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Common Lasik Myths / Concerns Explained

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Debunking Common Myths About LASIK Eye Surgery

Perhaps you’ve thought about laser eye surgery in the past, but have been put off after sifting through some of the myths and misinformation about the procedure. Or, perhaps you have a friend who told you she heard “this,” or he heard “that” about LASIK eye surgery. With all the myths and misinformation out there, how do you determine the truth? Don’t let yourself be misled by incorrect information. Get the facts about LASIK and let’s debunk these common LASIK myths.

Myth: LASIK is painful

It is completely natural to worry if there will be pain when undergoing any procedure. The good news, however, is that LASIK patients rarely report any pain. Drops are used to numb the eyes. Typically, you will feel some slight pressure at the start of the procedure, which will last a couple of minutes.

Myth: LASIK is such a new surgery that all the potential risks and side effects aren’t known yet

It is a common misconception that LASIK eye surgery is a new procedure. People fear this “new and unknown” operation. In fact, laser eye surgery was invented in the 1980s, with the first US procedure occurring in 1987.[i] This means that LASIK has been performed in the US for over 30 years! Moreover, the technology continues to improve, which means better results for you.

Myth: LASIK only works on nearsighted patients

Two factors have led to the prevalence of this myth. One, nearsightedness is one of the most common eye conditions, so of course, many LASIK patients are nearsighted. Two, when LASIK first came on the scene, it was only used to treat nearsightedness (also called “myopia”). Today, LASIK eye surgery can treat much more than just nearsightedness, including other refractive errors such as farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism.

Myth: You will never need glasses again after having LASIK

This myth is a yes and no. After LASIK, you will most likely be able to ditch your glasses! According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 8 out of 10 people who undergo LASIK eye surgery no longer need glasses or contact lenses for most of their activities.[ii] However, you may still need your glasses for certain activities (like driving at night or reading). Additionally, having undergone LASIK will not change the fact that your eyes will continue to age naturally, which may mean a change in vision down the road.

Myth: You can go blind from LASIK

The fear of going blind is very common, but it is extremely uncommon to experience vision loss due to laser eye surgery. There has never been a reported case of a patient going blind from LASIK.[iii] LASIK is a safe and effective procedure when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon.

Myth: The treatment time is very long

Most patients are surprised to find out how quickly the procedure is over, often in as little as 15 minutes. Recovery time is also not typically a lengthy process. People can go home immediately after the procedure and back to their everyday schedule within 24 hours. However, it is important to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure proper healing and optimal results.

Myth: LASIK is too expensive for most people to afford

Don’t write off LASIK as too expensive before doing some research. There are a variety of payment options to look into:

  1. Insurance savings: TLC Laser Eye Centers partners with most vision and health insurance companies to give members savings on LASIK.
  2. Health Savings Accounts (HSA): These accounts can be used to pay for elective services like LASIK and other laser eye surgeries.
  3. Flexible Spending Account (FSA): If you have an FSA, you may be able to use that money toward LASIK eye surgery.
  4. Financing options: Many providers offer financing options to make LASIK more affordable. TLC Laser Eye Centers works with CareCredit to offer patients attractive financing options that make your LASIK procedure as affordable as possible.

Myth: You’re too old to get LASIK

You may assume you’re too old to bother getting laser eye surgery, or that your eyes are “too far gone.” In fact, there is no age limit for receiving LASIK! Even patients in their 60s experience clearer vision with laser eye surgery. However, it is important to consult with a LASIK specialist to determine if you’re a good candidate for LASIK based on your individual eye health and other factors.

Myth: LASIK can’t treat astigmatism

Astigmatism is a common eye condition that results in a distortion of the image on the retina of the eye due to an imperfection in the curvature of the cornea. This can make it difficult to treat with glasses or contact lenses. The good news is that LASIK eye surgery treats common refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK can effectively correct astigmatism by reshaping the cornea to improve the way light enters the eye.

Are you ready to move past the myths and get the facts about LASIK eye surgery? Schedule a free consultation with a LASIK specialist at a TLC Laser Eye Center location near you.

