How LASIK works
Laser Assisted In-situ Keratomileusis was approved by the FDA in 1998 for the treatment of nearsightedness (Myopia), farsightedness (Hyperopia) and Astigmatism. This revolutionary advancement combined two surgical methods, Photorefractive Keratotomy (PRK), and Lamellar Refractive Surgery.
Lamellar Refractive Surgery was first developed in Latin America in the 1950’s and a device called a Microkeratome was the result. Modeled after the Carpenters Plane, the Microkeratome creates a microscopically thin layer of tissue called a flap. After the flap is created and lifted, PRK is performed to reshape the cornea. The result is an overnight visual recovery and virtually no discomfort to the patient.
Photorefractive Keratotomy (PRK) was first approved by the FDA in 1995. The VISX LASER was one of the first to gain approval and quickly achieved the confidence of surgeons all around the country. PRK uses a cool beam of light to gently reshape the cornea.
The two steps involved in this process have not changed over the years. However, the methods in which they are performed have changed dramatically. Prior to LASIK, Photorefractive Keratotomy was the only available method of Laser Vision Correction. While this method of vision correction was safe and predictable, the patient recovery time was long, in some cases several weeks.
This long recovery kept many would be vision correction candidates on the sidelines. The advent of LASIK changed that almost immediately. The marriage of the Microkeratome and PRK allowed for a recovery that was safe and rapid. Patients were ecstatic when they woke up the morning after LASIK with crystal clear vision. LASIK began to boom.
As LASIK ‘s popularity increased so did the technological advancements.
- First was the Eye Tracking System that follows the position of the patient’s eye throughout the procedure at 4,000 times per second. This advancement made LASIK results more predictable, ensuring that the laser energy was applied precisely to the cornea.
- The second major advancement was Custom-Vue or Wavefront technology. This advancement was applied directly to the excimer laser and increased the size of the treatment zone on the cornea. This effect reduced the potential for night vision problems. In addition, Custom-Vue is accompanied by the Wavefront Analyzer that can identify visual problems not captured in a traditional eye exam which tests only for acuteness of vision. Once common complications like “halos” and “glare” were been dramatically reduced with Custome-Vue and Wavefront technologies. Custom LASIK is also credited with increasing visual acuity beyond normal, commonly referred to as 20/15 vision.
- In 2001 the method for creating the flap, the first step in LASIK, changed with the FDA approval of the Femtosecond laser. The Femtosecond laser was researched and developed at the University of Michigan. The Femtosecond laser works differently than the Excimer laser energy since it does not remove or ablate tissue. Instead, this laser energy is designed to penetrate a specified depth of tissue. Once it reaches its depth target it releases millions of microscopic bubbles that overlap. These connected bubbles create a new plane of tissue called a flap.
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What is Laser Vision Correction (LASIK)
Imagine life without contacts or glasses. You can see clearly in bright, vibrant color. You no longer have to squint. Activities like running, biking, hiking, swimming, tennis and golf are much more enjoyable because you don’t have to deal with the hassles associated with corrective lenses. Imagine waking up in the morning and being able to see! Laser vision correction, both PRK or LASIK, can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism so that most patients no longer need eye-glasses or contact lenses.
When you have LASIK at Nuvision, you will save 50% off the cost off your surgery. Finally, everyone can afford to have LASIK. As always, Nuvision offers flexible financing options including 24 months no interest payments. Schedule your complimentary LASIK exam with Dr. Jackson today and save BIG! Over 35,000 success stories!
LASIK Laser Eye Surgery
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