Laser Vision Correction Options

Laser Vision Correction Procedures

Laser vision correction is one of the most exciting technological advances in the history of eye care. There are two ways of utilizing this extraordinary technology, PRK and LASIK. Both procedures are performed by an ophthalmologist specializing in laser vision correction.

iLASIK

At Rocky Mountain Ophthalmology, LASIK is the most frequently used procedure for laser vision correction. LASIK stands for Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. A wide range of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism can be corrected by the LASIK procedure. It is a delicate surgical procedure that allows for a very predictable healing response. Your vision stabilizes rapidly, and you can expect to have little or no discomfort following LASIK. Most patients have driving vision within 24 hours of treatment.

iLASIK is the fully customized, 100% blade-free approach to vision correction. Prior to the availability of iLASIK, surgeons created the corneal flap with an instrument called a microkeratome, an oscillating, hand-held steel blade.  Click here to learn more about iLASIK

When other vision centers advertise “too good to be true” low prices, they are most likely using an outdated technology, instead of state-of-the art iLASIK. The result is simply vision that isn’t quite as good.

A complimentary consultation will determine if LASIK is the right treatment for your eyes.

Custom PRK (Surface Ablation)

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is the same laser procedure as LASIK. It differs, however, in how the cornea is prepared for the laser treatment. With PRK, surface cells are removed and the laser is applied. With LASIK, a corneal flap is created by a femtosecond laser such as IntraLase®.

Today, PRK is commonly referred to as "surface ablation," meaning a laser procedure that is applied to the surface of the cornea. There are two main surface ablation techniques available which differ in the way the corneal epithelium is managed, LASEK and epi-LASIK.

WHEN IS PRK THE TREATMENT OF CHOICE INSTEAD OF LASIK?

1. When the cornea is too thin for LASIK.
2. When a pre-existing problem is present on the cornea which can be eliminated with PRK and result in better vision than  LASIK.
3. When there is a structural abnormality in the cornea that makes LASIK unsafe.

Rocky Mountain Ophthalmology’s world-class surgeon, Dr. Kevin H. Cuevas, is committed to providing you with the most proven, approved technology available today. Our goal is to help you to achieve your best possible vision in a safe, comfortable environment.

Other Options

Some people learn they are deemed ineligible for any kind of laser vision correction. Fortunately, there are other options such as Refractive Lens Exchanges and Intraocular Collamer Lenses (ICL). Other patients simply need vision correction to accomodate their aging eyes. After all, we all need some help with near vision as we age past 40 or so.