  1. History of Refractive Surgery. (2013). Eyedoctornetwork.org. Retrieved from http://www.eyedoctornetwork.org/history-of-refractive-surgery.htm
  2. Mayo Clinic staff. (2019). LASIK eye surgery. MayoClinic.org. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774
  3. American Refractive Surgery Council. (2019). LASIK Complication Rate: The Latest Facts and Stats You Should Know. Americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org. Retrieved from https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/lasik-complication-rate-latest-facts/

Expanding on the Article:

Laser eye surgery, known as LASIK, has revolutionized vision correction for millions of people worldwide. However, despite its widespread success, there are still common myths and misconceptions surrounding the procedure that can deter potential candidates from exploring this life-changing option. In this article, we will delve deeper into these myths and provide accurate information to help you make an informed decision about LASIK eye surgery.

One prevailing myth suggests that LASIK is a painful procedure. It is understandable that individuals may have concerns about experiencing discomfort during any medical intervention. However, LASIK patients typically report minimal to no pain. The eyes are numbed with drops before the surgery, and any sensations felt during the procedure are often described as slight pressure, which lasts only a few minutes.

Another myth revolves around the perception that LASIK is a relatively new and untested procedure, leading to concerns about unknown risks and side effects. Contrary to this belief, LASIK has been performed for over 30 years since its invention in the 1980s. The technology and techniques have evolved significantly during this time, making LASIK a well-established and highly refined surgical option. Continuous advancements in laser technology and surgical techniques contribute to improved outcomes and enhanced safety for patients.

One misconception suggests that LASIK is exclusively effective for nearsightedness. This myth persists due to two main factors. Firstly, nearsightedness is a prevalent refractive error, and many individuals seeking vision correction are nearsighted. Secondly, when LASIK was initially introduced, it primarily targeted nearsightedness. However, LASIK has advanced to address various refractive errors, including farsightedness, astigmatism, and even a combination of these conditions. Therefore, LASIK offers a comprehensive solution for a wide range of visual impairments.

A commonly heard myth asserts that LASIK eliminates the need for glasses altogether. While it is true that the majority of LASIK patients experience significant improvements in their vision and reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses, it does not guarantee absolute freedom from corrective eyewear. According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 80% of LASIK patients achieve clear vision without glasses for most activities. However, certain circumstances, such as driving at night or engaging in detailed close-up work, may still require the use of glasses. Additionally, it is essential to remember that aging and other natural factors can affect vision over time, which may necessitate the use of glasses or additional vision correction methods in the future.

One of the most common concerns surrounding LASIK is the fear of going blind as a result of the procedure. It is crucial to emphasize that the risk of vision loss due to LASIK is extremely rare. In fact, there has never been a reported case of a patient going blind from LASIK. LASIK is a meticulously performed surgery by skilled and experienced surgeons who prioritize patient safety and carefully evaluate eligibility criteria. By adhering to rigorous pre-operative assessments and post-operative care, the risk of adverse outcomes is significantly minimized.

Another myth implies that LASIK procedures are time-consuming and require lengthy recovery periods. Contrary to this misconception, LASIK is a relatively quick procedure, often completed in as little as 15 minutes per eye. Patients can typically return home immediately after the surgery and resume their daily activities within 24 hours. However, it is essential to follow the post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure proper healing and optimize the recovery process.

Affordability is a significant consideration for many individuals contemplating LASIK. However, assuming LASIK is too expensive without conducting thorough research may lead to missed opportunities. Various payment options exist to make LASIK more accessible. Some vision and health insurance companies partner with LASIK providers to offer savings to their members. Additionally, Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) can often be utilized to cover LASIK expenses. Furthermore, many LASIK providers offer financing options, such as attractive payment plans or partnerships with third-party financing companies, making LASIK more affordable for a broader range of individuals.

Age should not be a deterrent when considering LASIK. Another myth suggests that individuals are too old to benefit from laser eye surgery. However, there is no specific age limit for LASIK candidacy. Even patients in their 60s can experience significant improvements in vision through LASIK. The suitability for LASIK depends on several factors, such as overall eye health and stability of the prescription. Consulting with a LASIK specialist can help determine whether an individual is a good candidate for the procedure, regardless of their age.

