Vision Correction Surgery Procedures at Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute
At the Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of advanced vision correction surgeries to help our patients achieve clear and precise vision. Our board-certified ophthalmologists and eye specialists are equipped with the latest technology and expertise to perform various vision correction procedures, including LASIK, Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA), and Clear Lens Extraction (CLE). In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into each of these procedures, discussing their benefits, processes, and what patients can expect during their journey to improved vision.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)
Overview
LASIK is one of the most popular and well-known vision correction surgeries. It is designed to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. LASIK works by reshaping the cornea to allow light entering the eye to be properly focused onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision.
Procedure
- Pre-Surgical Evaluation: Before the LASIK procedure, a thorough eye examination is conducted to determine the patient’s eye health and suitability for LASIK. This includes mapping the cornea, measuring pupil size, and assessing the refractive error.
- Preparation: On the day of the surgery, numbing eye drops are applied to ensure the patient is comfortable. A lid speculum is used to keep the eye open during the procedure.
- Creation of the Flap: A femtosecond laser or microkeratome is used to create a thin, hinged flap on the cornea. This flap is then lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
- Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser is used to precisely reshape the cornea by removing microscopic amounts of tissue. The laser is guided by a computer, ensuring accuracy based on the pre-surgical measurements.
- Repositioning the Flap: Once the cornea has been reshaped, the flap is gently repositioned back into place. It adheres naturally without the need for stitches.
Recovery and Results
- Immediate Post-Operative Care: Patients may experience some discomfort and blurred vision immediately after the procedure, which usually resolves within a few days. Protective shields may be provided to wear while sleeping to avoid accidental rubbing of the eyes.
- Follow-Up Visits: Multiple follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure the cornea is healing correctly.
- Long-Term Outcomes: Most patients achieve significant vision improvement within a day or two. It is common to experience some fluctuations in vision during the healing period. The final outcome is typically realized within a few months.
Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA)
Overview
Advanced Surface Ablation, also known as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), is another laser eye surgery used to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, ASA does not involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, it treats the surface of the cornea, making it a suitable option for patients with thinner corneas or those who are not ideal candidates for LASIK.
Procedure
- Pre-Surgical Evaluation: Similar to LASIK, a comprehensive eye examination is performed to evaluate the patient’s suitability for ASA. This includes corneal mapping and measuring refractive errors.
- Preparation: Numbing eye drops are applied, and the eye is kept open using a lid speculum.
- Removal of the Epithelium: The outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed using a brush, blade, laser, or alcohol solution.
- Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser is used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. The laser treatment is customized based on the patient’s specific refractive error.
- Healing Process: A protective contact lens is placed on the eye to facilitate the healing of the epithelium. This lens is usually worn for several days.
Recovery and Results
- Initial Healing Phase: The epithelium typically takes a few days to regenerate, during which patients may experience discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurred vision.
- Long-Term Healing: Vision gradually improves over several weeks, with the final results becoming apparent in a few months. Follow-up visits are essential to monitor the healing process.
- Outcomes: ASA provides excellent visual outcomes comparable to LASIK, with the added benefit of being suitable for patients with certain corneal conditions.
Clear Lens Extraction (CLE)
Overview
Clear Lens Extraction, also known as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), is a procedure designed to correct severe refractive errors and presbyopia (age-related loss of near vision). CLE involves removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to achieve clear vision.
Procedure
- Pre-Surgical Evaluation: A detailed eye examination is conducted to assess the patient’s eye health and determine the appropriate type of IOL to be used. Measurements of the eye’s length and curvature are taken to ensure the correct lens power is selected.
- Preparation: On the day of surgery, numbing eye drops are administered, and a small incision is made in the cornea.
- Lens Removal: The natural lens is carefully removed using ultrasound energy (phacoemulsification). This technique breaks the lens into small pieces, which are then gently suctioned out.
- IOL Implantation: An artificial lens is inserted into the same capsule that held the natural lens. The type of IOL used (monofocal, multifocal, or toric) is chosen based on the patient’s vision needs and lifestyle.
- Incision Closure: The small incision typically does not require stitches and heals on its own.
Recovery and Results
- Post-Operative Care: Patients may experience some discomfort and blurred vision immediately after the procedure. Eye drops are prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure the IOL is properly positioned.
- Visual Improvement: Many patients notice significant improvement in their vision within a few days. The final visual outcome is usually achieved within a few weeks.
- Long-Term Outcomes: CLE can provide clear vision at various distances, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Conclusion
At Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute, our commitment to patient care and advanced technology ensures that we provide the best possible outcomes for vision correction surgeries. Whether you are considering LASIK, Advanced Surface Ablation, or Clear Lens Extraction, our experienced team of ophthalmologists is here to guide you through every step of the process. We strive to deliver personalized care tailored to your specific needs, helping you achieve the clear, sharp vision you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter, clearer future.
