Laser Vision Correction
Laser vision correction surgery, commonly known as LASIK, involves making microscopic changes in the cornea to refocus the lens of your eye. Every surgery is different because every eye is unique, whether it’s the shape of the cornea, the lens or the overall length of the eye. Your vision may be nearsighted (myopic), farsighted (hyperopic), you may have an astigmatism or just need reading glasses (presbyopic). We use advanced laser technologies to reshape your eyes and bring your vision back to normal. Imagine your daily life, free from dependence on corrective lenses. Call us today to schedule a consultation so that we can determine if you are a candidate for laser vision correction: 206-622-2020.
LASIK in greater detail
LASIK is a surgical procedure intended to reduce a person’s dependency on glasses or contact lenses. In LASIK surgery, precise and controlled removal of corneal tissue by a special laser reshapes the cornea, changing its focusing power. See our LASIK FAQs page for more information on recovery times, on how to determine if you are a good candidate, and related information.
LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis and is a procedure that permanently changes the shape of the cornea, the clear covering of the front of the eye, using an excimer laser. A special device, a microkeratome, is used to cut a flap in the cornea. A hinge is left at one end of this flap. The flap is folded back revealing the stroma, the middle section of the cornea. Pulses from a computer-controlled laser vaporize a portion of the stroma and the flap is replaced.
Each vision correction situation requires a specific LASIK technique:
Farsightedness is treated by making the flat cornea steeper and removing tissues from the outside of the central optical zone of the cornea. This moves the point of focus from behind the retina to directly on the retina.
Nearsightedness is treated by making the steep cornea flatter and removing tissue from the center of the cornea. This moves the point of focus from in front of the retina to directly on the retina.
Astigmatism is treated by making the cornea more spherical, less oblong. This eliminates multiple focusing points within the eye and creates one point of focus on the retina. Astigmatism can also be treated during farsightedness procedures.
Are you a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery? LASIK is:
- a good option for individuals who wish to reduce or eliminate their dependence on contacts or glasses;
- only available for patients who are over 18 years of age;
- a good option for those who have had a stable eye prescription for over a year;
- may not be a viable option for individuals with health issues affecting their eyes;
- not a viable option for individuals who have signs of glaucoma or cataracts.
