LASIK

LASIK treats refractive errors by removing corneal tissue beneath the surface of the cornea. LASIK combines the accuracy of the excimer laser with the benefits of Lamellar Keratoplasty (LK). LK has been performed on a limited basis since 1949 to correct higher levels of near-sightedness and moderate amounts of far-sightedness.

With LASIK, instead of making a second pass with the microkeratome (as in LK), the excimer laser removes the proper amount of corneal tissue with much greater accuracy. The amount of tissue removed is controlled by the number of pulses and the size and shape of the laser beam.

The thin flap of corneal tissue is then folded back into its original position where it bonds after only a few minutes of drying. No stiches or eye patches are required after the procedure.

Click here to compare LASIK with the PRK procedure.

PRELEX--PRESBYOPIC LENS EXCHANGE
A Procedure to Reduce Dependence on Bifocals

Here at The Eye Center we are now performing a procedure called PRELEX--Presbyopic Lens Exchange. Unlike other refractive procedures, which focus on changing the shape of the cornea, PRELEX works on the lens inside the eye. The eye's natural lens, which becomes inflexible as a result of the natural aging process, is replaced with an artificial lens allowing the patient to regain near and far vision. This is an excellent option for patients over 50 that may be showing signs of developing cataracts, are extremely nearsighted, farsighted or that have corneas too thin for LASIK. PRELEX is becoming the procedure of choice for patients wanting to reduce their dependence on traditional bifocals.

PRELEX is performed on an outpatient basis. The surgeon removes the eye's natural lens through a micro-incision and replaced it with a intraocular lense. Because the incision is small it seals itself without stitches.