Laser Vision Correction Options
Until recently, glasses and contacts were the only options available to correct refractive conditions. With the latest advances in Excimer Lasers and surgical procedures there are several other options available to correct vision problems. The important thing is to find the procedure that is best for your specific situation. LASIK, IntraLase, PRK, LASEK, Intraocular Contact Lens (ICL), clear lens extraction and specialty IOLs (multifocal; like a bifocal built into your lens implant) are just a few of the choices you have.
LASIK, or laser in-situ keratomileusis, is the fastest-growing and most accepted form of laser vision correction. LASIK can treat both nearsightedness and farsightedness with or without astigmatism.
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) uses a laser to sculpt the surface of the cornea. The procedure is effective in treating low to moderate levels of myopia or hyperopia with or without astigmatism.
Laser-Assisted sub-Epithelial Keratectomy (LASEK) is a variant of PRK where the epithelium is removed with alcohol, saved and replaced after the laser application. In some patients, this may provide more rapid healing than with PRK, although still usually slower than LASIK.
Specialty IOLs (multifocal lenses) offer the possibility of seeing well at more than one distance, without glasses or contacts. In some patients who have refractive errors outside the range treatable with LASIK, or that have cataract formation, removal of the natural lens of the eye and replacement with an intraocular lens may be helpful in reducing their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. This procedure is very similar to cataract surgery that is done for a cloudy lens. The accuracy in obtaining the desired improvement is quite high. In some patients, multifocal lenses may be helpful in improving distance and near vision.
Your doctor will work with you to determine which option is the best fit.