Laser eye surgery has recently become a very viable option for many, both in terms of ease and affordability. In general, laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea, the clear front part of the eye; this changes the cornea’s focusing power, therefore correcting vision issues. Generally speaking, people in their 20s or 30s with mild to moderate farsightedness, nearsightedness, and/or astigmatism are usually the perfect candidates for laser vision correction. Children under 18 are not typically considered for laser surgery because their eyes have many changes yet to undergo. Older people or people with certain diseases and/or eye issues are not often ideal candidates for laser eye surgery. Talking at length with your ophthalmologist will answer any questions you have about whether or not laser eye surgery is an option for you.

When considering laser eye surgery, there are several different options to choose from with PRK (PhotoRefractive Keratectomy) and LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) being the two most well-known and used practices. PRK, or PhotoRefractive Keratectomy involves complete removal of the top surface level of the cornea called the epithelium. This exposes the inner cornea which the computer assisted laser will begin to re sculpt the curvature of the eye. By doing this reshaping of the cornea, the cornea’s focusing power is changed.

LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, takes place when the surgeon uses a surgical instrument called a microkeratome to create a corneal flap. Once created, a portion of the flap remains attached to the eye while the remainder is gently lifted up and back exposing the inner cornea. The cornea is then re sculpted and and the flap is returned to its original position. Both of the above-mentioned laser eye surgery methods are well known and widely used with good rates of success. If you think you are a candidate for getting rid of your glasses or contact lenses forever, talk with your ophthalmologist about what laser eye surgery options may be available to you.