Understand the Different Types of Lasik Surgery

Lasik surgery cost ranges anywhere from $499 to $2,500. The cost of Lasik is based on your surgeon’s experience and the type of Lasik surgery performed. There are options when it comes to which Lasik procedure you can choose. Your decision should rest on an appropriate surgical procedure for your eye condition, a trusted Lasik surgeon and a price you’re comfortable paying. Understand the different types of Lasik eye surgery and decide which types of Lasik surgery is best for you.

Lasik Background

Lasik is among the most popular forms of laser eye surgery. Lasik eye surgery involves a procedure to permanently reshape the cornea and elicit vision correction. A microkeratome blade is used to create a flap in the thin outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. An excimer laser reshapes the cornea, and the flap is replaced. The procedure takes about 15 minutes and the recovery time is fairly fast. Most patients can return to normal activities the next day.

PRK as an Alternative to Lasik Surgery

PRK removes the epithelium with a metal surgical tool. The earliest form of laser eye surgery, PRK typically involves a longer recovery time, allowing for the epithelium to grow back. It can cause more discomfort than Lasik eye surgery. Results often take longer for PRK.

Though PRK involves a longer recovery process, it has been the preferred method for patients with thin corneas and large pupils. However, there are a number of newer variations to the original Lasik eye surgery. Many of these different types of Lasik surgery minimize the risk of original Lasik, and can be performed on patients with thin corneas and other eye conditions.

Lasek Surgery

Lasek is a refractive procedure that uses alcohol to separate the outer layer if the cornea, rather than a surgical blade. A laser reshapes the cornea and the epithelium is replaced. By eliminating the risk of a microkeratome blade, Lasek is an option for people with thin corneas.

Through its swift recovery process, Lasek may be a better alternative to PRK. However, Lasek is not without potential complication. The use of alcohol can cause eye irritation and inflammation.

Epi-Lasik

Epi-Lasik is similar to Lasik and Lasek, but employs a fine surgical blade, reducing the risk of a wide corneal flap. Instead of alcohol, a plastic cutting tool separates the epithelium from the eye. Epi-Lasek thereby eliminates possible irritation to the eye.

IntraLasik

IntraLasik, All-Laser Lasik, or Blade-Free Lasik very simply conducts the procedure through lasers, without the use of a microkeratome. IntraLasik is praised for precision through eliminating mistakes that can occur with a surgical blade.

While IntraLasik significantly lowers the risk associated with other refractive surgery, there are some possible complications to consider. The excimer laser is still subject to possible visual errors. A small percentage of patients have also reported issues with light sensitivity. The cost of IntraLasik can be substantially higher than other forms of Lasik surgery.

Wavefront Lasik

Wavefront Lasik is the most precise form of Lasik eye surgery. Much like IntraLasik, lasers replace blades during Wavefront Lasik. But where IntraLasik employs a freehand excimer laser, wavefront technology guides the excimer laser in Wavefront Lasik. The procedure also reduces the risk of night glare, a common complication associated with Lasik surgery. Though the most accurate, Wavefront Lasik is also the most costly among the different forms of Lasik.

Technorati Tags: Different, LASIK, surgery, Types, Understand

Lasik Eye Surgery in 6 Minutes

This is the Science Friday (National Public Radio) video about LASIK eye surgery. The funny thing about this video is that the narrator, who is probably also the producer, is a lot more nervous about LASIK laser vision correction than the patient himself. He is cool as a cucumber, I had LASIK myself, didn’t think it was a big deal and now I see fantastic. The video features Steven Vale, MD, medical director of Acuity Laser Eye & Vision Center in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Dr. Vale is one of the most well-respected and experienced Lasik surgeons in the world. Dr. Vale has performed over 21000 laser vision correction surgeries. Dr. Vale’s ability and experience really comes out in this otherwise realistic and detailed glimpse at the world of laser vision correction surgery.

Technorati Tags: LASIK, Minutes, surgery

Is Epi-lasik Surgery Right for Me

Most people take their vision for granted, especially if they have never suffered from poor vision. For many, there is no other option except for eye surgery. Other people choose corrective surgery because they are tired of always having to use eyeglasses. As you start looking into your eye surgery options, you will find that there are many new techniques that are used in corrective vision surgery. How do you choose the right procedure? What are the differences between LASIK surgery and the new Epi-LASIK surgery?

The Difference between LASIK and Epi-LASIK Surgery

Epi-LASIK and LASIK surgery are different procedures for corrective eye surgery. These procedures reduce or eliminate a person’s need for glasses or contact lenses. Up until recently, the usual procedure for eye corrective surgery was LASIK surgery. LASIK surgery stands for Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, and this procedure basically changes the shape of the eye’s cornea using a laser. During the procedure, a flap is cut in the cornea, and then this flap is folded back to reveal the middle section of the cornea. The laser then changes the shape of the cornea and the flap is then replaced.