Lastly, some individuals believe that LASIK cannot effectively treat astigmatism. Astigmatism is a common refractive error characterized by an irregular curvature of the cornea, resulting in distorted vision. The good news is that LASIK is a versatile procedure that can effectively correct astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea using laser technology, LASIK can address the irregularities and restore clearer vision for individuals with astigmatism.

In conclusion, LASIK eye surgery has debunked many myths and misconceptions over the years, emerging as a safe, effective, and widely practiced procedure for vision correction. Understanding the facts is essential in making an informed decision about LASIK. By dispelling these common myths, individuals can confidently explore the potential benefits of LASIK eye surgery. Schedule a free consultation with a LASIK specialist at a reputable TLC Laser Eye Center near you to gather accurate information and determine the best course of action for your vision correction needs.

Top 7 Reasons to Choose TLC for Your LASIK Procedure

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

If you’ve made the decision to pursue LASIK eye surgery, you are probably excited to take the next step toward your best vision without full time dependence on glasses and contacts. You may have researched the details on LASIK surgery itself, but what about LASIK providers? It is important to research your providers in order to find one that you feel comfortable with. Read on to learn more about what to look for in a provider, and why TLC Laser Eye Centers is your optimum LASIK provider!

Reason #1: Experienced LASIK Surgeons

The Laser eye center that you choose should only work with expert surgeons who are up-to-date on current trends and technologies in the field of LASIK eye surgery. Often, leading LASIK surgeons will maintain their expertise by seeking additional clinical training and certifications, such as those issued by American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO). Knowledgeable LASIK surgeons and their clinical teams will also diligently screen patients for candidacies, and only accept patients who meet all the qualifications required for the procedure.

The LASIK specialists at TLC Laser Eye Centers have performed over 2.3 million LASIK procedures. Not only do the surgeons have plenty of experiences, but also over 7,000 eye doctors have chosen TLC Laser Eye Centers for their own LASIK surgeries, demonstrating that TLC Laser Eye Centers is a trusted provider with experienced, skilled LASIK surgeons.

Reason #2: The Latest Laser Technologies

Medical technologies are always changing and improving, and a well-informed provider carefully monitors these LASIK advancements and is constantly making clinical decisions on adapting new technologies to deliver the best possible patient outcomes.

TLC Laser Eye Centers are passionate about using the latest laser technologies to care for our LASIK patients. Using modern LASIK, or bladeless LASIK, is just one example of how we provide personalized, custom LASIK treatments for each individual who comes to TLC Laser Eye Centers.

In addition to modern LASIK, TLC Laser Eye Centers also offer other vision correction procedures in order to match the best technology to each patient, including Contoura Vision and PRK. Having access to advanced patient testing instruments and multiple vision correction surgical technologies, our surgeons can determine the most suitable vision correction option to enhance our patients’ vision. At TLC Laser Eye Centers, we are committed to quality care and patient safety.

Reason #3: Affordable LASIK

There is a range of costs when you compare potential LASIK providers. Remember that the least expensive provider won’t necessarily be the best. In addition, many providers also offer financing to help achieve your goal of laser vision correction. It’s important to weigh all your considerations when you evaluate different LASIK centers. Your chosen provider should have the right surgeon and the right equipment for you to help make your LASIK dreams a reality.

TLC Laser Eye Centers offers LASIK financing options to help meet your needs. We work with insurance plans and companies to offer LASIK discounts to its members and employees. You may also be able to use funds from a Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account toward your LASIK eye surgery.

Reason #4: Referrals

When searching for any type of provider, you can’t underestimate the value of referrals from trusted friends or family. LASIK surgery is very popular; chances are you know one or several people who have had LASIK and are happy with their results. In addition to inquiring with your eye doctors, don’t forget to ask your family or friends about their experiences and which provider they recommend!

LASIK referral

Reason #5: Location

You need a provider that is close by. After all, it may not be most ideal to travel long distances before and after your quick LASIK procedure. With  convenient, nationwide locations, you can find a TLC Laser Eye Center near you!

