LASIK Alternatives - LASEK and PRK in Omaha, Nebraska
LASEK and PRK from our office in West Omaha, Nebraska, are two types of refractive surgery that treat the same problems and use methods similar to LASIK. However, each of the three procedures is different and may offer slightly different risks and benefits, depending on the particular case of the patient considering the procedures.
Photo-refractive Keratectomy (PRK)
Like LASIK surgery, PRK is a type of refractive surgery that corrects visual defects by reshaping the cornea. In LASIK, a flap is created in the outer layer of the cornea with a small blade called a microkeratome, to allow the laser access to the inner tissue of the cornea. PRK at LaserVision Correction in Omaha, Nebraska involves a slightly different method of exposing the inner corneal tissue.
The same topical anesthetic eye drops that are used in LASIK are used in PRK at LaserVision Correction in Omaha, Nebraska. But unlike LASIK, during PRK, the surgeon completely removes the outer layer of corneal tissue with an ultraviolet laser.
After surgery, the patient must wear a bandage or special contact lenses to assist the proper regeneration of the corneal tissue. Though it takes three to five days for complete regrowth of the tissue, and visual acuity returns more slowly than with LASIK, the long-term improvements associated with LASIK and PRK are virtually identical.
Candidates for PRK in Omaha, Nebraska
PRK at LaserVision Correction in Omaha, Nebraska is often recommended for patients who:
- have corneas too thin for LASIK;
- have had a stable eye prescription for at least one year.
Dr. Schlichtemeier can help you determine if PRK from LaserVision Correction in Omaha, Nebraska is right for you.
LASEK
LASEK from LaserVision Correction in Nebraska is a procedure that is similar to both LASIK and PRK, but may offer some advantages over both for certain patients.
In PRK, the outer layer of the cornea is removed. In LASIK, a flap is created in the outer layer with a microkeratome. In LASEK from LaserVision Correction in Nebraska, the outer layer is loosened with an alcohol solution and moved aside. The cornea is then reshaped with the WaveLight® Allegretto laser, just as in PRK and LASIK. The flap is then moved back to its original position and used as a natural protective bandage.
LASEK surgery at LaserVision Correction in Nebraska does not completely remove the outer corneal layer, and the procedure may offer improved healing and reduced postoperative haze over PRK. LASEK may offer a greater margin of safety than LASIK for some patients, since use of the microkeratome is eliminated. LASEK surgery from LaserVision Correction in Nebraska can treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
Candidates for LASEK from LaserVision Correction in Nebraska
Patients who:
- have corneas too thin for LASIK;
- have had a stable eye prescription for at least one year.
If you think you might be a good candidate for LASEK or PRK from our office in West Omaha, Nebraska, contact us today.