Refractive surgery eliminates the need for glasses and contacts by correcting nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and presbyopia. The most common type of refractive surgery is laser vision correction. It changes the curvature of the cornea using an excimer laser, allowing the light entering the eye to focus onto the retina without corrective lenses.
At Putnoi Eye Care, we offer wavefront-guided treatment for LASIK and PRK using the latest, FDA- approved laser technology in order to achieve the best quality of vision.
LASIK
LASIK (laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis) is the most popular type of laser vision correction. With LASIK, a flap is created using a femtosecond laser and an excimer laser is used to ablate the underlying corneal stroma. The flap is then placed back into place.
PRK
PRK (Photorefractive keratectomy) is another type of laser vision correction that corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, no flap is created. Instead, the epithelial (superficial tissue) layer of cornea is removed, and the excimer laser is used to ablate the underlying corneal stroma. A bandage contact lens is then placed for 5-7 days until the corneal epithelium regenerates.
Consultation
Prior to scheduling your surgery, Dr. Narae Ko will conduct a complete eye examination and testing, including a dilated exam. She will discuss in detail the appropriate type of surgery for your eyes. This includes risks for complications and postoperative courses. Consultation visits typically last about 2 hours.
Procedure
Light oral sedation will be provided on the day of the procedure. Dr. Ko will examine your eyes and take you to the laser room. Anesthetic drops will be administered to numb your eyes. Your eyes and eyelids will be cleaned. A lid holder will be placed to keep your eye open. Laser treatment for each eye typically lasts less than 30 seconds. A bandage contact lens will be placed after PRK and removed 1 week after the procedure.
Postoperative Care
With LASIK, typically you will have an excellent vision by the next day. With PRK, recovery is longer as your corneal epithelium has to heal. You will not be able to drive for a week and it can take anywhere between 2-6 months to achieve 20/20 vision. Dr. Ko will follow you at regular intervals. You will be using eye drops for 4-8 weeks. During each visit, Dr. Ko will review your eye drops and activity restrictions. You may resume heavy exercises after 1 week and swimming after 1 month.
What if I’m not a good candidate for LASIK or PRK?
For patients who are not able to undergo laser vision correction, refractive lens exchange is an excellent, alternative option. With refractive lens exchange, the natural lens is removed and an artificial lens is implanted, similar to cataract surgery. At Putnoi Eye Care, we offer a wide selection of lens implants, including monofocal, multifocal, and toric intraocular lenses, to suit your needs. Click here for more information (link to cataract page).
