LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of refractive surgery where the inner tissue of the cornea is reshaped to correct for your prescription. The surgeon creates a protective flap in the cornea (the clear tissue at the front of the eye) that is folded back. The inner tissue of the cornea is then reshaped using a laser. The corneal flap is then re-positioned into place and the eye begins its healing process. LASIK can correct for myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Some qualities that would make you a good candidate for LASIK includes:
- Good ocular health
- Cornea must have adequate thickness
- At least 18 years of age
- Stable vision for at least a year
- Good overall health
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is similar to LASIK in that the inner tissue of the cornea is reshaped, but instead of a flap being created, the surface cells of the cornea are removed. These cells regrow as the eye starts healing. Healing time tends to be a little longer with PRK, but variations in your
eye anatomy and health will determine whether LASIK or PRK would be most suitable for you.
RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange) is a form of surgical vision correction where the natural crystalline lens of the eye is replaced with an intraocular lens. This procedure may be recommended over LASIK when patients desire improvement in both distance and reading vision, have early cataracts, and/or have a high degree of nearsightedness or farsightedness.
ICL (Implantable Contact Lens) is a technique derived from cataract surgery, where a lens is inserted into the eye without removing the natural crystalline lens. Because the natural crystalline lens remains, near vision is unchanged, unlike with refractive lens exchange where the natural lens is replaced by an artificial lens. ICL can correct for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and presbyopia. Patients who are not a candidate for LASIK may benefit from this procedure.
Our optometrists at Stouffville Optometry start with a comprehensive eye examination to determine your candidacy for refractive surgery. All of these refractive procedures require multiple follow-up appointments with your optometrist or the surgical centre to ensure proper healing.