Reason #6: Commitment

Find a provider who is committed to you and your vision—not just now, but in the future as well. Your visual needs may change with time, if you were to need a retreatment or an enhancement down the road, you want to know that your provider will be available.

With the TLC Lifetime Commitment program, you can be sure that TLC Laser Eye Centers will stand by you. We are dedicated to helping you maintain the best possible vision throughout your lifetime.

Reason #7: A Solid Partner

At TLC Laser Centers, we know that no one is more familiar with your eye health than your own eye doctor. That’s why TLC affiliated Doctors of Optometry will be an important part of your LASIK team. These optometric physicians partner with TLC Laser Centers because of our record of safety and patient satisfaction, as well as our years of experience in the field. By partnering with optometrists across the country, not only can we help you make the best decisions about your LASIK procedure, but we are also in the best position to care for you, both before and after your laser eye surgery.

If you’d like to learn more about the TLC commitment to vision, schedule a free LASIK consultation at a location near you.

Schedule a FREE LASIK Consultation Today

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Is the Cost of LASIK Different Based on Where I Live?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

There are many factors to consider when evaluating the cost of LASIK eye surgery, and understanding those factors can help you make an informed decision on choosing the LASIK provider that’s right for your needs. It’s not unusual to see LASIK centers offering very different price quotes. Reputable laser eye surgery providers will make pricing clear, so you understand all the various elements that are included in the pricing. This post takes a closer look at the cost of laser eye surgery, and how your location may impact that cost.

Understanding LASIK Cost Factors

To comprehend LASIK costs, consider several key factors beyond location. The surgeon you choose and the specific type of laser eye surgery procedure contribute to the overall price. Procedures like Custom Wavefront and Bladeless LASIK may have higher costs but come with distinct benefits. Additionally, the geographical area where you undergo laser eye surgery plays a significant role in determining the cost.

LASIK cost based on location
  • Cost of Living -The cost of living in your region directly affects the overall LASIK expenses. Higher basic living costs, including rent, gasoline, and utilities, can contribute to an increase in LASIK prices.
  • Business Operating Costs – Regions with a lower cost of living may offer more affordable LASIK prices, but areas with a higher cost of living can drive up the operating costs for LASIK providers, leading to regional variations in prices.
  • LASIK Surgeon Costs – Surgeon fees in metropolitan areas with a higher cost of living may slightly elevate the average LASIK price. Conversely, choosing LASIK in a community with a lower cost of living may result in a more budget-friendly option.

Choosing a Reputable LASIK Provider

Regardless of your location, a trustworthy LASIK surgeon ensures transparency in cost breakdown. Conduct thorough research and request an itemized list detailing the components covered in your LASIK procedure cost. This includes information on the laser technology utilized, post-operative care, and any potential post-surgery enhancements.

Ready to delve into the specifics of LASIK costs in your area? Schedule a free consultation at your local TLC Laser Eye Center. Seize this opportunity to gain comprehensive insights into LASIK, including the associated costs and all aspects of the procedure.

Schedule a FREE LASIK Consultation Today

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Is Age a Barrier for LASIK?

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Good news! Age doesn’t have to be a barrier to have LASIK. While the typical LASIK patient falls between 20 and 45 years old, the FDA only requires candidates to be at least 18. As long as your vision prescription has stabilized for at least a year, your eyes are healthy, and you’re in good overall health, you may be a good candidate for LASIK even after 50.

Why There’s No Upper Age Limit on LASIK

The FDA stipulates that the minimum age for LASIK candidates is 18, as our eyes and prescriptions may still undergo frequent changes before that age. However, there’s no upper age limit for LASIK, and the decision to undergo the procedure is based on individual health and vision factors.

LASIK Monovision

Here are some things to consider for LASIK after 50:

  • Presbyopia: After 45, many people experience near vision issues due to presbyopia. While LASIK isn’t always the best solution for presbyopia, TLC offers other vision correction technologies like Monovision.
  • Cataracts: Cataracts, which often develop after 55, can significantly impact vision. In most cases, cataract surgery is the preferred treatment option for older patients with vision problems.
  • Health conditions: Certain health conditions may impact your candidacy for LASIK. However, don’t rule it out based on health alone. Discuss your individual situation with a TLC LASIK specialist to determine if it’s a safe and effective option for you.

