What is LASIK surgery?
LASIK (Laser–assisted in situ Keratomileusis) is a popular type of outpatient surgery that uses
an Excimer laser and microkeratone to reshape the cornea to correct various
refractive errors and
reduce patients’ dependency on contact lenses and glasses.
As LASIK vision correction technology advances, new types of LASIK surgery in Colorado Springs, CO have been developed. While different types
of LASIK surgery approach vision correction in slightly different ways, all LASIK surgery follows the same general
pattern procedure, a tiny flap is cut in the top of the cornea, underlying corneal tissue is reshaped via laser
and the flap is put back in place. LASIK surgery permanently reshapes the central tissue of the cornea. While
LASIK vision correction for farsightedness makes the corneal slope steeper, nearsighted people have their corneas
flattened. For astigmatism, LASIK surgery reshapes the cornea into a more spherical shape. Reshaping of the cornea
improves the eye’s ability to focus and enhances patients’ visual acuity. A patient of LASIK surgery in Colorado Springs, CO is not guaranteed 20/20
vision. Most LASIK surgery patients experience dramatically improved vision within mere moments of the procedure. While ideal
visual acuity may take up to six months to achieve, it is very common for patients to demonstrate near-perfect vision
during their follow-up examinations the day after LASIK surgery, and to immediately discontinue the use of glasses
or contact lenses. In some cases those who wear glasses or contact lenses prior to LASIK surgery may have to continue to do
so after the procedure. The prescription required for proper vision may be significantly decreased and in some
exceptional cases vision may be completely restored.
What types of LASIK surgery are available?
New developments in LASIK include Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA), Blended Vision, Intra LASIK and Custom Lasik surgery.
- Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) - ASA, also known as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), is an advanced form of
LASIK vision correction performed only by extremely
skilled and experienced surgeons. ASA reshapes the cornea without creating a corneal flap. Although ASA is one of
the safest methods of LASIK vision correction, patients do tend to experience a longer recovery period and in some
cases, discomfort for a few days post surgery.
- The Blended Vision (Monovision) procedure can improve both near and far vision by treating both eyes separately.
One cornea is reshaped to correct Myopia while the other is reshaped to correct Hyperopia.
- Intra LASIK surgery - In this method, the surgeon uses a laser rather than a microkeratome blade to create the corneal flap.
- Custom LASIK Surgery
- Custom LASIK surgery is a method where Wavefront technology is used to customize for the
patient’s unique eye structure. A Wavefront analyzer is an instrument used to measure how light travels through the
cornea of the patient and then compares it to an eye with perfect vision. The surgeon uses this comparison as a guide
when performing Custom LASIK surgery. Custom LASIK can be used to treat and reduce refraction errors beyond the norm such as
halos, glare and decreased night vision.
Am I a good candidate for LASIK surgery?
If you are considering LASIK, an experienced ophthalmologist can help you determine if you are a good candidate. The
following are a few good guidelines to determine if you should have LASIK surgery performed:
- should be at least 18 year of age
- have had no change in vision errors for at least one year
- should have realistic expectations regarding the results
If you have experienced an eye infection or injury in the past year, you should postpone LASIK until cleared by an
ophthalmologist. Those affected by an autoimmune disorder, herpes infection in the eye, scaring of the cornea, dry
eye syndrome or those who may be pregnant or are nursing, should not consider LASIK surgery.
What should I do next if I am a good candidate for LASIK surgery?
If you meet the requirements of LASIK surgery and it is determined that you are a good candidate for this effective, safe and
popular procedure, an ophthalmologist will begin preparation for surgery with an eye examination. During this
examination, the ophthalmologist will measure such factors as the amount of refractive error and corneal thickness.
Then it can be discussed which type of LASIK surgery will meet your needs best.
How should I choose a LASIK Surgeon?
When considering LASIK laser vision correction, choosing a dedicated, experienced specialist who can provide optimum
care, is very important. Never choose a surgeon by price alone. Most practices offer financing for the LASIK
procedure. Your decision should not be based on the location of the doctor’s office or the type of LASIK technology
used. A reputable LASIK surgeon should have a good standing in his own community. Asking friends and family who have
had LASIK about their experiences can help you choose the best provider for you. A good LASIK surgeon will thoroughly
explain to you the procedure, risks and complications. He/she should be patient and thorough when addressing all of
your questions and concerns. Most importantly, the LASIK surgeon that you choose should be a part of the LASIK
surgery process from beginning to end. He should perform most of the preoperative exam in addition to the LASIK
surgery, and should monitor your recovery post surgery. Your surgeon should also monitor your eyes in the months to
follow to ensure your satisfaction with your LASIK procedure.
Your vision is one of your most precious assets. The benefits of LASIK include not having to worry as much about glasses
or contact lenses, a wider range of possible activities and increased self-confidence. Patients who undergo LASIK
eye surgery often feel liberated and as though a whole new world of opportunities has been made available to them.
Watch a video explaining the LASIK eye surgery process.
Dr. Marshall has performed over 1800 procedures on Active Duty Military as a LASIK
Surgeon in the Air Force and over 4000 total eye surgeries.
For a Complimentary Consultation please call Joany 719-590-4911
or
email us.