Epi-LASIK surgery is also an eye corrective procedure that has evolved from LASIK surgery. It has combined the best elements of LASIK, LASEK and PRK procedures into one. It involves the separation of the epithelial from the top of the cornea, and this eliminates the need to cut into the cornea and create a hinged flap. As opposed to LASIK surgery, Epi-LASIK combines surface based procedures that do not need the flap procedure and the advantages of LASIK surgery, which produce less pain and faster recovery.

Epi-LASIK surgery is still similar to the LASIK technique because it still involves the use of a laser beam to reshape the cornea. It appears to be more effective with people who suffer from mild forms of farsightedness, astigmatism or nearsightedness. If a patient suffers from moderate to severe myopia, then LASIK surgery is still the best option.

Why is Epi-LASIK Surgery Better Than PRK and LASIK Surgery in Some Cases?

Epi-LASIK came about because of certain complications with PRK and LASIK techniques.

• PRK created a large abrasion when removing the epithelial cells and this would cause the patient discomfort. Plus, the procedure caused some haze in the cornea which created haloes around lights. These effects lessened after six months, but were still uncomfortable during that time period.

• LASIK creates a hinged flap, which is not really painful. However, it created other problems caused by the flap, problems such as dry eyes or scratchiness.

Epi-LASIK then tries to avoid the problems associated by both procedures by combining the advantages of surface based procedures that require no flap and the advantages of LASIK that provides less pain and a faster recovery. In essence, Epi-LASIK surgery gives you a shorter visual recovery time and reduces the risk of any complications.

Who does Epi-LASIK surgery benefit?

Studies have shown that people with thin corneas benefit more from this type of surgery, because LASIK surgery requires more corneal tissue in order to create the flap, and these patients don’t have enough corneal tissue.

It is also shown to benefit people who risk having the flap dislodged. These people risk being hit in the face or the eye for any number of reasons, people like athletes or people who work in violent fields, like the military or police fields.

Who Benefits More from LASIK Surgery Rather than Epi-LASIK Surgery?

Patients who have moderate to severe myopia tend to benefit more from LASIK surgery rather than Epi-LASIK. Epi-LASIK suits people who do not have such steep corneas.

Technorati Tags: Epilasik, Right, surgery

My Lasik Eye Surgery

Video of my successful Lasik eye surgery. I was 26 when I did this. No pain, no halo, no complications. I now have 20/20 vision.

Technorati Tags: LASIK, surgery

Five Reasons Why Lasik Surgery is Now Such a Popular Alternative

Millions of people wake up every morning and have to reach for their glasses to see what kind of day it is. But each year over a million of these people decide to do something about it, and start looking into vision correction procedures. LASIK surgery has become a very popular alternative among the variety of choices available.

It is not only Interest in LASIK surgery that has increased dramatically over the past few years. So has the technology, the body of evidence and the quality of life for huge numbers of people. There are many ways that things become “popular” in our media-rich culture, but there are very good, very logical reasons that LASIK has become the vision correction method of choice. Certainly there are more than five reasons why LASIK surgery is now such a popular alternative, but to start you out in this particular area of study, we will start with these. Additional information at DocShop.com, and from other resources as well as the doctors you approach about the procedure, will eventually supply you with everything you need to make your own best decision in this important matter.

1. Famous athletes, politicians and entertainers—in addition to people from all walks of life—are attesting to the joy they feel now that they are able to see their world clearly and in focus. These testimonials have fueled increasing interest and excitement about this revolutionary procedure.

2. The evidence of many years now shows conclusively that LASIK patients recover more quickly than with other methods of vision correction. Considering the busy lifestyles in this day and age, the swift and simple LASIK procedure is favored also because it does not sideline the patient for any length of time. A day or two of rest is sufficient for most patients, who appreciate the fact that they can get back to work and to their family in short order—and see better, of course.

3. Another reason that LASIK surgery has become the preferred procedure for the majority of vision correction patients is because they notice significant vision improvements very soon after surgery. Although in some cases it make take several months for everything to “settle down” and get back to normal, in the vast majority of cases the improvement comes quickly and stabilizes quickly, too.

4. The number of adverse side effects is lower with the LASIK procedure than with other approaches, and the amount of post-operative pain is also less. This means that recovery is smoother and the patient does not need to be taking pain killers than will inhibit their ability to work and live normally. This is a very important consideration for many people.

5. A comparison of the LASIK cost with its proven outcome shows that the procedure is an incredible bargain. For several thousand dollars, a life of blurriness and eye fatigue can be replaced by one of clarity, focus and good old normal eyesight. Considering the importance of the sense of sight, LASIK surgery is an incredible bargain, and that is one of the reasons it has truly become the procedure of choice for correcting certain vision problems.

