LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is relatively safe, reliable and fairly painless way to improve vision and reduce or eliminate the need to wear glasses or contact lenses. The LASIK procedure changes the way light is bent, or refracted, as it passes through the cornea, so that it focuses properly on the retina, yielding clear vision.

LASIK is a two-step procedure. In the first step, a thin flap is created on the corneal surface using a microkeratome or laser. Patients are given oral medication and eye drops so they do not feel the instruments. The corneal flap is then carefully lifted and the second step of the procedure begins: The excimer laser is applied to the cornea to slightly change its curvature. The corneal flap is then carefully repositioned and allowed to dry in place for several minutes. The flap heals in place without the need of sutures.

The entire procedure takes about 15-20 minutes for both eyes. Patients routinely leave the center within 30-45 minutse after the completion of their procedure. After several hours, patients usually notice significant visual clearing and are comfortable.

Patients use anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops for about one week after their procedure. Periodic check-up visits are scheduled in order to monitor the healing process.

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a time-tested laser vision correction procedure. PRK uses the same excimer laser to reshape the cornea as is used in the LASIK procedure. In the PRK procedure, the surface cell layers of the cornea are carefully removed using a variety of techniques and then the excimer laser is applied to the corneal surface.

After the laser is completed, eye drops are applied to the corneal surface and a temporary contact lens is placed on the surface of the eye. Healing usually takes place over the next 5-7 days, with resolution and stabilization of vision occurring over the next weeks. The patient is seen at intervals in order to monitor the healing process of the cornea. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are taken by the patient as directed after the procedure.

The various factors concerning the risks, benefits, options and alternatives associated with the various laser vision correction procedures performed at Century Eye Care will be discussed with each patient at the time of his/her individual examination.