Laser Surgery Assessment
The most up to date laser surgery techniques are available right here in Brisbane
Laser vision assessments & and aftercare
Sometimes wearing glasses or contact lenses can get in the way of modern life. Advances in laser refractive technology mean that myopia (short sightedness), hyperopia (long sightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age related near focus blur) can all be potentially corrected with laser surely with excellent results. The optimal procedure for correcting your vision surgically is often determined by the surgeon whose experience and expertise will guide you to the best possible solution. Generally, the procedure selected takes into account you corneal shape, corneal thickness, spectacle prescription, eye health and your age. At Dean Samarkovski Optometrist, we can put you in touch with the leading surgeons in Brisbane. At this practice we can offer initial advice on your laser surgery options and also are very experienced in providing post operative aftercare.
Refractive vision correction options
LASIK
‘Lasik’ (Laser assisted inset keratomileusis) is the most common refractive procedure as it can safely correct high amounts of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism, with minimal recovery discomfort, and a fast return to normal vision. Lasik surgery involves creating a flap on the corneal surface which is carefully lifted while another laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue and finally the flap is gently placed back into the original position. Recovery time is around 5 days and a temporary dryness of the eyes is commonly experienced. This is alleviated with the regular application of lubricant drops.
PRK
“PRK’ (Photorefractive keratectomy) can correct low to moderate myopia and mild and is generally a lower cost surgical option. PRK involves using a laser to resurface the cornea after the very top layer of corneal tissue is removed. Following this, the cornea is allowed to slowly regenerate the natural top surface once more. PRK has a slower recovery time over few months and some discomfort and a feeling of dryness would be typically experienced.
SMILE
‘SMILE’ (Small incision lenticular extraction) uses a more complex laser technique that causes minimal disruption to the cornea. It is best suited for moderate myopia and a a minimal recovery time whilst retaining a high amount of corneal integrity being maintained and causes minimal dry eye symptoms.
ICL
‘ICL’ (Implantable collared lenses) are specialty collared lenses that are placed into the eye in front of the natural lens through a tiny hidden incision. Recovery time is extremely quick and this procedure can be done with a very wide range of high powered lenses.
TransPRK
‘TransPRK’ (Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy) is a new one-step incision-free procedure where the eye does not make contact with a surgical instrument. Using the one laser, the epithelium (the outer surface of the eye) is gently removed and the cornea precisely reshaped. The whole procedure allows the cornea to be reshape in less than one minute. TransPRK is suitable for all laser candidates and is particularly great for active, athletic people and for professions where sharp vision is needed. This procedure is also a good option for those patients with thin corneas.
Ready to learn more?
To learn more about the various vision laser options available to you, schedule an appointment to discuss your options further. At Dean Samarkovski Optometrist your eyes will be carefully examined and afterwards you will have a better understanding of what’s involved with laser surgery and you will be guided to the next step of the journey.