Laser Vision Correction
Are you looking to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses and contacts? Laser vision correction may be able to help you achieve your goals. LASIK and PRK are procedures preformed by ophthalmologists that specialize in laser vision correction. We are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding laser vision correction, as well as assess if you are a candidate for such a procedure.
What is LASIK?
Laser-Assisted-In-Situ Keratomileusis, also known as LASIK is a laser procedure used to correct myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism. During the LASIK procedure, a flap is created on the cornea to allow for reshaping of the inner tissue layers. The flap is then repositioned for healing. Patients may experience moderate discomfort in the hours following the procedure.
What is PRK?
Photorefractive Keratectomy, also known as PRK is a laser procedure, similar to LASIK but with PRK a flap does not need to be formed on the cornea. PRK also corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. PRK may be recommended in patient's with thinner corneas or for certain vocations in which a corneal flap may be contraindicated. After the procedure, a bandage contact lens will be placed on the eye to allow the surface to heal. PRK healing often takes longer than LASIK.
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Am I a candidate for laser vision correction?
Everyone's eyes are different, and laser correction may not be an option for everyone. At Pavletic Eye care we provide a free consultation to see if you are a candidate for LASIK or PRK. A comprehensive dilated exam is done to determine if your prescription is stable and your eyes are healthy. We explain the procedure thoroughly. If you are a candidate for laser vision correction and decide to proceed, we will refer you to a trusted and recommended ophthalmologist who specializes in laser vision correction. We will then work with your surgeon to provide post-operative care and monitor your eyes as they heal.
Candidates should meet the following criteria:
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Age: older than 18
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Eye health: absence of eye diseases such as keratoconus, glaucoma, cataracts, corneal or optic nerve diseases, or herpes simplex or herpes zoster. There should be no eye infection or injury.
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General health: patient's should be in good general health, not having uncontrolled diabetes, collagen vascular disorders, or taking medication that may result in a compromised immune system
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Stable glasses prescription: prescription should be stable for at least 1 year before procedure
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Dry eye: patients should not have chronic, symptomatic dry eye
Pregnancy/nursing: pregnancy and nursing can cause fluctuations in prescription. Patients should wait at least 3 months after the cessation of nursing too be considered for refractive surgery.
Contacts: you will be asked to stay out of your contact lenses for a certain length of time prior to the procedure to allow the cornea to go back to its natural shape and allow for the most accurate determination of your prescription. The length of time may be different for each patient depending on type and length of contact lens wear.
Corneal thickness: this is an important measurement in determining if laser vision correction can be done. There is a minimum corneal thickness that must be present to preform the procedure. This will be measured at your consult.
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Call our office today to schedule your consult!