LASIK & PRK
LASER VISION CORRECTION – LASIK AND PRK
Laser vision correction procedures can improve the eye’s natural focus by changing the shape of the cornea. Both of the most frequently used techniques, PRK and LASIK use the excimer laser to remove micro-thin layers of tissue from the cornea.
PRK
In PRK, the topmost “skin” layer of the cornea is mechanically removed using surgical instruments.
The laser is then focused on the newly exposed outer layers of the cornea, reshaping its curvature to correct the refractive error.
A thin layer is removed from the surface of the cornea
A laser reshapes the new cornea surface to correct visionLASIK
In LASIK, a cutting device called a microkeratome is used to cut a thin flap on the surface of the cornea. This thin flap is folded back, and the laser is used to remove thin layers of tissue from the exposed mid-corneal layers. The application of the laser energy is the same as in PRK or surface ablation. Following the sculpting or reshaping of the cornea, the flap is returned into position, and it adheres to the cornea without stitches.
The microkeratome removes a thin flap from the cornea
A laser reshapes the mid-cornea
The corneal flap is replacedTHE LATEST IN LASER VISION CORRECTION TECHNOLOGY
We use the VISX Star S4 System. The VISX STAR™ platform’s heritage of dependability and performance is well known. Our VISX Star S4 excimer laser has state of the art technology in optics, precision eye tracking, and sophisticated variable beam delivery combining to provide the most predictable precise laser vision correction possible. The S4 laser includes the latest updates in hardware and software, making sure every available improvement is implemented to expand the laser’s capabilities and accuracy. The STAR S4 from VISX has automatic alignment for both eyes, multiple treatments, Variable Spot Scanning, and 3D ActiveTrak.
Without a tracking device, laser eye correction requires patients to hold their eyes as still as possible during laser eye surgery. However, even a “still” eye makes minute, involuntary movements-including moving slightly with each breath. Now, the VISX 3D ActiveTrak follows the tiny motions of your eye instantaneously and automatically, in all three dimensions, repositioning the laser to ensure accuracy. The ActiveTrak System is the only laser system that can capture all three dimensions of intra-operative eye movements without the requirement of pupillary dilation.
Each person’s vision is unique. Now, with the WavePrint System, for the first time your doctor can develop a laser vision plan based on your personal vision needs. The WavePrint Map, a “fingerprint of your vision,” obtains a precise and detailed analysis of your entire optical system. Like a fingerprint, the corneas of your eyes are unique to you. The WaveScan™ measures the way light travels through your eye and compares it to the way light would travel through a “perfect” eye. This determines the refractive errors or aberrations of the eye. Dr. Tauber will use this information to plan a personalized treatment for you, or screen for those that shouldn’t have laser eye surgery.
The VISX Star S4 excimer laser removes the smallest amount of corneal tissue of any laser available. This gives shorter treatment times and greater flexibility to personalize the laser treatment resulting in precise consistently accurate outcomes every time.
WHAT’S NEXT
Not everyone is a candidate for laser vision correction. To find out if these procedures are right for you and to determine if you are a good candidate, you will need an initial or baseline evaluation by Dr. Tauber. If you wear contact lenses, it is a good idea to stop wearing them before your baseline evaluation and switch to wearing your glasses full-time. We will provide a thorough exam and consultation. Our goal is to achieve the best vision result for every patient. We screen for many medical conditions which can result in less than desired results and post-operative complications. Contact our office to learn if these exciting procedures can benefit you.
At Tauber Eye Center, we pride ourselves on providing superior service at an affordable price. Our surgical service fee includes the surgery, facility fee and all post-operative related visits for one year. Many of our patients take advantage of financing options that we offer through CareCredit to pay for their LASIK procedure. Options include a 12 month 0% interest plan as well as low monthly minimum extended payment plans.
