What is Laser Vision Correction?
Laser Vision Correction (LVC) improves vision and corrects refractive errors with a laser. This treatment can reduce nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The two most common methods for LVC are laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). Both LASIK and PRK use the same laser to reshape the cornea to dramatically improve your vision. LASIK reshapes your cornea underneath a flap whereas PRK reshapes your eye on the surface.
What Is Bladeless LASIK?
Bladeless LASIK is a premium all-laser surgery that improves vision and reshapes with cornea without a blade. This treatment technique can treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
The procedure combines the most advanced FDA-approved technologies; the Intralase Femtosecond Laser (Intralase iFS) with the VISX Star S4 excimer laser to provide patients with a safe and precise procedure. iDesign advanced technology allows every procedure to be completely personalized for each patient’s eyes, leading to outstanding visual results.
Unlike traditional LASIK, where the first step is to create a flap with a handheld metal blade called a microkeratome, LASIK at Westwood Eye is 100% blade-free. This blade-free method makes LASIK safer, more precise, and more consistent, giving us the capability to treat a wider range of refractive error.
During this refractive procedure, the cornea of your eye is reshaped so light entering your eyes is more focused on your retina. There are two steps of LASIK:
- A corneal flap is created to allow access to your underlying corneal tissue.
- Corneal reshaping with Wavefront VISX iDesign technology. The process is based on a 3D Wavefront map created from your eyes. Vision results using this technology are often superior to traditional methods of LASIK.
What is PRK?
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) or Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) is one of several refractive surgery procedures used to permanently change the shape of the cornea to improve the way it focuses light on the retina. PRK is an effective alternative to LASIK, with very similar results. Patients with dry eyes, thin corneas, higher prescriptions, or active lifestyles are excellent candidates for PRK. The same VISX Star S4 excimer laser with iDesign technology is used to achieve the best results for you.
Will I Have Perfect Vision?
You can expect to achieve excellent results from LVC. Overwhelming majority of patients are extremely happy with the results and can see clearly without glasses or contacts after their procedure. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations and to understand that achieving 20/20 vision after LVC isn’t a guarantee. Although the goal of LVC is to get your vision up to normal, or 20/20, you may only have 20/40 vision. This is considered within a normal range. Outcomes better than 20/20 are not necessarily beneficial, because you may experience eye strain or headaches. Finding an experienced cornea and refractive eye surgeon is essential to great LVC outcomes.
Am I A Candidate For LASIK or PRK?
Even though LASIK and PRK have provided millions of people with clear, hassle-free vision, not everyone is a fully qualified candidate. Generally, patients who meet the age and health requirements are good candidates for LASIK and PRK.
If you’re interested in laser vision correction, the first step is an initial examination to determine if you are a good candidate for LVC. We look forward to talking with you about how we can help you improve your vision.