Lasik & PRK

Laser eye surgery is the most popular elective procedure performed in healthy eyes to decrease your dependence on glasses or contact lenses. It is an effective, safe and predictable method for correcting nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. This surgical technique was approved in the United States in 1991 – we are approaching 25 years of experience in PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) and LASIK (laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis).

Blade-less LASIK is a two-step operation wherein first, the femtosecond Intralase laser creates a thin corneal flap. Next, this flap is lifted to access the inside of the cornea where the VISX laser is used to treat your prescription. The flap is then returned to position on your cornea, where it heals permanently.

In PRK, there is no corneal flap made, but the same laser is used to reshape your cornea. Healing takes a little longer after PRK compared to LASIK. PRK is recommended for certain patients who are not good candidates for LASIK. The visual result of both Lasik and PRK are equivalent.

While laser vision correction reshapes the cornea, it does not affect the lens of the eye, which is crucial for near vision. Therefore, if you currently use bifocals or reading glasses, you will still need them after laser correction surgery. Monovision laser correction may be an option for you to minimize your need for reading glasses after laser eye surgery.

The first step to determine whether or not you'd be a good candidate for laser eye surgery is to make an appointment for a free consultation with one of our surgeons, Dr. Lisa Rosenberg or Dr. Pedro Cervantes. During your examination, your eyes will be measured by sophisticated instruments to determine their health and stability. The surgeons themselves inform you about the benefits and possible risks of surgery and you'll understand if LASIK is right for you.

To learn more about Lasik eye surgery and its risks, watch this video: