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Definitions
CustomVue™ LASIK with wavefront technology
WaveScan-based digital photography helps our surgeons identify, measure and correct eye imperfections 25 times more accurately than with eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Download more about the WaveScan Wavefront System (PDF).*
Laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK)
LASIK is used to treat low to high levels of astigmatism and nearsightedness, and low to moderate farsightedness. A thin layer of the cornea, or corneal flap, is created, using a special instrument called a microkeratome. The flap is then gently folded back by the surgeon and the laser beam positioned over the exposed cornea. Light pulses from the laser are applied to the cornea until the desired correction is achieved. The corneal flap then is gently folded back into place by the surgeon.
LASIK patients may experience some postoperative scratchiness and irritation in the hours following the procedure. Visual recovery is rapid, and most patients see well enough to drive without glasses within 24 hours of their procedure.
For more information, contact us for a copy of "Facts You Need to Know About Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) and Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) Surgery."
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is used to treat low to moderate amounts of nearsightedness and astigmatism. A laser is used to remove corneal tissue from the surface of the cornea, flattening the central optical zone. This allows light rays to focus more directly on the retina, reducing nearsightedness.
The amount of tissue removed depends on the amount of nearsightedness needing correction. This is decided by your surgeon and controlled by a computer. Recovery time usually is three to five days, with most visual improvement seen within the first month.
For more information, contact us for a copy of "Facts You Need to Know About Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) and Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) Surgery."
Verisyse Phakic IOL
A good option for people when custom LASIK is not. During this virtually painless procedure, a small incision is made in the cornea and an intraocular lens (IOL or micro lens) is placed in the space between the iris and the cornea. Then the incision is closed with microscopic stitches that dissolve on their own. Available for prescriptions from -5.00 to -20.00.
Laser-assisted epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK)
LASEK may be a good option for people who are not good candidates for LASIK. LASEK uses the same procedure as photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), except the outer surface layer of the cornea is rolled back into a flap before treatment. After the laser reshaping, the flap is rolled back over the cornea. This procedure may be recommended for people with thin corneas.
Conductive keratoplasty (CK)
Used to treat farsightedness and presbyopia, CK shrinks tissue to reshape the cornea. With this procedure, the surgeon uses a radio frequency probe instead of a laser. No cutting or tissue removal is necessary. The procedure takes about three minutes.
Find out if CK is right for you?
*All data in the enclosed attachments were obtained during clinical trials for Food and Drug Administration approval. Significant progress has been made since then that has increased visual outcomes. Ask your surgeon for more information.
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