What is LASIK?
Laser-assisted in situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is a refractive surgical procedure that uses a laser to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. During the LASIK procedure, a thin protective flap is created in the cornea using a femtosecond laser (“al-laser LASIK”). The flap is then folded back allowing Dr. Pandit to reshape the cornea to the desired shape using an excimer laser. Afterwards, the protective flap is put back into place and adheres almost immediately.
Today’s Technology
Over the years, LASIK has improved significantly. This technology has proved to be more precise and more predictable than ever before. In fact, this technology has been approved by the military for their pilots and by NASA for their astronauts. Many of the laser technologies that are used today are extremely successful in reducing or eliminating higher order aberrations, thus improving night vision by reducing glare and halos.
LASIK Consultation
Before anyone decides to have laser vision correction surgery, they must first schedule a LASIK consultation to determine whether or not they are a good candidate for the procedure. During your LASIK consultation, you will have a comprehensive eye exam and advanced testing to evaluate the overall health of your eyes. You will discuss with Dr. Pandit the health of your eyes and the expected outcomes of laser vision correction if you are deemed to be a good candidate.
PRK
What is PRK?
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is similar LASIK above, with the exception that a flap is not created in the cornea. Instead, the surface of the cornea, or epithelium, is brushed away, then the excimer laser treatment is performed. A bandage contact lens is placed on the eye for about 4 days to help the surface epithelium heal and grow back. The lens is then removed. Although it takes longer for sharp vision to return after PRK, the end result is just as good as LASIK.