Types of Eye Surgery - A Short Overview

Let's discuss the different types of eye surgery to correct nearsightedness.

Eye surgery has advanced to the point that there are several options for people suffering from myopia who prefer a permanent solution.

Most of these options will reshape the cornea of the eye in one way or another.

PRK

Photorefractive keratectomy, also known as PRK, removes some of the tissue of the surface of the eye to correct the curvature of the cornea. Another name for this procedure is surface ablation. It was approved by the FDA in 1995 for use in the United States.

While not as popular as LASIK surgery, PRK has some advantages. Surgical outcomes are similar to LASIK with this procedure, but it has been shown that nerve regeneration on the surface of the eye takes place much quicker with PRK. This could help reduce the effects of dry eye or other complications following surgery.

PRK is a surface procedure, reducing or eliminating the risk of complications common with other types of eye surgery. PRK is also a better procedure for those people who have a thin cornea.

LASIK

Laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is similar to PRK with the exception that a small thin flap is cut in the surface of the eye.

Once the flap is lifted out of the way, laser energy is used to reshape the eye.

The flap is put back in place and creates a natural bandaging. This is the most popular choice for surgical correction of myopia.

LASIK's primary advantage is there is little discomfort for most people shortly after the procedure. Vision is usually clear after a few hours rather than waiting days.

There are a few different types of LASIK procedures that may be done.

LASEK creates an extra thin hinged flap on the eye that is floated away from the surgical area with alcohol so the eye may be reshaped.

Epi-LASIK uses a special tool for lifting the flap that eliminates any risk of reaction to alcohol in the eye.

All-Laser LASIK dispenses with cutting tools altogether and only uses lasers to do the surgery. This procedure is also known as IntraLASIK, Bladeless, or Blade-Free LASIK.

Wavefront LASIK uses a modern analysis to measure exactly how light travels into the eye so very subtle corrections can be made surgically. This type of LASIK surgery can help eliminate night glare.

Implantable Lenses

Similar to contact lenses, implantable lenses were approved by the FDA in 2004. These lenses are surgically implanted and are a good choice to correct high levels of myopia. This lens goes over your natural lens. They have been used successfully for over a decade in Europe.

Refractive Lens Exchange is another internal procedure that is similar to getting cataract surgery. This procedure removes the natural lens and replaces it with an artificial lens that has been shaped to correct the visual defect.

It can be used for farsightedness, and may be an option for nearsightedness when severe correction is needed.

All these types of eye surgery can be very successful. BUT there are also risks.

Before you commit to surgery, be sure to research all possible side effects that may occur.

Talk with your eye doctor about the procedure and make sure you are a good candidate for the procedure.

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