While it can be an excellent option for many people, LASIK eye surgery is not for everyone. In the event you are not a candidate for this procedure, you may wonder what your other options are—are you stuck with contact lenses and glasses for life? The good news is that there are other advanced vision enhancement options which can potentially eliminate the need for corrective lenses. Advanced Surface Ablation(ASA), also known as photo-refractive keratectomy (PRK), and Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) are two examples. Dr. Steven J. Dell and Dr. Divya M. Varu, leaders in laser vision correction, perform these procedures at our state-of-the-art practice.
ASA (or PRK) is a laser vision correction surgery that can help patients with thin or irregularly shaped corneas. In this approach, the laser light reshapes the surface of the cornea without creating a “flap” first. While downtime can be longer with ASA, this technique often provides excellent results that are virtually identical to LASIK.
Another option traditionally reserved for patients who are age 40 or above or showing early signs of cataracts is RLE. This method replaces the existing natural lens with an artificial lens, called an intraocular lens implant (IOL). This procedure can help to enhance near, far, and intermediate vision as well as to correct presbyopia, a common age-related condition that causes farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Every patient has unique needs and goals. Dr. Dell and Dr. Varu will customize a treatment plan designed to achieve the optimal result based on your singular requirements during your initial consultation. Our experienced eye care team welcomes questions, and if you need additional information we hope you’ll reach out to us.
