If glasses and contact lenses have become a hassle for you, a laser eye surgery consultation is an opportunity to learn more about other vision correction options.
Schedule a laser eye surgery consultation at Dr. Mei-Ling Chan Optometry to discuss the variety of refractive surgery options offered by their co-managing ophthalmologist, and have her recommend the treatment that is best for you.
Laser eye surgery (also referred to as refractive surgery or laser vision correction), is a procedure designed to permanently treat issues caused by myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
Procedures include:
LASIK (laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis) is the most common form of laser eye surgery, because the recovery time is fairly short. During the procedure, an ophthalmologist will create a flap in your superficial cornea with a blade or laser. The flap is folded back, and an excimer laser is used to reshape the corneal stroma to correct your refraction. The flap is then placed back in its original position to heal.
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a very similar procedure to LASIK but instead of making a corneal flap during your surgery, your surgeon will remove the epithelium (the outer layer of your cornea) with a special brush, blade, laser or alcohol solution. Then, the excimer laser is used to reshape your cornea to correct your prescription. A bandage contact lens is used for a few days while the corneal epithelium heals.
Typically, PRK is recommended for patients who aren’t good candidates for LASIK, such as those with thin corneas. PRK may also be a better fit for athletes or law enforcement personnel, as there is no risk of flap-related complications.
If you aren’t a good candidate for LASIK or PRK surgery, RLE (refractive lens exchange) may be an option for you. Your ophthalmologist removes your natural crystalline lens, replacing it with an intraocular lens with the correct power to eliminate your prescription. RLE is effectively the same as cataract surgery, but without the cataract. This type of surgery is often used to correct presbyopia, high myopia or hyperopia.
After your surgery, please have a plan in place to get home safely, as you will not be able to drive after the appointment.
Your ophthalmologist will give you a pair of sunglasses and an eye shield to help mitigate light sensitivity and protect your eyes. You will be given medicated eye drops along with a regimen to follow to help the healing process. You may experience common side effects, including redness, irritation, dryness, and light sensitivity for a couple of days following the surgery.
Your optometrist will schedule several follow-up appointments to monitor how well your eyes are healing.
Please let your eye care professional know if you are experiencing any issues after your surgery, so they can help mitigate any problems.
Please book a consultation with us today to determine if you are a candidate for refractive surgery.
We are conveniently located in the Eagle Ridge Medical Complex on Huronia Road, with plenty of paid parking ($3 for the whole day) available during office hours.
Dr. Mei-Ling Chan Optometry
