Laser Eye Surgery
Baylor Scott & White Surgicare - Cityview: Your Guide to Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery, has transformed the lives of millions by reducing dependency on glasses or contact lenses. At Baylor Scott & White Surgicare – Cityview, we strive to offer advanced care that helps patients achieve their vision goals.
What Is Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser eye surgery is a minimally invasive procedure designed to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Using modern laser technology, surgeons reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina, resulting in clearer vision.
Popular Techniques Offered:
- LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis):
- A laser creates a thin flap in the cornea, which is lifted to reshape the underlying tissue.
- Known for quick recovery times, with many patients resuming normal activities within a day or two.
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy):
- The outer layer of the cornea is gently removed, and the laser reshapes the underlying tissue.
- Often recommended for patients with thinner corneas.
- SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction):
- A single laser creates a lenticule (a small disc of tissue) within the cornea, which is then removed through a tiny incision.
Who May Benefit from Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser eye surgery may be an option for individuals who:
- Are at least 18 years old, as the eyes need to reach full maturity.
- Have a stable prescription for at least one year.
- Do not have specific medical or eye conditions, such as severe dry eyes or advanced glaucoma.
It’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye evaluation with a qualified ophthalmologist to determine candidacy. Individual outcomes vary; expert consultation may provide the best recommendations for your unique vision needs.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- The procedure is typically completed within 30 minutes for both eyes.
- Anesthetic eye drops are applied to minimize discomfort.
- The surgeon uses precise laser technology to reshape the cornea based on your specific prescription and eye anatomy.
Post-Surgical Care
- Some patients report mild discomfort or sensitivity to light immediately following the procedure.
- Protective eyewear is provided to shield the eyes during healing.
- Follow-up appointments help to aid the recovery process.
Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery
- Convenience: Reduced reliance on glasses or contact lenses.
- Quick Recovery: Most patients notice improved vision within a day, with stabilization over several weeks.
- Long-Term Impact: The effects of laser eye surgery are often permanent, though some may require enhancements over time.
Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Vision
Laser eye surgery has the potential to enhance your quality of life by improving vision clarity and reducing dependency on corrective lenses. At Baylor Scott & White Surgicare – Cityview, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore whether laser eye surgery is right for you.
Sources:
- American Academy of Ophthalmology. “LASIK Eye Surgery Overview.” | https://www.aao.org
- Cleveland Clinic. “PRK vs. LASIK: Which Is Right for Me?” | https://my.clevelandclinic.org
- Mayo Clinic. “Laser Eye Surgery: What You Need to Know.” | https://www.mayoclinic.org