Laser vision correction

Laser vision correction treatment uses a cold, high-precision beam, which is precisely programmed to remove a microscopic layer of the cornea that alters its curvature, to correct vision. 

In reshaping the cornea, the focussing power of the cornea is altered, thus shifting the focus of the incoming light to the correct plane, the retina.

LASIK

(Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) has become one of the most common forms of laser vision correction. This is because it is performed under a protective layer of corneal tissue, meaning there is less surface area to heal and less risk of corneal haze and scarring. It also allows for a more rapid visual recovery, often within a couple of days. LASIK is able to treat a broad range of refractive errors.

More than 15 million LASIK procedures have been performed worldwide, since it was first introduced in the late 1980s. Some experts predict that it will become the most commonly performed procedure in the world.

The goal of LASIK is to reduce a patient's dependence on their glasses or contact lenses. Current research suggests that over 99% of patients reach the legal driving standard without glasses or lenses following LASIK treatment. At Laser Vision, the Consultant's aim is to achieve the best possible vision for each patient.

LASIK is a virtually painless procedure and most patients only need anaesthetic drops to numb the eye prior to having this performed. The majority of patients say they feel no pain at all, though some mention feeling mild pressure or vibration during their treatment. Following the treatment there may be mild discomfort, but this is usually relieved by the use of the drops given at the time of the procedure, and by resting.

The procedure is very quick and involves creating a thin flap in the cornea and the laser is then applied to the mid corneal structure. The flap is then replaced and the vision recovers very quickly.

LASEK

(Laser Assisted Epithelial Keratomileusis) is the other main alternative to LASIK.

The LASEK procedure involves preserving the extremely thin epithelial layer by lifting it from the eye's surface before laser energy is applied for reshaping. After the LASEK procedure, the epithelium is replaced on the eye's surface.

This is known as 'surface' laser, and is safer if your corneas are too thin or too steep for LASIK, or when it may be difficult to create a LASIK flap. The success rates for LASEK are very similar to those for the LASIK procedure Patients undergoing LASEK procedures often find that the healing process is slower than with LASIK and can result in more discomfort. The eyes may feel irritated during the first few days afterwards. Also, with LASEK compared with LASIK, it often takes longer to recover good vision; perhaps between four and seven days.

LASEK has many sub variations, including EPI-LASEK, M-LASEK , A-CAT LASEK and T-CAT LAESK. These can be discussed at your consultation.

Variations
LASEK - uses alcohol to lift the surface cells
EPI-LASEK - uses a machine without a blade to lift the cells
M-LASEK - uses anti-scarring agents to allow for higher prescription treatments.
A-CAT LASEK - uses wavefront optimised mapping for customised treatments.
T-CAT LASEK - uses precise corneal mapping for customised treatments.

PRK

PRK (Photo Refractive Keratectomy) is similar to LASEK in that it is a surface based treatment. The key difference is that the surface cells are removed and new cells are needed to over the surface.

This may be the treatment of choice if the surface cells are unhealthy for any given reason.