What is laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction is a term used to describe one of several refractive surgical procedures used by ophthalmologists to change the shape of the cornea using an excimer laser. Laser vision correction has been approved for correcting cases of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Surgical manipulation of the cornea can alleviate vision problems by allowing light to enter the eye properly. Laser vision correction is a pain free procedure, performed by gently pulsing high-energy cool light onto the eye.
What is LASIK?
The term LASIK is an acronym for “laser in situ keratomileusis”, and is a type of refractive eye surgery in which the cornea is reshaped to adjust the visual capacity of the patient. LASIK surgery uses flap technology by making a tiny incision in the cornea in order to reshape it. When the disc of cornea is raised, the laser is used to manipulate the intrastromal bed of the eye, and correct the ocular impairment. LASIK treatments can be used to correct hyperopia, myopia, and astigmatism. The procedure is minimally invasive and patients can typically leave directly after their treatment.
Who should seek laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction is used to treat ocular impairments such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism.
What is myopia?
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is the inability to see objects that are far away clearly. The severity of myopia varies from person to person. Nearsightedness is the result of a focusing defect in which light rays from objects in the distance come into focus in front of the retina, skewing perception and clarity. Patients with myopia may be good candidates for laser vision correction.
What is hyperopia?
Hyperopia, commonly known as farsightedness, is the inability to see objects clearly when they are close up. Hyperopia is caused by a defect in the eye causing focus to be underpowered. Because of this defect, light rays entering the eye from a distance are blurred by the retina before coming into focus. Patients with hyperopia may wish to learn more about laser vision correction.
What is astigmatism?
Astigmatism is an optical defect causing refractive power to operate poorly. When light rays enter the eye, they are skewed by different meridians, preventing focus of the retina. Depending on the severity of the condition, a person suffering from astigmatism may have difficulty focusing on images and may experience painful headaches. Astigmatism can occur alone or in conjunction with nearsightedness or farsightedness. Laser vision correction may be a suitable solution for those who experience astigmatism.
What is presbyopia?
Presbyopia, also called “the aging eye” typically occurs in people between the ages of 40 and 50. Presbyopia is characterized as a weakening of the eye’s power to accommodate and may cause blurred vision problems when focusing on objects or tasks at a close range. People affected by presbyopia may experience headaches, fatigue or eye strain when they attempt to focus on near objects. There are treatment options for individuals that suffer from presbyopia.
How is laser vision correction surgery performed?
Laser vision correction is typically an outpatient procedure performed using minimal anesthesia. The procedure typically takes less than an hour to complete. After an eye drop is administered to numb the surface, tissue is removed from the cornea and the flap is lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue. Utilizing an excimer laser, the doctor will stimulate the eye to reshape the cornea and correct the eyesight impairment. The flap is then replaced and will adhere to the eyeball. In many cases, laser vision correction can eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses all together.
How successful is laser vision correction?
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, seven out of 10 patients who receive laser vision correction achieve 20/20 vision. Others will commonly experience a noticeable improvement in vision. Some people however, still may need reading glasses after the age of 45, as their eyes begin to age.
Are there complications?
As with any surgical procedure, there can be complications with laser vision correction. However, because the surgery is minimally invasive, complications are rare. Rare occurrences reported with the procedure include over or under correction, corneal scarring, irregular astigmatism, corneal infection, decreased sensitivity and sharpness, difficulty night driving and flap problems.
Mild side effects that a patient may experience temporarily following the surgery include discomfort or pain, hazy vision, dry eye, scratchiness, light sensitivity, glares, and redness of the eye. These side effects typically subside over time.
Who should not undergo laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction surgery may not be appropriate if you:
- Have required a change to your prescription in the past year
- Are younger than 20
- Have a hormone fluctuating disease such as diabetes
- Regularly participate in contact sports
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Also, all medications that you are currently taking should be discussed with your San Diego Eye Institute doctor to avoid complications that may affect your vision.
Is laser vision correction painful?
No. Laser vision correction is a painless procedure. Patients may experience a small amount of discomfort in the hours following the procedure, manifested through a mild burning or scratching sensation. Most patients however, feel considerably better the following morning.
During a laser vision correction procedure, the eye is held open by a speculum. This may feel slightly awkward because of the natural inclination to blink, however with the aid of eye drops most people experience little to no discomfort during the surgery.
How long does the procedure take?
Laser vision correction is a relatively quick procedure, lasting approximately 15 minutes per eye. While the actual laser treatment only takes about one minute, preparation of the eyes extends the treatment time.
Can I go back to work afterwards?
The healing process for laser vision correction is reasonably short, however some find that two to three days of rest can be beneficial. Vision is usually blurry on the day of the surgery but should improve within one day. It is important to report any unusual side effects to your doctor and refrain from rubbing your eyes and driving until your eyes are healed.
Pools, hot tubs, contact sports, eye makeup and lotions should be avoided for two to four weeks following the procedure.
How long does the treatment last for?
Laser vision correction is a permanent procedure. However, this does not mean that the eye will not age or change with time. Even with 20/20 vision, reading glasses may be necessary for those after 40, when eyes are gradually maturing.
How many visits do I need?
Most doctors will request a follow-up visit the day after your surgery. Ideally, following this visit, checkups should be scheduled for one week, two months, and six months following your laser vision correction surgery. Visits may vary from patient to patient depending on the recovery process.
Will I still need to get reading glasses later in life?
Laser vision correction surgery aims to reduce and- at best- eliminate the need for reading glasses. However, even when 20/20 vision is achieved by surgery, this does not prevent the eye from undergoing the natural aging process. Reading glasses may become necessary for people over 45, even with laser vision correction.
Are there long-term risks for laser corrective surgery
While most laser vision correction patients are pleased with the results of their surgery, in very rare cases the following adverse side effects may occur: loss of vision, permanent glares, halos or double vision, severe dry eye syndrome and diminishing long-term results. Our highly qualified surgeons at the San Diego Eye Institute work to mitigate the risks of these rare complications.
How do I choose the best surgeon?
Some important factors to consider when choosing a laser vision correction surgeon are:
- How long has the surgeon been performing LASIK surgery?
- Is the surgeon board certified by the institution the American Academy of Ophthalmology?
- What is the surgeon’s success rate with past patients?
- What are the surgeon’s credentials and qualifications?
- Does the surgeon or institution have a good reputation in your community?
- Is the surgeon experienced and knowledgeable in the latest technology for laser vision correction?
Does insurance cover the costs of my Laser Vision Correction?
Most insurance companies do not cover laser vision correction surgery because it is considered an elective procedure. However, some private companies may offer partial or complete coverage. The San Diego Eye Institute participates in Medicare and many private Preferred Provider plans. We would be happy to help you determine if your insurance provider will cover your costs.
Please contact us if you have additional questions about laser vision correction or other eye care issues.