It is essential that, in your search for a LASIK surgeon, you do not merely rely on articles such as this, but dig deeper.

Monica Keller
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/five-reasons-why-lasik-surgery-is-now-such-a-popular-alternative-132234.html

Is LASIK Eye Surgery For Everyone?

Can everyone who has a problem with their eyesight apply to have LASIK? Clearly, LASIK has got great potential and benefits but just like with any new procedure there are risks associated.

The risk of complications or impaired eyesight after LASIK vision correction can be greatly reduced if you make an effort to establish if you are a good prospect to have LASIK surgery. Not everyone who wants their vision corrected is necessarily a good candidate to have LASIK surgery. Here are a few things to consider before you decide on LASIK:

• If you are risk averse, you probably shouldn’t have LASIK laser surgery. There are possible complications that can come about as a result of LASIK that you should consider before having the procedure done.

• Does your insurance cover LASIK vision correction? How would LASIK laser surgery or possible complications affect your career? If having this procedure would impact your life negatively you might consider another alternative.

• Although the cost of having LASIK done is getting cheaper, it is still quite expensive and you’ll want to make sure it isn’t prohibited by your employer.

• A requirement for LASIK vision correction is that you must be an adult with refractive stability. Refractive instability is common among patients who are 20 or younger with fluctuating hormones. This is caused by several conditions including diabetes, pregnancy or breastfeeding or taking medications that cause fluctuation in vision.

• People who regularly engage in contact sports or suffer from a condition or disease which may affect the healing of a wound might have to consider an alternative to the LASIK vision correction surgery.

There are a number of other situations one should discuss with your doctor prior to deciding on LASIK laser surgery. If you suffer from conditions such as herpes or shingles that affects the area around the eyes, you should disclose that information. Also, any other conditions, including glaucoma, ocular hypertension, eye diseases, eye injuries, previous eye surgeries, or keratoconus should also be discussed.

Please ask your doctor to screen you for the following conditions prior to LASIK eye surgery:

• Blepharitis

• Large pupils

• Thin corneas

• Previous refractive surgeries

• Dry eyes

Only once you have considered and cleared all of the above conditions or discussed them with a LASIK surgeon, can you determine if you are an excellent candidate for LASIK laser surgery.

Jimmy Roos
http://www.articlesbase.com/advertising-articles/is-lasik-eye-surgery-for-everyone-60253.html

Learning about Lasik Surgery Risks

A lot of people refuse help from lasik surgery because they are afraid of the complications and the lasik surgery risks involved. The truth about the risks is never as interesting as the fiction about them and would likely not sell as many newspapers.

Learning that a surgical procedure that is cutting edge is generally safe and produces good results is simply not “news” in comparison to having an assortment of alleged failed surgical procedures and a long list of associated lasik surgery risks. This type of publicity generates a lot of negativity towards an industry and a technological advance that is doing lots of positive good in the world.

As with anything in life, the proper preparation and the truth in information will enable you to get to the heart of the matter and solve the issue. With Lasik surgery risks, it pretty much all comes down to preparation. You can avoid any possible risks by knowing what you are getting into and by finding the best doctor for your money.

With this type of complete information, your lasik eye surgery procedure will go as planned and will provide great results that you can be proud of and be confident in. Without any preparation or information, you may be looking at a more complex case.

Discovering the Risks

The confidence in lasik surgery has increased through the years as we begin to learn more about the procedure and more about the possible lasik surgery risks. With this knowledge, we can begin to tweak the procedure and augment some of the problem areas.

As we end up developing the procedure further, we end up reducing a lot of the risk factors and becoming capable of spreading more information to clients on how to reduce these risks with preparation and information. The best way to avoid risks in lasik is to consult with your doctor about your specific case.

Serious complication risk rates in terms of Lasik surgery is now around the one percent mark. Prior to a period of extensive study, the percentage of people that encountered a form of lasik risks was around five percent or less.

With a period of extensive study came trade journals and other aspects that allowed the doctors to communicate with one another about the risks. From this communication came greater responsibility and information that backed up the industry with confidence.

More information on these risks can be found by searching on your favorite search engine. You can also call for a consultation at your local lasik center to further discuss these risks and request more information.

anonymous
http://www.articlesbase.com/non-fiction-articles/learning-about-lasik-surgery-risks-120513.html

Lasik Surgery Can Free You Of Glasses And Contact Lenses

For most of us who manage daily any level of compromised vision, our world is one where eyeglasses, contact lenses, pricey prescriptions, and frequent visits to the eye doctor are standard. But as Lasik surgery technology has continued to evolve and its popularity has risen exponentially, more and more people are choosing refractive eye surgery as an alternative to glasses and contacts.

