Laser vision correction is
a procedure that improves vision by permanently changing the shape of
the cornea (the clear covering of the front of the eye) with a laser.
Often referred to as LASIK, it is the most commonly performed type of
laser procedure and an effective treatment for a wide range of vision
problems.
There are two variables that can be altered to achieve clear vision: changing
the light as it enters the eye, and altering the front curve of the eye.
For centuries directing light rays with lenses has obtained clear vision.
Glass or plastic lenses bend light the exact amount required to change
the focal point to match the length of the eye, producing clear vision.
Later, contact lenses were used to achieve the same result.
Researchers have been trying for decades to come up with a more permanent
solution to create clear vision. Early research led to the development
of several surgical procedures such as Radial Keratotomy (RK). Those procedures
offered some improvements, but were limited in the degree of correction
possible. With the advent of the excimer laser, more precise vision correction
procedures such as Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK), Laser in Situ Keratomileusis
(LASIK) and Laser Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy (LASeK) were developed.
Earlier Procedures
Radial Keratotomy (RK)
 Myopia—mild
to moderate Astigmatism—with or without myopia An ophthalmologist
makes small incisions on the surface of the cornea. These incisions reshape
the cornea to allow light to refract in the correct location. Correct
refraction makes the vision clearer. This surgery is performed on both
eyes at the same time.
Current Procedures
LASIK (Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis)
The surgeon first instills an anesthetic drop, and then creates a corneal flap on the very top of the cornea with a device called a microkeratome or the new IntraLaseÒ All Laser bladeless procedure. This flap is created to allow the laser to reshape the cornea in the layers underneath. Once the laser treatment has been completed, the flap is placed back in position to protect the newly reshaped cornea. The average LASIK procedure takes approximately 6 to 10 minutes per eye.
Advanced CustomVue iLASIK
The Advanced CustomVue procedure is an individualized laser vision correction treatment that utilizes the same technique as LASIK surgery; however, it is coupled with WaveScan/Wavefront Fournier/Hartman-Shack guided technology. No other laser offers this true Wavefront High Definition system that is why NASA and the US Navy have approved only the iLASIK technology for their members. This current WaveScan technology was originally developed for use in high-powered telescopes to reduce distortions when viewing distant objects in space. This technology has now been applied to laser vision correction, measuring the visual imperfections in an individual’s eyes that could never be measured before with standard methods used for glasses and contact lenses using the non-invasive WaveScan device. The WaveScan images then produce a WavePrint map. The individual’s customized measurements obtained by the WaveScan will be transferred to the laser to guide the treatment. The doctor then uses that information to fine-tune the procedure thereby providing a new level of precision and accuracy called Personal Best Vision. For additional information, please visit www.personalbestvision.com.
The marriage of the Advanced CustomVue technology with the new Intralase All Laser used to create the flap eliminates the microkeratome, or blade, used in the past. The iLASIK or Intelligent Laser Procedure virtually eliminates all the complications associated with the blade technique, which represents a majority of LASIK complications. iLASIK is Safer, more precise, 100 times more accurate than a blade and leads to potentially far better vision than previous technologies. iLASIK greatly reduces re-treatments, dry eye, postoperative astigmatism and imperfections in your vision as reported in peer to peer scientific studies.
LASeK (Laser Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy)
During LASeK, the surgeon does not utilize the microkeratome to make a
corneal flap. In addition to using the anesthetic drops, a diluted alcohol
solution is placed topically to loosen the outermost layer of the cornea
known as the epithelium. The epithelium is then rolled back to expose
the layers underneath. Treatment is completed with the laser, and then
the epithelium is repositioned with a small instrument. A bandage contact
lens is placed on the eye to aid in the healing of the cornea. You will
be seen by Dr. Larson on day 5 to have that contact lens removed. LASeK
preserves approximately 160 microns more corneal tissue, on average, than
a typical LASIK procedure. Therefore, for patients who have thin corneas,
LASeK may be a better alternative.
Photo-Refractive Keratectomy (PRK)
Myopia—moderate to high Hyperopia Using a special instrument, the
ophthalmologist scrapes away the  top
superficial layers of the cornea called the epithelium. Then a computer
driven excimer laser removes a pre-determined quantity of tissue causing
the shape of the cornea to flatten. This sculpting of the cornea redirects
the rays of light to refract on the correct area of the eye.
This procedure is most commonly used for individuals who have certain
restrictions for laser vision correction, such as those who are active
in the military.
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