|
LASIK Frequently Asked Questions
A new laser vision correction procedure.
What is LASIK?
LASIK stands for LASER IN-SITU KERATOMILEUSIS. It is a form of
laser surgery that is capable of correcting a wide range
of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. The
procedure uses a computer-controlled excimer laser to reshape
the cornea to correct your vision. The laser reshaping is done under
a protective flap of tissue to promote a very rapid recovery of vision and
minimize discomfort.
|
|
How long has LASIK been performed?
The first keratomileusis procedure was done on humans
in 1963. The procedure has evolved and improved since then.
The excimer laser has been used for over 10 years and has
received FDA approval for photorefractive keratectomy ( PRK ), a procedure in which the laser is used to sculpt the
surface of the eye. Eye surgeons have been creating a protective flap of tissue for over 30 years. These two techniques were first
combined in 1991 to create a new form of refractive surgery
-- LASIK . Most of the experience with LASIK has been obtained outside
of the United States, where regulatory oversight is not
as stringent. InView began performing LASIK under an Investigational
Device Exemption in May, 1995.
|
|
Who is LASIK useful for?
LASIK can be used to correct nearsightedness (myopia) , farsightedness (hyperopia) , and astigmatism. LASIK is capable of correcting myopia
up to about -12 diopters (higher in certain circumstances) and hyperopia up to about
+6 diopters. It corrects astigmatism up to about 6 diopters.
For those who are not good candidates for LASIK, InView provides a wide variety of other treatment options including surface laser treatments and IOL's.
|
|
Is this procedure long term or reversible?
Some refractive surgical procedures are more easily reversed
than others. LASIK permanently changes the curvature of the cornea . The result can only be modified by additional refractive
surgical procedures.
|
|
What are the possible complications of refractive surgery?
Like all surgical procedures, complications are always
a possibility. Most complications are minor and do not threaten
vision. These include undercorrection, overcorrection, and
visual aberrations (glare, halos, starbursts, shadow images,
double vision, etc.). It is possible for the flap to slip out of position and require repositioning or epithelial
cells may grow under the flap. The incidence of these problems
is about ½ of 1%. Complications that could threaten your
vision are EXTREMELY rare. Infection is the most serious
possible complication. InView has performed about 50,000
procedures and we have had one documented infection, which
was resolved with antibiotic drops with a good outcome and good vision with a contact lens. To help avoid infection,
we do ask that you avoid swimming and exposure to contaminated
water such as hot tubs for two weeks after surgery.
|
|
What is the risk of infection?
Fortunately, infection is a rare event after refractive
surgery. Sterile procedures are meticulously followed and
antibiotics are administered routinely after surgery. In
spite of these measures, infections will occur occasionally.
The likelihood of having an infection after refractive surgery
is about 2 in 40,000 based on our own experience.
|
|
How many LASIK procedures have been performed by InView surgeons?
Over 50,000
|
|
How long does the whole process take?
Are there any follow-up visits?
The 4Sight LASIK examination takes two to three hours. You
will receive a complete eye examination, along with a number
of special tests that are routinely performed. This 10-step process
allows us to determine whether you are an appropriate candidate
for LASIK , or another refractive procedure. During this initial examination your eyes may be dilated.
For surgery, you will be in the operating room about twenty
minutes. However, you will need to allow about three hours
at InView for surgical preparation and postoperative instructions.
Follow-up examinations are performed at 24 hours, two weeks,
and three, six, and twelve months.
|
|
If I have LASIK, would I be more prone to cataracts?
No, LASIK does not contribute to the cause of cataracts or glaucoma, however, it will not prevent these conditions from occurring.
|
|
I have floaters. What causes them?
The back part of the eye (behind the lens and in front
of the retina ) is filled with a jelly-like substance called vitreous.
At birth, the vitreous is firm, clear, and uniform in consistency.
During the process of aging, it separates into solid and
liquid components. It also shrinks and moves forward, away
from the retina. At this time, solid strands can form at
the back of the vitreous and create shadows on the retina.
These are seen as dark specks, circles, and curved lines
that typically move around as the eye moves. With time,
the opacities move further forward, so that the shadows
they form on the retina are less distinct and less noticeable.
These shadows (floaters) are very common and have nothing
to do with refractive surgical procedures, which will neither
cause nor cure them.
|
|
How can I get more information about refractive surgery?
InView has a staff of Patient Counselors available to
answer your questions and provide you with additional written
information. Free patient screenings and educational
seminars are available. For more information call 1-(800)-733-6673
or (404) 843-3937.
|
|
|
|
