Lasers are popular weapons in science fiction movies. In real life, lasers enjoy just as much popularity with far less nefarious motives. In fact, laser vision correction is one of the most popular ways to fix common vision disorders.
If you are ready to reduce or eliminate your prescription glasses and contact lenses, Dr. Ernest W. Kornmehl is here to help. He is an internationally recognized ophthalmologist and laser eye surgeon who offers laser vision correction in the Boston area. Here, he discusses two laser vision correction options and the vision disorders they correct.
LASIK
Dr. Kornmehl is an experienced ophthalmologist and a LASIK (Laser-in-situ Keratomileusis) specialist. His extensive experience and training have allowed him to develop a unique approach to LASIK. When Dr. Kornmehl performs LASIK, he uses the Kornmehl LASIK System®, a system he helped create to deliver consistent and predictable LASIK results.
During LASIK, Dr. Kornmehl makes a thin, hinged flap, using a laser, on the outer layer of the cornea (the transparent front part of the eye) and folds it back. An excimer laser is then used to reshape the cornea so that light can properly focus on the retina, resulting in clear vision. After the cornea is reshaped, the flap is put back in place. The flap heals on its own following the procedure.
LASIK is a quick procedure that requires relatively little downtime. It can be used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. Patients can expect to achieve vision correction within one to four weeks following LASIK.
PRK
Dr. Kornmehl also specializes in PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), another laser vision correction option that also utilizes an excimer laser.
Just like LASIK, PRK utilizes a laser to reshape the cornea for clear vision. However, PRK does not utilize a corneal flap. Instead, the laser removes the outer layer of cells on the cornea to reshape the cornea.
PRK is a quick procedure. It can be used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.
PRK and LASIK are both safe and effective laser vision correction options. There are a few reasons that PRK may be recommended instead of LASIK. These reasons have to do with avoiding the creation of the corneal flap. PRK may be preferred over LASIK for patients with thin corneas or an irregular corneal surface. Additionally, PRK may be preferred over LASIK for certain athletes, members of the military or law enforcement officers, who have an increased chance of being struck in the eye while the corneal flap heals.
If you’re interested in learning more about your laser vision correction options, contact Kornmehl Laser Eye Associates in Boston, Massachusetts at (877) 870-2010.