The Laser Refractive Center provides standard refractive procedures for the correction of vision, and offers emerging therapies as they become available.
Center physicians have access to the latest laser technology and are versed in current refractive techniques, including custom LASIK, custom LASEK/PRK, conductive keratoplasty (CK), intracorneal ring implants (INTACS), astigmatic keratotomy (AK), natural lens replacement (NLR), phakic intraocular lens implantation and accomodative intraocular lens implantation.
This enables them to treat a broad range of conditions and to customize treatment for each patient’s individual needs. Patients referred to the Center undergo a complete ocular examination and testing to analyze corneal shape and identify conditions that may interfere with surgical correction. Candidates for laser surgery are educated about the benefits, risks and alternatives to surgery.
Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) combines incisional and laser surgery to improve myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism. In LASIK, a drop of anesthetic is applied to numb the eye.
The surgeon uses a special instrument to cut into the cornea. A portion of the cornea is peeled back to create a flap and expose the inner portion of corneal tissue. The eye is positioned under an excimer laser, which has been programmed to remove microscopic amounts of the internal corneal tissue.
Removal of the tissue changes the curvature of the cornea. If the patient is nearsighted, tissue from the central part of the cornea is removed to decrease the curvature or flatten the cornea. If a patient is farsighted, tissue in the peripheral part of the cornea is removed to increase the curvature of the cornea. To correct for astigmatism, selected tissue at certain angles is removed to insure that the cornea curves equally in all directions.
After the laser energy is applied, the flap is returned to its original position. The corneal tissue has extraordinary natural bonding qualities that allow effective healing without the use of stitches.
Results from LASIK are excellent with 95% of patients achieving 20/40 vision or better. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes. Improved vision is often possible on the day following the surgery. Eye drops and night protection are necessary for designated periods of time.
