The cornea is the clear covering on the front of the eye which bends, or refracts, light rays that focus on the retina in the back of the eye. A certain shape, or curvature, is required in order for light to focus exactly on the retina rather than in front of it or behind it. Corneal curvature may be surgically corrected using Laser Vision Correction to decrease the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. A thorough eye examination and consultation are necessary before a treatment decision can be made.

Laser Vision Correction/ Advanced Surface Ablation

Laser vision correction decreases the need for glasses or contact lenses. Laser vision correction is a form of refractive surgery that changes the way light is bent, or refracted, as it passes through the cornea so that it focuses on the retina so that the objects can be seen clearer. The procedure may be effective for many patients with nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism.

The Laser Vision Correction Procedure     The laser emits cool pulses of ultraviolet light, directly to the surface of the eye, reshaping the cornea.

Advanced surface ablation procedures such as LASEK and PRK achieve the same result as LASIK without cutting a deep flap in the cornea. Instead, a thin layer of epithelial cells is removed non-surgically. In LASEK, the cells are removed with an alcohol solution; after the laser reshaping is complete, the cells are replaced and the patient wears a contact lens while the cornea heals. PRK is similar except the cells are removed with a soft brush and are not replaced after the procedure. Advanced surface ablation is often an attractive alternative for patients with very thin corneas.

Laser vision correction procedures takes only 10 to 15 minutes for both eyes, and patients are ready to leave the office within minutes of the procedure. Antibiotic and steroid drops will be prescribed along with any other post-operative instructions.

In order to help you make the important decision as to whether this procedure is right for you, we have provided some commonly asked questions below. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact our office at (912) 355-9020.

What is laser vision correction?
It is an outpatient treatment first performed in 1987 that uses a light beam to gently reshape the surface of the eye (the cornea) and improve vision. The light gently pulses to remove microscopic amounts of tissue, altering the curvature of the cornea and allowing visual images to be focused closer to the retina.

What are the benefits?
Laser vision correction reduces nearsightedness, astigmatism, and farsightedness and, with it, reduces the need for glasses or contacts.

How does laser vision correction improve nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism?
The cool beam of light gently reshapes the surface of the cornea, making it more like a normal eye. Light can then focus closer to the retina, making images clearer.

Does laser vision correction hurt?
Your eye is numbed with eye drops that are instilled prior to the procedure and no general anesthetic is necessary. You may experience a little discomfort but the procedure itself is painless. After treatment, your doctor may prescribe pain medication if needed.

How soon can I return to work?
Some people may return to work after treatment. Two or three days of rest are suggested.