LASIK/Surgical Vision Correction Specialist

What conditions can laser vision correction treat?

Laser vision correction, also called refraction surgery, helps correct the following common vision issues:

• Nearsightedness
• Farsightedness
• Astigmatism
• Age-related presbyopia

Laser-assisted in situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery is the most popular form of refractive surgery, but Dr. Cooper also co-manages and refers surgeons who perform other refractive surgical procedures -- including photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), and SMILE -- based on your specific needs.

What is the difference between PRK, LASIK, and SMILE?

PRK, often known as surface ablation, was the first laser vision correction procedure to achieve success in the United States and is still an option to correct vision. This surgery removes tissue from the surface of your eye to change the curvature of your cornea.

During LASIK procedures, the surgeon uses laser technology to reshape your cornea. They create a flap in the surface of your cornea that allows the light entering your eye to focus on your retina correctly, giving you clearer vision.

SMILE -- an acronym for SMall Incision Lenticule Extraction -- achieves virtually the same results as LASIK, but without the need for a corneal flap. It appears that this has been correlated with less of a risk for Dry Eye.

An advantage of the LASIK and SMILE procedures are their quick, painless recovery time. Unlike other laser treatments, your vision clears within a few hours after LASIK and SMILE, so you don’t have to wait long to notice your improved vision.

Which laser vision correction procedure is right for me?

The doctor reviews your overall eye health to determine which treatment is right for you. She may recommend LASIK treatments if you suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

PRK treatments may be an alternative to LASIK if you have a thin cornea or suffer from dry eye syndrome.

If you have cataracts, Dr. Cooper or Dr. Chung may recommend laser surgery to implant new, clear lenses that eliminate cataract complications. This treatment may also involve the implantation of an intraocular lens to improve your vision, which reduces your dependence on glasses and contact lenses if you have near or farsightedness.

Do the results of laser vision surgeries last forever?

While laser surgery can improve your vision and provide long-lasting results, there’s a chance you may need maintenance treatments in the future to keep your vision clear. Just like your contact lenses and glasses need adjustments over time, you may also require additional laser surgeries as you age.

To learn more about your candidacy for laser treatments, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cooper or Dr. Chung online or by calling the office directly.