Basic LASIK Candidacy Requirements:

For LASIK candidacy, a stable vision prescription for at least one year, the absence of eye diseases, and good overall health are essential. It’s important to note that good overall health doesn’t have to mean perfect health, and consulting with a LASIK specialist is the best way to understand how laser eye surgery aligns with various health needs.

Regardless of age, if you’re curious about LASIK eye surgery’s suitability for your vision health needs, schedule a free consultation with a TLC LASIK specialist. Determine your candidacy and explore the potential benefits of laser eye surgery tailored to your unique requirements.

Ready to ditch your glasses and contacts for good? Schedule a free consultation with TLC LASIK specialists today! We’ll assess your vision health, discuss your options, and help you find the perfect solution for clear vision in your golden years.

Schedule a FREE LASIK Consultation Today

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Discover the History of LASIK

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Vision problems have long been a fact of life for humans, and for centuries glasses (and later, contact lenses) were the only solution available to most people. The first glasses were developed in the 13th century, the first contacts were created in 1888, and it wasn’t until the 1970s that procedures like LASIK eye surgery began to take shape. LASIK technology is always advancing, and the history of laser eye surgery goes a long way toward explaining why people with vision problems have so many potential treatment options today.

Laser Eye Surgery Research in the 1970s

The story of LASIK begins long before the first procedure was performed, in the research halls of major universities and businesses. Throughout the late 1970s, a procedure called Radial Keratotomy (RK), which shares similarities with LASIK, was performed in the United States. A major breakthrough came in 1980, when IBM researcher Rangaswamy Srinivasan discovered that the excimer laser – initially developed for computer chip production – was able to remove living tissue without causing thermal damage. Surgeon Steven Trokel of Columbia University published a key study in 1985 detailing the effectiveness of the excimer laser for RK surgery, which helped pave the way for LASIK eye surgery.

LASIK history

The First Laser Vision Correction Procedure (1988)

The first laser vision correction procedure took place in 1988, when a 60-year old woman with a serious vision problem allowed surgeon Marguerite McDonald to perform the first photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) procedure on her damaged eye. PRK surgery was approved by Canada in 1991, approved by the US in 1995, and remains in use to this day.

The Development of LASIK Eye Surgery

While the results of the first PRK surgery helped allow the procedure to reach the wider market, European eye doctors Ioannis Pallikaris and Lucio Burrato were busy working on ways to optimize laser eye surgery. They made the discovery that creating a “flap” in the cornea, rather than treating the surface, helped to minimize post-surgery discomfort and speed up the healing process. The flap allows surgeons to address vision problems at the source, and works as a natural bandage to help with the healing process. This was the beginning of LASIK eye surgery as we know it today, and LASIK was approved for use in the United States in 1999.

Refining LASIK and Creating New Procedures

In the present day, LASIK eye surgery is still on a path of innovation, as scientists and eye doctors continue to develop new technology. Patients can now choose unique options like Bladeless LASIK, which relies on a laser to create the flap, rather than a blade. The excimer laser remains a key part of laser eye surgery, and continues to be optimized over time.

Advances in the technology used to map the eye before surgery have also been a big part of the LASIK story, with procedures like Custom LASIK and Topography-Guided LASIK providing more precise data than ever to help plan your procedure. The detailed data helps surgeons customize your procedure to deliver the best results for your unique vision care needs. LASIK patients truly now have more options than ever before.

If the history of laser eye surgery tells us anything, it’s to expect LASIK technology to continue evolving. Procedures like Bladeless “all-laser” LASIK , Topography-Guided LASIK, and Custom LASIK each offer unique benefits, but none of it would have been possible without the many people who contributed to the development of laser eye surgery.

If you are considering LASIK eye surgery for your vision correction, start with a Free Consultation at a local TLC Laser Eye Center near you. It’s a great opportunity to meet with our caring staff and get all your questions answered.

