LASER VISION CORRECTION is the process of reshaping the cornea with the cool beam from an excimer laser to remove microscopic amounts of tissue to create a new curvature. The process begins with a consultation to determine which procedure would be best for you. An evaluation of the health of the eyes is performed. Contact lenses must stay out for several weeks before coming in for an evaluation, so that accurate measurements can be obtained. iLASIK/LASIK/LASEK/EPI-K are methods used to prepare your eye for the refractive laser treatment. iLASIK- The IntraLase is a femtosecond laser that utilizes a tiny beam of laser light to create your corneal flap, which is then gently lifted and your cornea reshaped to your prescription with the VISX Star4 excimer laser. This combination of laser technologies, known as iLASIK, is 100% blade free and has been successfully performed on hundreds of thousands of patients across the United States. This bladeless, computer-guided technology has been proven in studies to be both safer and more precise. Because of the superior accuracy of IntraLase laser technology, NASA and the Armed Forces have now approved iLASIK as a treatment option for pilots, astronauts and servicemen who are nearsighted, farsighted and have astigmatism. LASIK- a microkeratome instrument is placed on the eye, creating a flap on the surface of the cornea that is then folded back. Laser is applied, then the flap is folded back into place. This method has a shorter recovery time, but carries the risk of flap complications such as wrinkling. LASEK- a special solution is used to soften the surface of the cornea. The surgeon then uses an instrument to remove a thin layer of the cornea. The laser is applied, then a contact lens is placed on the surface to promote healing and comfort. This method eliminates flap complications, but you may have some discomfort during the first few days, and it will take longer for your vision to clear to the expected outcome. EPI-K- an instrument is placed on the cornea that removes a very thin layer (the epithelium) of the cornea. Laser is applied, then a contact lens is placed on the surface to promote healing and comfort. This method has a slightly quicker recovery time and may be more comfortable than Lasek. CUSTOMVUE- We use a VISX Star S4 Excimer Laser to reshape the cornea. The shape of the cornea is what determines whether you are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism. The surgical team will measure and create a WavePrint of your eyes. On the day of your procedure, your unique treatment information is transferred from the WaveScan to the VISX Star S4 Laser. WaveScan Technology- A scan is taken of your eyes to provide the surgeon with a unique map of your vision, allowing the surgeon to custom-tailor your peocedure to your individual needs. This technology has the potential to improve not only how much you see, but also how well you see, in terms of contrast sensitivity and detail. 3D ActiveTrak- Our laser features a system that allows the surgeon to track eye movement in three dimensions. ActiveTrak allows pinpoint accuracy and adds a new level of precision and safety. Benefits of CustomVue Improved overall quality of vision Improved night vision Use of the smallest and fastest laser beam for precision 25 times more accurate than other methods of measurement
The Eye Center of Central PA holds monthly seminars presented by the surgeons to help you get a better understanding of what laser vision correction is all about. Call to register for our next seminar or call for an appointment for a free screening to determine if you are a candidate. Call 570-523-3937 or 570-546-0336. |