Consultation and Co-Management
LASIK and Refractive Surgery
Consultation and Co-Management
LASIK and Refractive Surgery
Are you considering getting LASIK eye surgery? True Focus Eye Care in Port Richey, FL can provide you with a comprehensive LASIK and refractive eye surgery consultation. During this consultation, our eye doctor will evaluate your vision and eye health to find out if LASIK surgery is right for you.
Types of laser eye surgery
Laser eye surgery (or refractive eye surgery) is a type of surgery that uses lasers to reshape the cornea and correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It’s a safe and effective way to improve vision and reduce the need for glasses or contacts.
There are several types of laser eye surgery, each designed to correct different vision problems. Here are some of the most common types:
- LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis): This is the most popular type of laser eye surgery. It uses a laser to reshape the cornea to correct vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness).
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): PRK is similar to LASIK but uses a different technique to reshape the cornea. During the procedure, the outer layer of the cornea is removed before the laser reshapes the cornea. PRK may be a better option for people with thin corneas or other corneal abnormalities.
- LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis): This procedure is similar to PRK, but the surgeon creates a flap in the outer layer of the cornea and then uses the laser to reshape the cornea.
- Epi-LASIK: This is a newer type of laser eye surgery that combines aspects of both LASIK and LASEK. It uses a special device to separate the outer layer of the cornea, making the procedure less invasive.
- SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): This procedure is a minimally invasive option for correcting myopia and astigmatism. It involves creating a small incision in the cornea and removing a small piece of tissue to reshape the cornea.
Alternatives to laser eye surgery
If LASIK or PRK are not suitable for you, there are several lens-based options available that can provide you with clear vision. These include:
- Implantable collamer lens (ICL): An ICL is a type of vision correction surgery that involves implanting a thin, prescription lens inside the eye to correct vision problems. Unlike LASIK and other laser eye surgeries, ICL does not involve reshaping the cornea.
- Refractive lens exchange (RLE): RLE is a surgical procedure that involves removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to correct vision problems. The procedure is similar to cataract surgery, which also involves removing the natural lens and replacing it with an IOL. RLE can be a great alternative to LASIK for older individuals with significant vision problems.
What are the benefits of LASIK eye surgery?
For the right candidates, LASIK eye surgery offers many benefits! Some of the benefits of LASIK eye surgery include:
Improved vision
LASIK can correct refractive errors, resulting in improved vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Convenience
After LASIK, people enjoy the convenience of having clear vision without having to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Quick and relatively painless procedure
LASIK is a quick and relatively painless procedure that can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Long-lasting results
The effects of LASIK are generally permanent, although some patients may require a touch-up procedure later in life.
Improved quality of life
Improved vision and increased convenience can lead to a better quality of life, especially for athletes and people who are very active.
Cost-effective
Over time, LASIK can be more cost-effective than purchasing glasses or contact lenses.
Your refractive eye surgery consultation
When you make an appointment at our office, let us know if you are interested in laser eye surgery. We’ll then make sure to include a LASIK consultation as a part of your exam.
During the LASIK consultation, our team will perform several tests to determine whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure and what type of surgery is best for you. Some of the common diagnostic tests include:
Comprehensive eye exam
During a comprehensive eye exam, our eye doctor will check your vision, test for your eye prescription, and assess your overall eye health. We may also conduct a dilated eye exam to get a closer look at the retina and optic nerve to check for any abnormalities.
Tear film evaluation
A tear film evaluation measures the quality and quantity of tears. By measuring your tears, we can determine your risk of developing dry eye syndrome after the procedure. Dry eye syndrome can be a common side effect of refractive surgeries like LASIK. That’s why it’s important to assess your tear film before the procedure to identify any potential issues and take preventive measures.
Corneal topography
Corneal topography creates a detailed map of the surface of the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye. This map provides critical information about the curvature and shape of the cornea, which helps us determine the best approach for reshaping the cornea during LASIK surgery.
Pachymetry
Pachymetry measures the thickness of the cornea, which is important in determining the amount of tissue that can be safely removed during the procedure.
Tear film evaluation
A tear film evaluation measures the quality and quantity of tears. By measuring your tears, we can determine your risk of developing dry eye syndrome after the procedure. Dry eye syndrome can be a common side effect of refractive surgeries like LASIK. That’s why it’s important to assess your tear film before the procedure to identify any potential issues and take preventive measures.
Wavefront analysis
Wavefront analysis measures the eye’s ability to focus light and identifies any abnormalities that may impact the success of the procedure.
LASIK co-management
If we determine that you are a good candidate for LASIK, we’ll refer you to a trusted ophthalmologist in the area who specializes in the procedure. We’re proud to collaborate with top-rated clinics to offer comprehensive pre- and post-operative care for refractive surgeries. One of the clinics we frequently partner with is TLC.
TLC is one of the largest providers of laser vision correction in North America, having performed over 2.2 million procedures to date. With over 25 years of experience, they’re a trusted name in the industry, offering the latest FDA-approved LASIK technology and a nationwide network of locations for your convenience.
At TLC, the entire LASIK procedure takes only 10 to 15 minutes to perform for both eyes, and you can expect to return to normal activity within 1-2 days.* In most cases, LASIK surgery has the potential to provide 20/20 vision or even better.
*Recovery time may take longer for PRK procedures. Your surgeon can advise you on the expected recovery time for your specific procedure. To learn more, visit the TLC website.
What happens after LASIK surgery?
Following LASIK surgery, your body needs time to heal and recover. True Focus Eye Care offers post-operative care for LASIK and refractive eye surgery at our office in Port Richey, FL. We will schedule follow-up visits to examine your healing eyes and check your improving vision. During these visits, we will monitor any side effects and provide guidance on how you can ensure a thorough recovery.
Schedule a LASIK consultation
To schedule a LASIK consultation as part of your comprehensive eye exam, simply mention your interest in laser eye surgery when making your appointment. Our friendly staff is ready to help you explore your treatment options and find the best solution for your eyes. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a clearer vision.