LASIK

The doctors of Eye Associates have extensive training in Laser Surgery Consultation and Clinical Management. They can let you know if you are a good candidate and take care of your pre and postoperative needs.

In the early 1980's researchers found that IBM's new excimer laser, used initially for etching computer chips, had refractive surgery applications as well. Unlike other lasers that tend to damage surrounding tissue, the "cold" light from the excimer laser created no thermal damage and left a very clean margin.

Ultraviolet light and high energy pulses lasting only a billionth of a second disrupt the molecular bonds between the corneal cells with accuracy up to 0.25 microns. The beam of the excimer light is so fine, it would take over 200 pulses to etch through a single strand of human hair. The first excimer laser procedure to correct nearsightedness was done in 1988. Since those early days, the excimer laser has undergone many refinements. Excimer laser technology has added more precision and predictability to altering the shape of the cornea and is now being used to treat refractive errors in every advanced country around the world.

LAser In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK), also known as Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis, can be used to treat moderate to high levels of nearsightedness, low to moderate levels of farsightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK combines the computer controlled precision of he excimer laser with the benefits of another type of refractive surgery called Lamellar Keratoplasty. LASIK treats the inner tissue of the cornea.

First, an instrument known as a microkeratome makes a flap in the outer layer of the cornea, at about twenty-five percent of its depth from the surface. Next, the excimer laser sculpts the internal corneal tissue to the correct refractive power. After a few minutes of drying, the corneal flap is laid back in its original position. Due to the cornea's extraordinary natural bonding qualities, stitches are not required. LASIK results are usually realized sooner since the corneal surface is left intact.

Most patients return to work the next day after their post-operative visit with one of the doctors at Eye Associates. We have extensive experience in both pre and post-operative care.

To schedule a Lasik consultation with one of our skilled doctors, please sign up for an appointment online.