LASIK vs. Ortho-K: A Comprehensive Comparison

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

When considering vision correction methods, LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) emerge as distinct options, each with unique approaches and target conditions. Dive into this detailed LASIK vs. Ortho-K comparison for an insightful overview:

What is LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)?

Procedure:

  • Flap Creation: A thin corneal flap is crafted using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser.
  • Corneal Reshaping: The flap is lifted, and the underlying cornea is reshaped with an excimer laser.

Recovery Time:

  • Quick Visual Recovery: Patients often experience rapid improvement within a day or two.
  • Stabilization: Full vision stabilization may take a few weeks.

Postoperative Discomfort:

  • Mild Discomfort: Minimal discomfort during the initial hours, with reduced sensitivity to light.

Suitability:

Advantages and disadvantages of LASIK:

Advantages:

  • Rapid Visual Improvement: Immediate enhancement in vision.
  • Minimal Discomfort: Usually, minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.

Disadvantages:

  • Flap-Related Complications: Rare, but potential complications include flap-related issues.
  • Dry Eyes: Some experience temporary dry eyes.

What is Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)?

Procedure:

  • Contact Lens Wear: Specially designed gas-permeable lenses worn overnight.

Corneal Reshaping:

  • Recovery Time: Gradual improvement with full stabilization over a few weeks.

Postoperative Discomfort:

  • Mild Discomfort: Some may experience mild discomfort during adaptation.

Suitability:

  • Common Refractive Errors: Primarily for myopia control and mild to moderate myopia.
  • Presbyopia: Used for presbyopia, often combined with monovision.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Orthokeratology:

Advantages:

  • Non-Surgical: Reshapes the cornea without surgery.
  • Daytime Freedom: Clear vision during the day without glasses.

Disadvantages:

  • Temporary Effects: Requires consistent lens wear for sustained results.
  • Risk of Infection: Proper hygiene crucial to prevent infections.
  • Vision Instability: Changes through the day based on usage frequency.
  • Comfort: May be challenging to sleep with rigid lenses.

Choosing Between LASIK and Ortho-K:

  • Surgical Preference: Non-surgical preference may lead to Ortho-K.
  • Reversibility: Ortho-K is reversible; LASIK is permanent.
  • Corneal Thickness: If corneal thickness is a concern, Ortho-K may be safer.

Both LASIK and Ortho-K are effective, and the choice depends on individual factors, preferences, and refractive error. Consult with an experienced eye care professional to determine the most suitable method for your unique needs and circumstances.

LASIK OD

LASIK Eye Surgery Technology: Exploring Wavelight Laser, Contoura Vision, and More

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Table of Content

Understanding LASIK Technology
Wavelight LASIK Laser: Advancing Vision Precision
Contoura Vision System: Personalized Precision
Exploring Visx vs. Wavelight Laser Technology for LASIK: A Comprehensive Comparison
Comparing LASIK Eye Surgery Technology

Discover the latest in LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) surgery technology as of November 2023. LASIK has transformed ophthalmology globally, offering a life-changing solution for refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. This article delves into the intricacies of LASIK technology, spotlighting advancements such as the Wavelight laser and Contoura Vision. Stay informed about the cutting-edge developments shaping the world of vision correction.

Understanding LASIK Technology

LASIK surgery reshapes the cornea to enhance vision, leveraging lasers for precise adjustments. The Wavelight laser and Contoura Vision system represent pivotal innovations driving the success of LASIK. Explore the principles behind these technologies and their impact on refractive error correction.

Modern LASIK Technology

Wavelight LASIK Laser: Advancing Vision Precision

Uncover the advancements of Wavelight lasers, employing wavefront-optimized technology for refined treatments. Unlike traditional LASIK, these lasers focus on preserving the corneal asphericity, reducing higher-order aberrations (HOA). Learn how Wavelight lasers enhance visual outcomes by minimizing visual symptoms associated with conventional refractive surgery.

Contoura Vision System: Personalized Precision

A revolutionary LASIK technology developed by Alcon. This system integrates corneal topography and wavefront-guided technology, creating a comprehensive 3D map of the eye. Discover how Contoura Vision addresses not only refractive errors but also subtle corneal irregularities, leading to sharper, clearer vision and reduced instances of halos and glare.

