Laser Vision Correction
Imagine life without glasses or contacts!
Clearly, one of the most exciting developments in the history of eye care is laser vision correction. With laser vision correction, the need for glasses or contact lenses - due to nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism - can be greatly reduced or eliminated.
Rice Medical Center is proud to make this breakthrough procedure available to our community through our Ophthalmology Department and team of board-certified ophthalmologists.
What is Laser vision Correction?
Developed in 1995, LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis) utilizes excimer laser technology to reshape the cornea, the clear front surface of the eyeball responsible for the majority of our focusing ability.
In a virtually painless and quick procedure - typically only a few minutes per eye - the ophthalmologist alters the curvature of the cornea by removing a specific number of layers, using a "cool" laser beam, precisely calculated by a computer.
In detail:
- A small section of the front of the cornea is lifted away, remaining attached to the cornea on one side.
- The laser then delivers a programmed number of ultraviolet light pulses onto the newly exposed area of the cornea, removing a microscopic layer of tissue with each pulse.
- On completion, the corneal flap is returned to its place. The flap adheres to it's bed somewhat like velcro as it heals, so stitching is rarely required.
Of the more than 1 million laser vision correction procedures in the United States each year, few patients report pain. Anesthetic eye drops are given prior to surgery and patients feel minimal discomfort, only occasional slight pressure on the eye. The protective flap of the cornea helps facilitate healing and reduces irritation following surgery.
A sight far better than before.
Rice Medical Center has successfully provided laser vision correction since 1997.
Nationally, studies have found that 95% of all LASIK patients improve to 20/40 vision within six months of LASIK surgery - qualifying you to legally drive an automobile without corrective eyewear - with more than 50% actually achieving 20/20 or better vision.
As impressive as these statistics are, be advised that most patients will require reading glasses past the age of 40 to correct presbyopia, a near-vision condition that develops normally with age and isn't correctable with any surgical procedure. Likewise, an individual patient's healing response can vary.
Are you a candidate?
Your expert Rice Medical Center ophthalmologist can determine if you're a candidate for laser vision correction.
Generally, nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism can be treated with laser vision correction. However, not everyone qualifies for the procedure. The more nearsighted you are, the greater your risk of complications or unsuccessful surgery. In addition, if you have large pupils, your risk of glare, halos or ghost images increases with surgery.
To find out if laser vision correction is right for you, schedule your free, one-on-one consultation with one of our qualified eye care professionals by calling:
Laser Vision Correction Team at (715)342-7817.
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