What is LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK, which is an abbreviation for Laser-Assisted In-situ Keratomileusis, uses incredibly precise lasers to reshape the cornea in order to decrease a patient’s dependence on contacts or glasses. LASIK can correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Dr. Feuerman performs bladeless LASIK, which uses lasers for every step of the procedure. First, a femtosecond laser is used to create a flap in the top layer of the cornea. The flap is gently folded back, and then an excimer laser is used to precisely sculpt the mid-cornea. The flap is then gently repositioned and re-adheres without the need for any sutures. Healing and recovery are very quick, and patients usually feel and see well enough to return to work after their follow-up appointment one day after surgery.
What is Advanced Surface Ablation or PRK?
Advanced surface ablation, or PRK, which stands for photorefractive keratectomy, is another refractive procedure performed by Dr. Feuerman that uses the excimer laser to precisely reshape the cornea. It is similar to LASIK, but no flap is created. Just like LASIK, PRK can treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Most patients who are eligible for LASIK are also eligible for PRK. In some patients, such as those with thinner corneas or other conditions, PRK may be the preferred technique.
Just like LASIK, PRK is a very predictable and stable procedure with excellent visual outcomes. Statistical outcomes for PRK are equivalent to LASIK. However, since no corneal flap is created in PRK, healing of the corneal surface and visual recovery takes a little bit longer. Patients go home from surgery with a bandage contact lens on the eye, which is removed by Dr. Feuerman after approximately 5 days.
Are you good candidate for laser vision correction with LASIK or PRK?
Individuals considering laser vision correction must fall within certain parameters for refractive error, corneal thickness, and corneal shape. Some other basic criteria include age 21 years or older, generally good eye health, not pregnant or nursing, and free from certain systemic diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, collagen vascular disorders, and uncontrolled diabetes.
The best way to find out if you are a good candidate for laser vision correction is to have a screening exam with Dr. Feuerman.
If you are a contact lens wearer, it is ideal to remove your contacts for a period of time prior to your screening to allow for stabilization of the surface of the eye to achieve the best results from your screening. If you wear soft contact lenses, we recommend two weeks without your contacts. For hard contact lenses, four weeks is ideal. Austin Eye doctors can still do your initial screening if you are not out of your contacts, but we may require one or more extra visits prior to your procedure to ensure stabilization has occurred.