LIST OF SERVICES & PROCEDURES

Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis, (LASIK) also known as Laser Intrastromal Keratomileusis, combines the precision of the Excimer laser delivery system with the benefits of Automated Lamellar Keratoplasty.

One of the crucial elements of this surgery is an instrument called a microkeratome. This device was first invented by Dr. Barraquer of Bogota, Columbia, for use in keratomileusis. Years later his associate Dr. Luiz Ruiz refined the instrument to be used for lamellar procedures. During the surgery a part of this instrument called a suction ring is used to isolate the central part of the cornea.

The microkeratome than glides across the cornea creating a smooth corneal flap (lenticule). This flap should remain attached or "hinged" to the cornea. Then, in less than 90 seconds, ultraviolet light and high energy pulses from the Excimer laser reshape the internal cornea with accuracy up to 0.25 microns. The procedure can treat low to high levels of nearsightedness and by adjusting the pattern of the laser beam, it may also be possible to treat farsightedness and astigmatism. The amount of tissue that is vaporized depends upon your refractive error or degree of nearsightedness. After the cornea has been reshaped, the flap is replaced in its original position.

Because of the cornea's extraordinary natural bonding qualities, healing is rapid and does not require stitches. The entire procedure takes less than 10 minutes. In the United States, LASIK is still considered "investigational" by the FDA, but is quickly becoming the procedure by choice of refractive surgeons all over the world.

Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is a safe and effective procedure used to reduce large amounts of myopia, but it is a surgery and thus has risks involved. These risks are undercorrection, overcorrection, inflammation, infection, loss of tissue which would have to be replaced by donor tissue, and even loss of vision. Be sure that you are fully informed of all the benefits and risks of LASIK. Also make sure you choose a surgeon with a lot of experience in lamellar procedures (ALK).

For more information on the services and procedures we provide, please select from the list below.

Cataract Care
Computers and Eye Strain
Contact Lens
Corneal Transplants
Diabetic Eye Disease
Eyeglasses
Floaters & Flashers
General Eye Exams
Glaucoma Treatment & Surgery
Laser for Vision Correction
Learning Disabilities & Vision
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Macular Degeneration
Myopia
No Stitch Cataract Surgery
Pediatric Eye Care
PRK/ALK/LASIK
Ptosis
Retina & Vitreous Surgery
Strabismus