to PRK, LASEK involves creating a flap using an alcohol solution, reshaping the cornea with a laser, and securing it with a soft contact lens during healing.
RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange)
Also known as PRELEX or clear lens exchange, RLE is often used for severe nearsightedness or farsightedness. The procedure involves replacing your natural lens with a silicone or plastic lens, with an option to correct astigmatism when combined with LASIK.
Epi-LASEK & Epi-LASIK
In these procedures, a thin corneal layer is separated and reshaped with a laser. A soft contact lens secures the area for healing.
Intacs (Intracorneal Ring Segments)
Used to treat keratoconus, Intacs flatten the cornea by inserting two small plastic rings, improving focus and vision quality.
Phakic Intraocular Lens Implants
For those with extreme nearsightedness, this procedure adds a lens in front of your natural one, either attached to the iris or behind the pupil.
AK/LRI (Astigmatic Keratotomy)
Though not a laser procedure, AK or LRI helps reshape astigmatic corneas through small incisions, either as a standalone or with other laser procedures.
RK (Radial Keratotomy)
Once common for nearsightedness, RK has largely been replaced by LASIK and PRK for better results.
Clarity at the Speed of Light.
Most types of vision correction surgery reshape your cornea, the clear front part of your eye. That lets light travel through it and focus properly on the back of your eye, or retina. Other procedures replace your eye’s natural lens. Types of surgery include:
Are These Surgeries Safe and Effective?
Laser eye surgeries have proven to be highly effective, offering many patients sharper, clearer vision. However, like all surgical procedures, they come with some possible side effects to be aware of:
Infection & Healing Delays:
In rare cases, infections can occur after PRK or LASIK, leading to longer healing times and added discomfort.
Regression:
In some cases, the initial improvements may fade slightly over time, and a second procedure might be needed to regain clarity.
Undercorrection or Overcorrection:
After surgery, your vision may still need fine-tuning. If needed, a follow-up procedure, called laser enhancement, can adjust your results.
Dim Light Halos:
Some patients see halos or "double vision" in low light, which advanced techniques like wavefront imaging can help reduce.
Occasional Vision Haze:
Corneal haze is a natural, generally unnoticeable healing effect, more common in PRK than LASIK, with treatments available to reduce risk.
Flap Issues:
LASIK involves creating a flap on the cornea, which might need adjusting within the first few days or after a significant impact to the eye.
