Laser vision correction is a refractive surgery procedure that uses lasers to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to improve vision. It is used to treat near-sightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism.

During the procedure, an excimer laser is used to remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue. This reshapes the cornea and improves the eye's ability to focus light and correctly shape images on the retina. The goal is to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses after healing is complete.

Types of Laser Vision Correction Procedures
There are different types of vision correction depending on the patient's condition and needs. Some of the most common procedures include:

Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK):
LASIK is the most widely performed type of vision correction. During LASIK, a surgeon uses a laser or microkeratome to create a hinged flap in the cornea. Then an excimer laser is used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. After treatment, the corneal flap is replaced. LASIK takes only a few minutes and provides rapid visual recovery in many cases.

Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis (LASEK):
LASEK is similar to LASIK in that it uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. However, instead of creating a corneal flap, the surgeon uses an alcohol solution to scrape off the cornea's outermost epithelium layer. This is then replaced after laser treatment. LASEK has fewer risks and is safer for thinner corneas. However, recovery can take longer than LASIK.

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK):
PRK eliminates the need for a corneal flap altogether. In PRK, the excimer laser is used to reshape the corneal tissue after the outer layer is gently removed. This carries lower risks than LASIK but results in slightly longer vision recovery times with more discomfort during healing. PRK may be preferred for thinnest corneas where LASIK poses risks.

Candidates for Laser Vision Correction
The best candidates for vision correction are adults aged 18 years and older with stable vision who:

- Have a manifest refraction within a certain range of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.

- Have a healthy eye exam and no underlying eye diseases.

- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding.

- Have enough corneal thickness for safe laser treatment.

- Are able to understand and comply with post-op care protocols.

Careful testing and evaluation by a board-certified eye surgeon is required to determine patient eligibility and suitability. Those with dense dry eyes, corneal scarring or ectasia risk are not candidates. Contact lens wearers must stop use before surgery.

Laser Vision Correction Benefits
When successful, vision correction can provide patients with a number of benefits compared to glasses or contact lenses:

- Improved vision without dependence on corrective lenses. Many achieve 20/20 or better vision.

- Enhanced confidence without glasses or lenses to care for.

- Greater ease participating in contact sports, swimming or outdoor activities.

- Reduced discomfort from irritation caused by lenses over time.

- An option for long-term cost savings versus replacing lenses every 1-2 years.

Vision correction is a convenient solution for many to see clearly without optical aids once healed. However, there are also potential risks to consider discussed below.

Risks and Limitations of Laser Vision Correction
While vision correction has a strong safety record, risks still exist and outcomes are not guaranteed:

- Damage to the corneal nerves can cause dry eyes temporarily or long term in some patients.

- Infection, inflammation or delayed healing can impact vision until resolved. Antibiotics are prescribed to prevent infections.

- Regression of vision over time occurs in a small percentage of patients, requiring enhancement procedures.

- Rarely, complications like ectasia or scarring may require surgical correction. Thinner corneas carry higher complication risk.

- Most surgeons require lifetime follow up to monitor vision stability and check for ectasia early.

- Laser corrections only treat nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Newer presbyopia treatments address reading vision.

- Outcomes depend on the equipment, surgeon's skill and patient compliance with postoperative care. Touching or rubbing eyes must be avoided.

The Procedure and Recovery Process
This vision correction is usually performed on an outpatient basis. After numbing eye drops are applied, the laser treatment itself typically takes only a few minutes per eye.

Patients are given antibiotic eye drops and painkillers to use after surgery. The first 24-48 hours involve blurred vision, light sensitivity, stinging and tearing. Most feel comfortable enough to resume light activities within 2-3 days.

It takes around 1 week for vision to stabilize in many cases. Eyes may remain dry or irritated for a month or more as nerves heal. Most patients see well enough to drive within a few days but vision continues improving for up to 3 months.

Follow up exams are vital as surgery heals and stabilizes. Prescription eye drops may be needed short term and artificial tears long term in some patients. Permanent vision improvement takes about 6 months on average.

Laser Vision Correction: The Gold Standard for Correcting Nearsightedness, Farsightedness & Astigmatism

For the right candidates, vision correction provides an innovative and effective solution to nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. When performed by an experienced surgeon, it allows improved vision without glasses or contact lenses for many individuals. Laser procedures continue advancing and becoming safer with new technologies. Patients enjoy better quality of life through enhanced independence, confidence and participation in activities once fully recovered. With proper evaluation and informed consent, vision correction offers a premier option for

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