PRK, ICL, or Refractive Lens Exchange
PRK is an all laser procedure that preserves some of the corneal thickness for people who can’t have LASIK. ICL (implantable contact lens) is a more invasive surgical procedure that allows us to correct high levels of nearsightedness and astigmatism. RLE removes the contents of the natural lens and replace it with the artificial lens that will fully correct your vision, and may even be able to correct for vision at all distances.
How Does Epi-LASIK to PRK?
PRK differs from Lasik primarily due to the flap. In Lasik, a flap is created using a laser, in PRK, there is no flap, and the surface is just removed at the time of surgery. IN PRK, the surface grows back over a 4-7 day period after the procedure. A bandage contact lens is used to allow the healing to occur with minimal discomfort.
Why Would I Get Epi-lasik to PRK Surgery Rather Than Conventional LASIK?
- There is less dry eye with Epi-LASIK to PRK.
- Epi-LASIK to PRK may be more suitable for thinner corneas. Patients with thinner corneas or less cornea tissue appear to have less likelihood of complications with Epi-LASIK to PRK, because this method removes much less tissue.
Refractive Lens Exchange
As we age, so do our eyes. This natural aging process is called presbyopia, and occurs as the lens in our eye loses its flexibility. With the loss of flexibility, we also lose the ability to see or read things up close. Generally, presbyopia occurs between the ages of 40 and 50. As we grow older, even those who have had perfect vision in the past will suffer from this condition. Although presbyopia cannot be cured, there is an alternative to glasses and contacts.
At Spector Eye Care, a Refractive Lens Exchange allows us to correct your vision when Lasik, PRK, or ICL are not good options.This is a particularly good option for people after the age of 40. When your quality of vision starts to interfere with the things you enjoy, you should discuss this procedure with your doctor.
How Is A Refractive Lens Exchange Different From LASIK?
Unlike LASIK, which concentrates on correcting the shape of the cornea, a Refractive Lens Exchange replaces the natural lens of your eye with an advanced multifocal or or EDOF Intraocular lens. get rid of accommodating intraocular lens (IOL). During the Refractive Lens Exchange procedure at Spector Eye Care, your doctor will make a small incision in the edge of the cornea. A small probe is inserted through the incision to remove the natural lens and insert the IOL in its place.
The goal of a Refractive Lens Exchange is to achieve best-corrected vision and reduce the need for contacts and glasses. An additional benefit to a Refractive Lens Exchange is preventive; for those who have not yet developed cataracts, removing the eye’s natural lens prevents the chance of developing cataracts later in life.
