Types of Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery is common among those with certain vision problems. If you are facing the possibility of needing one, you will want to know all about the different types. An ophthalmologist at Vision 3C Specialists in Floresville and San Antonio can advise you on the differences.

Lessons from An Eye Surgeon

There are three basic types of laser surgery your eye doctor will choose to perform, based on your specific condition. Those types are LASIK, LASEK, and PRK. The differences between the three types of help determine which type your doctor chooses for you.

The most common of the three types is LASIK, which stands for laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis. During this procedure, the eye doctor will cut a flap of the tissue from your cornea. The cut-out piece is made up of part of the stroma layer and all the epithelial, which is the layer of tissue on the front of your cornea. It measures between 100 and 180 microns in thickness. The next step in the LASIK eye procedure is to lift the flap of tissue off the cornea. A laser is then used for reshaping your cornea, and the flap of tissue is reattached. If the surgery is successful, this results in improved vision and, in some cases, completely eliminating the need to wear glasses.

LASEK eye surgery is a little different and is an acronym for laser epithelial keratomileusis. It involves weakening the tissue in your eyes, using an alcoholic solution. Doctors make an incision in order to lift a tissue flap. Using a laser your doctor will reshape your cornea, just as they would during LASIK. Many doctors prefer LASEK because it combines elements of LASIK and PRK surgeries. Short for photorefractive keratectomy, PRK involves removing tissue from your cornea, but in this case, it is not replaced. The tissue will grow back on its own.

Make an Appointment with An Ophthalmologist

If you are in Texas, be sure to make an appointment at Vision 3C Specialists in San Antonio or Floresville. You will meet with an eye surgeon that can answer all of your questions about laser eye surgery.