Lasik surgery involves the reshaping of the cornea – the thin, transparent tissue covering the iris – or colored section – of your eye. The lens of the eye – which sits right behind the iris refracts – or bends – light rays so that they are seen by the retina – located in the back of the eye. The retina’s job is to then take these light rays and covert them to messages that can be understood by our brain’s optic nerve.

If you understand this process then you can understand that if our eyes suffer refractive difficulties, the light is not bent properly to the retina and the image that our brain receives is blurry. When we wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, the light is brought closer to the lens or sent directly to the retina. Lasik surgery uses laser technology to reshape the cornea so that light is refracted clearly.

During a Lasik surgery procedure, the patient is normally first given anesthetic eye drops to help numb the eye and minimize discomfort after which a speculum is placed on the upper and lower eyelids to prevent blinking. The eye is then immobilized using a corneal suction ring. After the eye is immobilized, a thin incision is made in the top layer of the corneal tissue, making a very thin flap in the tissue. When the flap is folded over, the second layer of the cornea – the stroma – is revealed.

Laser power is then used to resurface this part of the cornea. Such resurfacing is done based on what specific issues are apparent in your particular eye; information that is normally gathered during pre-surgical visits. After the reshaping, the flap is repositioned over the eye; healing takes place naturally and often very quickly.

Lasik surgery is a relatively quick procedure – usually completed in less than 20 minutes for both eyes – and most patients report that it is virtually painless; while it can be mildly uncomfortable at times. While vision may be blurry for up to a day following surgery, most people report clear vision after this time.

Lasik surgery, while popular, is not for everyone. In fact, a pre-surgical examination is imperative to determine if you are a good candidate for Lasik. Surgeons who perform Lasik normally look for at least six months of prescription stability in patients – meaning that your eyeglass or contact lenses prescription has remained the same.

In addition, refractive difficulties should fall under the appropriate guidelines for Lasik correction for the best chance of success. The doctor will also want to ensure that you are in good overall health.

J. Lloyd
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/lasik-surgery-can-free-you-of-glasses-and-contact-lenses-122608.html

Finding Reputable Lasik Eye Surgery In New York

As more and more people choose to seek alternatives to pricey and inconvenient eyeglasses and contact lenses, the popularity of Lasik eye surgery continues to grow exponentially. The Lasik procedure was first performed in the United States in 1991; today over one million people in the U.S. have undergone the procedure. For patients looking to embark on Lasik, finding a reputable surgery center is paramount to achieving success.

For those living in the New York area, reputable Lasik eye surgery in New York is relatively easy to find. In such a populated area – and one that is a medical hub of the east coast – Lasik has been made available to the masses.

Lasik eye surgery works to repair the way in which our eyes refract light. In a normally functioning eye, the lens of the eye works to refract – or bend – light to the retina. The retina – a group of cells in the lining in the back of the eye then takes that light and converts it to messages that can be understood by the optic nerve of the brain. The optic nerve receives these messages as visual images. When one link in the chain is affected the end result changes – much like the childhood game of Whisper Down The Lane.

In the case of refractive disorders such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, light is not refracted properly to the retina. In turn the message that the retina sends to the optic nerve in the brain is received as a blurry image. Lasik surgery corrects the way in which we refract light through the use of laser technology.

During a Lasik procedure the eye is numbed, held open with a speculum, and immobilized with a corneal suction ring. After immobilization, the surgeon cuts a small incision in the top layer of the cornea making a flap. The flap is then folded back and the surgeon is able to access the underlayer of the cornea known as the stroma.

A low-powered laser is used to resurface the stroma so that light is refracted correctly going forward. After the laser procedure, the flap is replaced over the eye and allowed to heal naturally. Such a surgical procedure – while completed quickly – requires enormous precision and skill by experienced surgeons. Those undergoing Lasik eye surgery in New York often have little problem finding reputable and experienced surgical centers.

Ultimately, finding Lasik eye surgery in New York requires some research from the prospective patient. Those living in the New York area can often get a referral from their regular eye doctor or primary physician. But often the best way to find reputable Lasik eye centers is through a recommendation by someone who has had the procedure performed.

Talk to people who you know to have had the procedure and ask questions regarding their particular experience – including comfort level, respect received by the staff, the way in which surgeons addressed their questions and concerns, billing procedures, and aftercare.

Make sure to conduct your own research when it comes to finding Lasik eye surgery in New York; visit surgical centers in which you are interested and interview the surgeons to make sure that you are compatible with them on a personal and professional level. Ultimately – no matter where you have your procedure performed – you should feel as if you have been educated thoroughly regarding the procedure and have had all your questions answered.

J. Lloyd
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/finding-reputable-lasik-eye-surgery-in-new-york-124674.html

laser news

I have a special Laser for you.

Duration : 0:3:5

Technorati Tags: gradualreport, laser, NEWS