Over the past decade, vision correction has become increasingly advanced. With more options than ever, it can be hard to choose the right laser vision correction option for you. Luckily, the experts at Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology can walk you through the journey to clear vision!
There are many different kinds of laser vision correction procedures, or refractive surgeries, available today. Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology offers LASIK, PRK, ICL and Refractive Lens Exchange.
LASIK Surgery
LASIK surgery, the most popular laser vision correction procedure today, is known for being virtually painless, extremely effective, and quick to recover from. The goal of LASIK surgery is to reshape the cornea. Once reshaped, your cornea is able to better focus light onto your retina, resulting in clearer vision!
During LASIK surgery, your doctor makes a circular incision on the surface of the cornea. The tissue is then pulled back to create a corneal “flap.” Once the flap is created, your surgeon can treat the inner layers of the cornea with a laser. Once the proper adjustments have been made, the flap is smoothed over and you’re on your way to clear vision!
PRK
PRK is LASIK’s predecessor, but is still widely used today. PRK and LASIK are quite similar, but there is one main difference. During PRK, no corneal flap is created. Instead, the thin first layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is removed completely. This is great for people such as athletes who have a higher risk of corneal flap complications after LASIK.
The recovery process is longer than LASIK’s. The epithelium will grow back on its own with proper care. PRK results are very similar to LASIK results.
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I’m a registered nurse and was referred to Dr. Nguyen by another nurse. I knew I wanted to get Lasik Eye surgery for the past couple of years. The process to begin my first consultation all the way through the surgery process had been so easy. Not only can I now see 20/20, but I am back to work after two days (I didn’t even have to take any days off). I can’t say enough positive things about my surgery, she not only talked me through the whole process, but made sure I was comfortable as well. Her office staff was also great at following up! Everyone was very knowledgable about my surgery, and was able to answer any questions I had. 10/10 would recommended Dr. Anh Nguyen for anyone looking into getting Lasik/PRK eye surgery.
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ICL, a kind of implantable contact lens, is a way to correct vision without removing tissue from the eye. Unlike during LASIK and PRK, no corneal tissue is removed from the eye. Instead, a small lens is implanted into the eye. This lens acts very similar to a contact lens, offering different refractive powers depending on your problem!
Refractive Lens Exchange
RLE is a procedure very similar to cataract surgery. You do not need to have cataracts to undergo RLE, however. During RLE, the natural lens inside of your eye is removed and replaced with an artificial lens called an IOL. There are many different types of IOLs on the market and each have a different purpose. IOLs can correct myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and even presbyopia.
Laser vision correction offers many different options for your unique set of eyes. To find out which procedure is best for you, be sure to contact Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology for your vision correction consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you awake during laser eye surgery?
All of our refractive patients are awake during surgery. however we do give our patients a little pill to help relax them so they feel much more at ease and not too anxious during surgery.
What happens if you blink during laser eye surgery?
The laser machine will automatically stop, the machine is very sensitive. We use a lid speculum and gently keep your eye open while the physician does the procedure. We only operate 1 eye at a time, while the other eye is taped close.
Does Lasik last forever?
No, lasik does not last forever. Short answer your eyes will change as we age, which is called the aging provess, it will happen to all of us. Some in our early 40s others may take a bit longer. Depending on the patients Rx, the bigger the Rx the more likely it is to come back as well.
Can I watch TV after Lasik surgery?
The first 24 hours after any refractive surgery its best to relax and let your eyes work. Your 2 eyeballs have been working for you for your whole life let them relax and let your loved ones take care of you. Listen to podcasts, listen to music, sleep in dark room and continue to use your prescription drops and lubrication.
Can Lasik give you 20 20 Vision?
Here at Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology we like to call it 20 HAPPY. We like to tell patients that they will be what they are with their corrective lenes or glasses. Most patients in our office are 20/20 but we like to say that they are happy with their vision outcome.
Is 55 too old for Lasik eye surgery?
We have many patients that come in for refractive surgery that are on the older side. We offer our patients something call mono-vision. Where one eye is for distance and the other is for up close.
How do I know if Im a candidate for Lasik?
Come in for your free LASIK consultation, we will tell you if youre a candidate
How many days rest is required after Lasik surgery?
Its a good idea to take the next few days after surgery off. Take it easy, your two eyes have been working for you so long, give them a rest. Listen to podcasts, music, try not to watch tv let them rest.
Can eyes get worse after Lasik?
The chances of regression after lasik are low, however, in the case that your prescription changes after lasik, you may be eligible for an enhancement.
Can I do lasik twice?
While it is uncommon to need lasik twice, it is possible to undergo a second round of treatment if you are a candidate.
Does laser surgery leave scars?
Lasik surgery leaves very minor scarring that is only visible under high magnification. The minimal scarring does not have an effect on your vision.
Can laser surgery correct astigmatism?
Yes, in many cases, lasik is a great and effective treatment option for astigmatism.
Can you get 20/20 vision back?
The purpose of refractive surgery is to reduce dependence on glasses and contacts, however, in most cases our patients are able to achieve 20/20 vision or better after surgery.
Can you get laser eye surgery if you need bifocals?
Monovision lasik is a great option to reduce the need for bifocals. This is a procedure in which one eye is corrected fully for distance and the other eye is targeted for near.
Can you be too old for Lasik eye surgery?
Age is not a limiting factor for lasik, however, underlying ocular disease can prevent you from being a good candidate for the procedure.
What are the disadvantages of laser eye surgery?
There is a small risk of dry eyes, glare, and halos after laser eye surgery, however, a thorough screening before undergoing the procedure can help to reduce the chance of having those complications.
Is laser treatment good for eyes?
Laser treatment is a safe and efficient option to reduce to need for glasses or contact lenses. The chances of infection are much higher with contact lens wear.
Is laser vision correction surgery safe?
Laser vision correction is a safe procedure with a very low rate of complications. The most common complications of the procedure are glare, halos, and dry eyes which can be screened for prior to undergoing the procedure.
Who can have laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction is a great option for anyone over the age of 18 who would like to be less dependent on their glasses or contact lenses. A good candidate for laser vision correction must also have a stable prescription and no underlying ocular disease.
How can I improve my night vision after Lasik?
If you are struggling with your night vision after Lasik, you may benefit from an enhancement or touch up procedure. Some patients elect to wear glasses specifically for driving at night to correct any residual prescription.
Can you go blind from Lasik?
The procedure itself will not cause blindness. As with any surgery, there is a small chance of complications such as glare at night, halos around lights, and dry eyes. After the procedure, it is important to use any prescribed drops and follow all instructions given to minimize complications.
What is the success rate of laser eye surgery?
The success rates of laser eye surgery are very high. They usually range from 96-99%.
Whats the worst vision that can be corrected?
This is dependent on the thickness and regularity of your cornea combined with how high your prescription is. If you are not a candidate for Lasik or PRK, you may be a candidate for ICL.