Exploring Visx vs. Wavelight Laser Technology for LASIK: A Comprehensive Comparison

Navigate the differences between Wavelight and Visx lasers, two prominent brands in LASIK surgery. Delve into aspects such as wavefront technology, eye tracking systems, treatment speed, FDA approval, and treatment capabilities to make informed decisions based on individual preferences and needs.

Wavefront Technology Unveiled:

Wavelight: The Wavelight laser integrates advanced wavefront-optimized technology, aiming to preserve the corneal asphericity. By delivering precise laser energy to the corneal periphery, it effectively reduces higher-order aberrations, enhancing the correction of refractive errors.

Visx: In contrast, Visx lasers offer a choice between “standard” and wavefront-guided technology. This versatility allows for a customized LASIK procedure, addressing not only basic refractive errors but also higher-order aberrations, leading to superior visual outcomes.

Eye Tracking Precision:

Wavelight: Equipped with sophisticated eye-tracking systems, Wavelight lasers monitor the eye’s movements in real-time during LASIK surgery. This ensures accurate and consistent treatment, even if the eye experiences slight shifts.

Visx: Visx lasers also incorporate advanced eye-tracking technology to follow the eye’s movements, maintaining precision throughout the LASIK procedure. The accuracy of this system is pivotal for achieving optimal results.

Treatment Speed and Efficiency:

Wavelight: Renowned for their fast treatment times, Wavelight lasers perform high-speed laser ablation, minimizing exposure time. This not only enhances patient comfort but also reduces the risk of potential corneal dehydration or other factors affecting the procedure.

Visx: Designed for efficiency, Visx lasers contribute to quick and streamlined treatments. The speed of the laser ablation process is a key factor in enhancing patient comfort and shortening the overall duration of the LASIK procedure.

FDA Approval and Reputation:

Wavelight: Specific models like the EX500 from Wavelight have obtained FDA approval for LASIK surgery. Wavelight lasers are recognized for their precision and customization capabilities, contributing to a positive reputation.

Visx: With a long history of use in LASIK and FDA approval, Visx lasers have established themselves as a well-known and trusted brand, having been employed in numerous successful LASIK procedures worldwide.

Treatment Capabilities:

Wavelight: Wavelight lasers excel in treating a diverse range of refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The incorporation of wavefront-guided technology allows for comprehensive vision correction.

Visx: Known for their versatility, Visx lasers effectively address various refractive errors. The technology within Visx systems caters to both common refractive issues and higher-order aberrations, resulting in enhanced visual quality.

Both Wavelight and Visx lasers enjoy a solid reputation in LASIK surgery. Choosing between them hinges on factors such as the surgeon’s preference, laser model specifics, and individual patient needs. For those contemplating LASIK, consulting with eye care professionals is crucial to determine the most suitable technology for unique vision correction requirements. Make an informed decision by exploring these laser technologies in detail and understanding their distinct advantages.

Comparing LASIK Eye Surgery Technology

Femtosecond Lasers:

1. IntraLase iFS (now part of Johnson & Johnson Vision): IntraLase iFS, a cutting-edge femtosecond laser system, plays a crucial role in creating corneal flaps during LASIK surgery. With its high precision and customization features, this laser contributes significantly to enhanced safety and efficacy.
2. Alcon FS200: The Alcon FS200 is another noteworthy femtosecond laser system dedicated to crafting corneal flaps. Its utilization of low pulse energy ensures precise corneal flap creation, emphasizing accuracy in LASIK procedures.
3. Zeiss VisuMax:Recognized for its precision, the VisuMax femtosecond laser stands out in corneal flap creation for LASIK surgery. Operating with extremely short pulses of laser light, it offers a bladeless and precise approach to corneal flap creation, contributing to optimal surgical outcomes.

