All laser treatments for visual errors involve reshaping the cornea, which is the clear window at the front of the eye.
LASIK
Laser Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is the most modern type of laser treatment for all types of visual error. This is a quick and painless procedure that gives a rapid visual improvement, allowing normal activities to be resumed as soon as possible. The treatment is carried out using local anaesthetic drops to numb the eye. No injections are needed.
In LASIK a flap is created on the surface of the cornea. This is then folded back and laser treatment is applied under the flap to permanently change the shape of the cornea. The flap is then repositioned allowing the eye to heal rapidly.
All Laser LASIK
Previously the corneal flap was created using a mechanical blade. The desire for a more predictable flap led to the development of the femtosecond laser. This is a laser that accurately and rapidly creates the flap in the cornea, without the need for a blade. A second laser is then used to shape the cornea under the flap. Mechanical blades are never used by the consultants at Eastern Laser Vision.
Surface treatments
Sometimes LASIK is not possible, usually due to a thinner than average cornea. In this circumstance it is usually possible to use the surface treatment known as LASEK that provides a very good visual result, although recovery generally takes longer.
Wavefront treatment
At Eastern Laser Vision we provide a comprehensive ophthalmic practice. This means we work with the patient to identify the very best procedure for their eyes and lifestyle. Although laser vision correction is very safe, some eyes have a more complex profile due to their pupil size, large refractive error, considerable higher order aberrations, or concerns about their night vision. In this circumstance wavefront-guided custom laser treatment is recommended, as it allows for the unique characteristics of individual eyes.
Implantable contact lens
For very high levels of long- or short-sight, laser treatment may not be possible. An implantable contact lens can be placed inside the eye in a simple painless procedure that uses anaesthetic drops to numb the eye in the same way as for laser treatment. This gives a rapid visual improvement and allows the eye to focus naturally for both near and distance.
Refractive lens exchange
This is most suitable for older people or where early cataract is already developing in the lens of the eye. The procedure is identical to a normal cataract operation. The natural lens inside the eye is removed and replaced by a clear implant lens that is tailored to the shape and size of the eye. Depending on individual requirements, a multifocal implant can be used that allows greater reading ability without glasses. Click here for more information
Cataract surgery
Eastern Laser Vision offers cataract surgery using topical anaesthesia (without injections) and small incision surgery. This makes the procedure as gentle as possible for the eye, allowing rapid recovery and optimum visual results
