A lot of people out there don't know there are several kinds of LASIK eye surgery. While everyone isn't suited for a laser vision correction procedure, some folks' vision conditions may be ideal for one procedure over another. The main three types of LASIK are blade-free OptiLASIK, no-flap PRK LASIK and Monovision (sometimes called Lens Replacement). With the most advanced laser technology available, folks searching for clearer vision have extremely safe resources via top notch eye care specialists and surgeons.
OptiLASIK, a fully blade free form of laser vision correction, suits many patients whose corneal structure is strong enough to undergo flap creation. Created with a laser, the corneal flap exposes the cornea, supplying your eye surgeon with ability to painlessly and efficiently reshape it. Blade-free LASIK procedures eliminate complication risks tied to traditional LASIK and maximize patient comfort.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) expands the availability of LASIK eye surgery to those whose eyes cannot handle the traditional flap LASIK procedure. This may be due to several factors, such as:
- Unstable corneal thickness
- Corneal scar tissue
- Substantial risk for long-term or chronic eye dryness
- General corneal structure issues
PRK LASIK requires state-of-the-art technology such as the Allegretto Eye-Q Laser. The corneal cover is removed and allowed to heal for several days. Then, the Allegretto machine reshapes the cornea to complete the procedure.
Monovision, or Lens Replacement Surgery, uses Wavelight technology to refocus your eyes. This option is great for approved patients looking to correct near and/or distance vision issues. Many times, eye care specialists recommend a "test drive" in which temporary contacts are used for two weeks to ensure the patient's brain properly adjusts to the visual changes. If this test drive is successful, lens replacement will set your non-dominant eye to be focused for near vision while your dominant eye is refocused for distance vision. In many cases, monovision rarely applies to folks outside of the cataract-affected community.
