Laser Vision Correction: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Wearing contacts can be a hassle and even the most stylish glasses may have an unwanted effect on your appearance. Glasses can also break and have a habit of going missing when you need them most. If you want to enjoy 20/20 vision or better without corrective lenses, consider laser eye surgery. At GW Eye Associates, Drs. Gordon Wong and Wildon Wong can discuss several types of laser vision surgeries to meet a wide range of health needs.
Laser vision correction is an incredibly popular option, not only for patients at our La Jolla, CA, practice, but around the world. In the 25 years since the treatment was first introduced, doctors have treated an estimated 20-25 million eyes. Nonetheless, we recognize that you may have many questions. We are always ready to address your concerns before you commit to treatment.
What Is the Difference between LASIK and iLASIK?
Both LASIK and iLASIK™ can address similar issues, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and higher order vision aberrations. During both procedures, your surgeon creates a tiny flap in the surface of your cornea. Lifting up this flap, he can then reshape the cornea underneath, improving the way that light is refracted.
The primary difference between the two procedures is that iLASIK uses a laser to create the corneal flap, whereas traditional LASIK uses a tiny microkeratome blade. This can make the procedure more accurate, although LASIK is still better suited for some patients. It is also generally more affordable.
Is PRK Still Performed and Why Would I Choose This Surgery?
Photorefractive keratectomy predates LASIK surgery but can correct most of the same vision aberrations. Rather than creating a flap in your cornea, your surgeon will remove the top layers of corneal tissue, which will grow back on its own.
This can be a good solution if you have thin corneas, which would disqualify you from LASIK. It may also be a better option if you play contact sports or have a very active job, which can both potentially dislodge the corneal flap.
What Are the Side Effects of Laser Vision Correction?
Long-term complications following laser eye surgery are very rare. However, it is common for patients to experience some minor side effects for a few days. These can include:
- Blurred vision
- Itchy eyes or a feeling like there is something in your eyes
- Watery eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Glare
- Halos
Does Laser Eye Surgery Really Work?
Laser eye surgery is remarkably successful. According to the American Refractive Surgery Council, “LASIK has an unprecedented 96 percent patient satisfaction rate - the highest of any elective procedure.” In fact, 99 percent of patients achieve at least 20/40 vision, while 90 percent achieve 20/20 vision or better.
PRK is also quite successful. Approximately 92 percent of patients have at least 20/40 vision after surgery, while about 70 percent enjoy 20/20 vision or better.
Still Have Questions? Contact Us Today!
To ask further questions or to schedule a consultation, contact us today. You can reach our La Jolla office at (858) 454-4699 and our Del Mar location at (858) 755-9465. We are proud to serve patients across the greater San Diego area.
