The LASIK procedure has become increasingly popular due to enormous advances in technology with very small recovery periods following the surgery. Over 1 million procedures are performed each year in the United States, and that number will continue to grow as developing technologies improve the reliability, availability, and affordability of the procedure.
In general, the LASIK procedure is performed in two steps:
1) Making a Corneal Flap. First the doctor will use a painless, cool laser to lift a small flap made on the protective surface of the cornea.
2) Reshaping The Cornea. In the second step, an excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea and correct vision problems. Once this is complete, the protective flap is put back into place and heals quickly on its own.
The LASIK procedure has gone through many advancements, evolving from the older methods of ALK and PRK. ALK used a hand-held instrument called a microkeratome to perform the procedure, and could only correct nearsightedness. Because this surgery was done completely by hand there was room for a larger margin of error. PRK, the precursor to LASIK, appeared in 1987. This procedure does not involve making a corneal flap but uses an excimer laser to work directly on the outer surface of the cornea. PRK can correct nearsightedness, astigmatism, and some farsightedness. LASIK combines the use of the corneal flap from ALK with the excimer laser used in PRK. These new laser technologies now make it possible to correct a more extensive range of refractive error, including the elimination of using the less predictable performance of mechanical microkeratome and surgical blades to create the corneal flap.
Virginia Eye Consultants uses the latest laser technology available today in order to perform our blade-free LASIK procedures at maximum efficiency and predictability.
Our tenure as THE leading ophthalmic practice in Virginia has taught us the importance of enduring strong relationships with our patients by providing clinical excellence and state-of-the-art surgical eye care in a world class facility– but that's not all. A personable, understanding and friendly staff has been key to winning your reliance as our patient who trusts their precious sight to a team of caring, experienced, results-driven professionals.
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