LASIK
(Laser Assisted InSitu Keratomileusis)

LASIK is a laser surgical procedure designed for the correction of nearsightedness, astigmatism, and hyperopia.   It is intended to reduce  or eliminate one's dependence on eye glasses. The success of the procedure has been excellent. Imagine being able to work, drive, read the clock, play sports, do anything that you wish without having to wear eye glasses or contacts!
The LASIK procedure uses the excimer laser to reshape the cornea and can correct  even extreme ranges of  myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia ('farsightedness'), and astigmatism.
 

MYOPIA is a condition in which the eye can focus on close objects, but are unable to focus clearly on distant objects.   It is the result of the cornea being steep and the eyeball too long for distant objects to be focused clearly on the retina.   People with myopia experience blurred or fuzzy vision at a distance, but can see well at some near point. It is estimated that 25% of the general population are nearsighted.

HYPEROPIA (the opposite of myopia) is a condition in which the eyeball is usually flatter and shorter than normal. This shortness makes it difficult for close objects to be focused clearly on the retina.  People with hyperopia often see well at a distance,  depending on their age,  but have had difficulty in focusing up close.

ASTIGMATISM is a condition in which the cornea is curved more in one direction than the other. It may occur independently from myopia or hyperopia.

Both LASIK and PRK take only minutes to perform under topical (eyedrops) anesthesia, and no injections or suturing is required. But LASIK and PRK differ in several ways:

In PRK, the surface corneal cell layer (epithelium) is removed by laser or by topical medication on a micro-sponge, exposing the underlying cornea

The laser is then applied to reshape the cornea and a bandage contact lens is placed on the cornea until the epithelial defect heals (3-5 days).

In LASIK, a very precise instrument called a 'microkeratome' is used to gently fold back a hinged flap (a) of the corneal surface (which stays attached to the rest of the cornea on one side) exposing the underlying tissue.  The excimer laser treatment (b) is then applied to the bed under the flap.   The protective flap (c) of the cornea is then immediately returned to its original position, and the flap assumes the new corneal curvature, thus correcting the refractive error.   The flap seals itself (self bonds) naturally in about 12 hours. Since LASIK does not remove the surface corneal layer (epithelium), much less post-operative discomfort (scratchy feeling for 2-6 hrs) is experienced.   Most patients enjoy improved vision the day following their procedure.

             

ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR LASER VISION CORRECTION?

Your refractive error, occupation, leisure activities, age and personal expectations all help to determine whether you are a good candidate for laser vision correction. You must have realistic expectations and understand that vision correction procedures are not always perfect.  For most patients, laser refractive surgery offers a 95% or greater chance of gaining normal or near-normal vision.  However, it is impossible to guarantee 20/20 vision with every vision correction procedure, and it may be necessary to wear a thin pair of glasses at certain times such as driving at night, or a weak reading glass if you are over 40 years old.

To be eligible for vision correction surgery, the patient must meet the following criteria:

   Be 18 years of age or older.
   Have stable vision for at least one year before surgery.
   Have healthy eyes that are free of disease, retinal or corneal problems.
   Have realistic expectations and objectives for surgery.

See what you have been missing in the blink of an eye! If your view is distorted by glasses or contact lenses, LASIK Laser Vision Correction may be for you. Don´t let nearsightedness , farsightedness and/or astigmatism keep you from enjoying life to the fullest.  Would you like to be more active in water sports, football, baseball, ice hockey, racquetball, tennis, golf , or any other sports?   If you wish to reduce your dependence on eye glasses and contact lenses for your daily activities, then you have the proper reason for undergoing laser refractive surgery such as LASIK.  The FIRST STEP to determine if you are a candidate for laser vision correction, is by making an appointment with Eye Surgeons of the Palm Beaches for a FREE personal consultation with Alan N. Kohn, M.D., FACS.  During your visit, you will be thoroughly examined and informed on laser vision correction options and have all your questions answered.  To schedule your FREE consultation, call today at:

Eye Surgeons of the Palm Beaches
2505 MetroCentre Blvd., Suite 300
West Palm Beach, FL 33407-3114
TEL:(561) 478-2003

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