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Which procedure is better for my particular needs, LASIK, PRK
or LASEK?
All three
procedures are very effective in correcting nearsightedness,
farsightedness and astigmatism. LASIK has become the procedure
of choice for most patients due to its quicker recovery time
and less risk of discomfort after the procedure. There are several
factors, however, that should be considered prior to making
any decisions as to which procedure best fits your needs.
Is laser vision correction permanent?
Yes,
laser vision correction results in a permanent change to the
shape of the cornea. However, laser vision correction will not
prevent age related conditions such as presbyopia (the need
for reading glasses) or cataracts. These conditions would still
be treated in their normal manner.
What kind of laser will be utilized during my procedure?
At Acuity Eye and Vison Center we provide a choice in laser
technology, which enables Dr. Vale to match a patient's prescription
with the laser best suited for their particular needs. We use
the newest generation VISX Star S4 ActiveTrak excimer laser
system, as well as the NIDEK EC-5000 laser system.These lasers
utilize the latest advanced active eye-tracking system and variable
spot (VISEX) or slit scanning (Nidek) technology, in addition
to numerous other advancements which enable the surgeon to deliver
the best outcome possible. The eye tracker compensates for small
eye movements by guiding the laser beam to keep it centered
precisely over the treatment area, allowing for an improved
level of precision, comfort and safety the other lasers do not
provide. The variable spot scanning and slit scanning technologies
allow for treatment of patients with larger pupil size.
What if enhancement is necessary?
Rarely does a patient require or opt for an enhancement at a
much later time. A late enhancement can be performed if
there are no medical and/or surgical contraindications.
What are the long-term effects of laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction has been performed since 1987. The FDA
has approved the use of the excimer laser and recognized laser
vision correction as being safe and effective for the treatment
of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism in eligible
patients. In the United States alone, over two million procedures
have been performed.
Most experts worldwide are confident that they will discover
no long term problems with laser vision correction and the procedure
has become the most commonly performed refractive surgery in
the world.
When can I return to work and normal activities?
Most patients notice dramatic improvement within the
first few days following the procedure and are able to drive
a car and return to work within one to three days. Most LASIK
patients see quite well the next day. However, the speed of
visual recovery ultimately depends on personal healing patterns.
After Laser vision correction the restriction on activities
are minimal and these will be covered in detail prior to the
procedure.
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