The Dawning of A New Era

Refractive surgery is experiencing the dawning of a new era with the advent of the Excimer Laser. For many, Excimer Laser in-Situ Keratomileusis, or LASIK, could represent the first step towards less dependence on corrective lenses.

LASIK combines the precision of the excimer laser delivery system with the benefits of Lamellar Keratoplasly (LK) proven to treat a wide range of refractive errors. In the United States, LASIK is considered to be an "off-label" use of the excimer laser. This classification allows physicians to perform the procedure if they feel it is in the best interest of the patient. How successful is the procedure? The vast majority of people who undergo LASIK are able to pass a drivers' license test
without their glasses or contacts. Since LASIK can be used to treat very high levels of refractive error, it is sometime necessary to fine tune the initial procedure with additional refractive procedures to
obtain the best final result. 

Laser in-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)

Utilizing the accuracy and precision of the excimer laser, LASIK changes the shape of the cornea to improve the way light is focused or "refracted" by the eye. First, a thin layer of the cornea, or corneal cap, is lifted up as an instrument called a microkeratome glides across the cornea. Then, in less than 60 seconds, ultraviolet light and high energy pulses from the excimer laser reshape the internal cornea with accuracy up to 0.25 microns. By adjusting the pattern of the laser beam, it is possible to treat high levels of nearsightedness and moderate amounts of farsightedness and astigmatism.

After the tissue has been reshaped, the flap is replaced in its original position. Because of the cornea's extraordinary natural bonding qualities, healing is rapid and does not require stitches. In most cases LASIK is performed as an outpatient procedure in the comfort and convenience of an excimer surgical suite. The entire procedure takes less than 30 minutes.

The procedure is performed cornea is using "eye drop" anesthesia. Some patients report a slight, postoperative discomfort that can usually be alleviated with medications. Many patients see a dramatic improvement in their vision within the first day. For others, vision may be blurry and fluctuate for several weeks or more. Most patients return to their normal activities within a day or two.  

The Best Candidate

LASIK is ideal for patients past the age of 18 whose corneas are healthy and strong. If your prescription has increased significantly within the past year, you should consider delaying your LASIK procedure. The LASIK procedure should not be performed on patients who suffer from certain medical conditions, or on pregnant women.

Expectations

The decision to undergo a LASIK procedure is a personal one. Before undergoing LASIK, it is important to know the risks involved, and to have realistic expectations. A LASIK procedure can drastically improve, but not perfect, your vision. Nor does LASIK correct for presbyopia, an aging of the eye that typically requires people to use reading glasses. Many patients past the age of 40 may be required to wear reading glasses once LASIK has been performed. Contact your doctor for additional information on whether you are a good candidate for the LASIK procedure.

The First Step

Finding out more about your refractive error is your first step toward visual independence. This is accomplished by calling Dr. Glinski and scheduling personal consultation. Should your refractive error fall within the range of correction for LASIK, more comprehensive tests will be necessary.