Laser eye surgery is the most frequently performed corrective surgery in North America. Having evolved over recent years with new, innovative treatments being offered, it is an extremely appealing route to take for those who wish to rid themselves of their glasses or contact lenses for good.
Of course, the picture isn’t as black-and-white as you’d like to believe. As with any surgery, there are associated risks, as well as the fact that you must first determine if you are suitable for the procedure. There can be a few obstacles in your way, but it’s nothing research can’t clear up for you. Find out more online before you visit a clinic.
Understanding the Different Procedures
1. Custom Wavefront LASIK
Wavefront-guided treatment is an attempt to replace ‘universal’ laser eye surgery. It’s an operation that is tailored precisely to your eye’s optics. Wavefront treatment is recommended for those with particular eye conditions, who do not have the ‘standard’ eye requirements that others do.
Both your eyes will be measured for their individual prescription strengths as well as their optical performance, which will allow the surgeon to determine the quality of your vision once the prescription is in place.
2. LASEK
LASEK is different from standard LASIK, in that the way in the inner part of the cornea is accessed. With LASIK, a thin layer of your cornea is cut to create a flap.
LASEK, on the other hand, involves the outer layer of your cornea being loosened using an alcohol solution and then moved aside. The laser is then applied, before the layer of your cornea smoothed back over to heal.
3. Intralase
Intralase is a type of bladeless surgery, a newer procedure that has been made available by Optimax. Using a femtosecond laser, as opposed to the microkeratome laser and blade used in LASIK treatments, this procedure doesn’t require a blade at all. The flap produced by the femtosecond laser is far more precise in depth. It is also more sterile.
Are you Suitable for Laser Eye Surgery?
These procedures are undoubtedly an exciting prospect for those who have longed to be free of their cumbersome glasses and contact lenses.
Ideally, you should be over 18 and in good health. The fewer health conditions that you have impeding you, the more likely will you qualify for the surgery.
There are a number of considerations which you should discuss with your surgeon, for instance your motivation and vision requirements.
Laser eye surgery is a fantastic, innovative way of correcting your eyesight. The benefits outweigh the minute risks massively. As long as you’ve done your homework, shopped around for a very experienced and qualified surgeon and you’re clear and realistic about your expectations, you have nothing to lose!