The Different Laser Treatments For Eyes

Many people assume that LASIK and laser eye treatment mean the same thing. In fact, LASIK is just one technique for laser eye treatment. There are new methods being developed every year, making laser eye treatment even more accurate. The one you choose should be based on your specific eye condition, as well as personal preference. These surgery options are very sophisticated, so you should understand your eye correction prescription before choosing one. Here are a few of the most commonly used methods:

• LASIK - This is the most commonly used procedure for people who are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism. A small incision is made in the corner of the eye, creating a flap. Then, a computer-guided laser beam is used on the cornea underneath the flap. This precise reshaping of the cornea is what changes the patient’s vision. At the end of the surgery, the flap is simply repositioned over the eye. Healing time is just a few days.
• LASEK - LASEK involves the lifting of the outer layer of your eye with a fine blade. Then, alcohol is used to loosen the tissue. Finally, the laser is used underneath it, on the cornea, just as it is used in LASIK. This option offers a very fast recovery time, usually within a day or two.
• Zyoptix - A very new procedure, this technique can be used for many eye conditions. The laser works more quickly, allowing the surgeon to be more accurate when reshaping your cornea. This can produce better vision results.
• PRK - Photorefractive keratectomy is one of the oldest procedures, and it is not as commonly used today. With PRK, the outer surface of the eye is removed using a laser. This procedure works best on people with mild or moderate eye conditions. On the downside, the recovery time is more gradual than with newer method, and it can take several months for your eyes to fully heal.

There are several other options as well, which are used to correct specific eye issues. All of these methods involve the reshaping of the cornea to change the vision. They differ in how the cornea is accessed by the surgeon, as well as how the cornea is reshaped. Discuss all of the possible options with your laser eye surgeon before deciding on a method for your laser eye treatment.

A good surgeon will explain all of the options to you and help you choose the best one for your situation.