Excimer Lasers:

1. Alcon’s Contoura Vision:Alcon’s Contoura Vision integrates corneal topography and advanced wavefront-guided technology, providing highly customized LASIK treatments. This technology addresses both common refractive errors and higher-order aberrations, ultimately leading to improved visual outcomes.
2. Wavelight EX500:Renowned for its speed and accuracy, the Wavelight EX500 excimer laser is equipped with advanced eye-tracking and wavefront-optimized technology. Designed to deliver efficient and highly personalized LASIK treatments, it aims to enhance the overall patient experience.
3. VISX Excimer Lasers:Widely recognized for their reliability, VISX excimer lasers are extensively used in LASIK surgery. These lasers incorporate wavefront-guided technology to customize treatments based on the unique characteristics of each patient’s eyes, ensuring personalized and effective vision correction.
4. Nidek EC-5000:The Nidek EC-5000 excimer laser system, employed in LASIK surgery, offers precision and versatility in treating various refractive errors. With a focus on accuracy, this laser system contributes to successful and customized vision correction outcomes.

In navigating the landscape of LASIK technology, understanding the nuances of femtosecond and excimer lasers is vital. Each system brings its unique advantages, contributing to the precision and customization essential for optimal LASIK outcomes. For those considering LASIK, consulting with experienced eye care professionals can help determine the most suitable technology for individual vision correction needs. Stay informed about these advanced technologies to make well-informed decisions about your LASIK journey.

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20-20-20 Rule: Eye Care in Today’s Technology

Posted on by TLC Laser Eye Centers

Digital screens are everywhere. We work with screens, play with screens, and look at screens while we’re waiting in line. All of that screen-time comes with potential downsides, and may take a toll on our eyes over time. To try to minimize the negative effects and digital eye strain of extensive time looking at screens, many eye doctors suggest using the 20-20-20 rule as part of your eye health care. The catchy name makes it easy to remember, and ahead we’ll dive into the details of exactly how the 20-20-20 rule works.

Eye Care and Digital Eye Strain

What is the 20-20-20 rule?

Whether you’re using a phone, computer, tablet or watching TV, the idea behind the 20-20-20 rule is actually very simple: every 20 minutes that you’re looking at a screen, take a break and stare at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. That’s it. You don’t have to worry about walking off the distance, or pulling out a tape measure to make sure that the object is exactly 20 feet away. The idea is to pick an object that is close to 20 feet away.

The trick is making sure that you remember to do it every 20 minutes when you’re using a digital screen, and making sure that you look at the object for at least 20 seconds. This is a rule that you can follow almost anywhere, whether using a screen for productivity or enjoyment.

What about activities that don’t require a screen?

Screen time isn’t the only activity that can cause eye strain, and the 20-20-20 rule may apply in other situations, as well. If you’re reading a paper book, writing, or doing work that requires you to focus your vision consistently on very small details, then it may also be a good idea to give your eyes a rest using the 20-20-20 rule. No matter what activity you’re doing, the basics behind the 20-20-20 rule remain the same when considering your eye health care. Take a break every 20 minutes to look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Do I really have to do it every 20 minutes?

When you’re working, reading, or watching a video, it’s easy to get caught up in what you’re doing. But yes, it’s a good idea to stay on schedule with the 20-20-20 rule whenever possible. The good news is that most of the devices you’ll be using will also have built in timers you can use to set reminders. Setting 20-20-20 reminders on your computer and phone is a great way to stay on track, and eventually taking those breaks simply becomes a habit.

Why follow the 20-20-20 rule?

Humans normally blink about 15 times per minute, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. However, when using a computer or other digital screens, we may only blink about one-third as often, which can lead to eye strain.

Digital eye strain caused by extensive screen use may be connected to certain vision problems, and can cause unpleasant symptoms like dry eyes, headache, light sensitivity, and eye fatigue. So in addition to potentially helping with long-term eye health issues, the 20-20-20 rule can also be an easy way to help limit some of the most common symptoms that come with extensive digital screen time.

If you have any questions about the 20-20-20 rule, how it works, or how it applies to you, speak with your eye health care provider to learn more. If you don’t have an eye doctor, use our doctor search to find a TLC Affiliate Eye Doctor near you. It’s a small step to take, and it may make a big difference.

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