Over the past few decades, laser eye, or refractive surgery, has become a popular and effective option for people looking to correct their vision.
Many turn to laser procedures like LASIK and PRK for long-term vision improvement, with the aim of being free from glasses and contact lenses.
Dr Rhonda K Van Dran O.D., P.C. in Silver City offers cutting-edge refractive surgery options for patients looking to correct their vision and reduce reliance on vision correction tools.
Types of Laser Eye Surgery
There are several types of laser vision correction procedures, with LASIK and PRK being the most well-known. Each of them has its unique benefits. The right choice depends on various factors like corneal thickness and individual vision goals.
- LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): This is the most popular option for refractive surgery. It involves an eye surgeon creating a thin flap on the cornea. This allows them to reshape the tissue underneath with a laser.
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): PRK is an alternative to LASIK, especially for patients with thinner corneas. Instead of creating a corneal flap, it involves removing the outer layer of the cornea and reshaping the underlying tissue. Compared to LASIK, PRK may have a longer recovery time.
Why Consider Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser eye surgery offers a variety of benefits for those looking to enhance their vision. Some of the key advantages include:
- Long-term Vision Improvement: For many, it eliminates the need for corrective lenses, offering freedom and clarity.
- Quick Recovery: Most laser eye surgeries involve minimal downtime. Many patients also report seeing significant improvements in vision within a day or two.
- Precision and Safety: Modern laser surgeries are highly accurate. They boast high success rates and minimal risk when performed by experienced ophthalmologists.
Who is a Good Candidate for Laser Eye Surgery?
Although laser eye surgery is an excellent option for many, it's not always suitable for everyone. Understanding whether you're a good candidate depends on several factors, such as:
- Age: Most candidates are 18 or older, as vision typically stabilizes by this age. Anyone over 40 may need additional considerations due to age-related conditions like presbyopia.
- Stable Prescription: An ideal candidate has to have had a stable prescription for at least one year before surgery.
- General Eye Health: A good candidate should be free of eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts. Additionally, conditions like severe dry eye may disqualify someone.
- Corneal Thickness: LASIK requires a certain corneal thickness to create a flap. This means those with thin corneas may be better suited for PRK.
What to Expect During Laser Eye Surgery
While laser eye surgery sounds daunting, the procedure is generally quick and painless. Here’s a basic overview of what to expect:
- Pre-Surgery Consult: Our eye doctor conducts an in-depth eye exam to determine the health of your eyes. This determines if you're a good candidate.
- Referrals to Our Network of Eye Surgeons: If you are determined to be a good candidate, Dr. Van Dran, O.D. will refer you to one of the trusted eye surgeons in our network. These specialists use the latest technology and techniques to perform laser eye surgeries.
- During the Procedure: Depending on the type of surgery, your chosen surgeon will use specialized equipment to reshape the cornea. LASIK typically takes less than 10 minutes per eye, with patients experiencing minimal pain during the procedure.
- Recovery: Most patients notice improved vision within 24-48 hours after surgery. Our optometrist will monitor your recovery, ensuring your vision stabilizes as expected.
Request A Laser Eye Surgery Consultation
If you're considering laser eye surgery as an alternative to wearing glasses or contracts, schedule a consultation with Dr Rhonda K Van Dran O.D., P.C. in Silver City.