Laser Correction
About Laser Surgery
Laser surgery is the most exciting advancement in eye correction. The food and Drug Administration first approved the excimer laser October 1995 for correcting mild to moderate nearsightedness. Currently, the excimer laser has been approved for use in a procedure called photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK), and, as of November1998, for a procedure called laser in situ Keratomileusis, better known as Lasix.. Lasix is the newest and most accurate way to correct myopia ( nearsightedness), and hyperopia. (farsightedness).
The Procedure
PRK is an outpatient procedure generally performed with local anesthetic eye drops. Refractive surgery gently reshapes the cornea by removing microscopic amounts of tissue from the outer surface with a cool, computer controlled ultraviolet beam of light. The beam is so precise it can cut notches in a strand of human hair without breaking it, and each pulse can remove39 millionths of an inch of tissue in 12 billionth of a second. The procedure itself takes only a few minutes, and patients are generally back to routines in one to three days.
Lasix is a more complex procedure than PRK. It is performed for all degrees of nearsightedness. The surgeon uses a knife to cut a flap of corneal tissue, removes the tissue beneath it with the laser, and then replaces the flap. Lasix is suitable for most severe refractive problems. Generally there is a faster recovery time with Lasix than after PRK.
Is Laser Painful?
There is little or no discomfort during surgery because the eye is anesthetized. Some patients experience a scratchy feeling or sun sensitivity to light for a few days.
We use the most advanced techniques and experienced surgeons available. Dr.Goberville will evaluate you as a potential candidate for lasix surgery, discuss risks and benefits, and provide you with post-operative care. Make your appointment now!
