A non-LASIK vision correction surgery is any surgical procedure that corrects refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or presbyopia) without using the LASIK technique. These procedures are often considered for people who aren't good candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas, dry eyes, high prescriptions, age-related vision changes, or other eye conditions.
We will be discussing the non- LASIK options offered at Keil Lasik Vision Center.
Some common non-LASIK options include:
PRK uses a laser to reshape the cornea similar to LASIK. Unlike LASIK, no corneal flap is created. Often recommended for people with thinner corneas or professionals in high contact sports such as basketball players, UFC fighters, and wrestlers. Recovery is longer and more uncomfortable than LASIK. After the procedure there is more fluctuation in vision. In order to assist with comfort and healing, Dr. Keil places a bandage contact lens on the eye for one week. Like LASIK, PRK can correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
ICL is a procedure where a synthetic lens is implanted inside the eye without removing the natural lens. The lens works in harmony with the natural lens to give you 20/20 or better vision. This option is offered to people with higher prescriptions with or without astigmatism that LASIK cannot treat. The procedure is considered an additive procedure, meaning that we are adding something to the eye instead of taking it away, such as in the case of LASIK. Due to the nature of the procedure it can be reversed in the case of Cataract surgery in the future, or trauma to the eye. ICL does not touch the cornea, so common LASIK concerns, such as dry eye, are not a concern with ICL.
RLE goes by other names such as Clear Lens Exchange (CLE), and premium cataract surgery. In RLE procedure the natural lens in the eye is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens. RLE is often performed prior to cataract development, but after the need for reading glasses (presbyopia) develops. RLE can correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism and readers (presbyopia). After having the RLE procedure you will not develop cataracts.
Reading eye drops are good for people who can see for distance like driving, but have difficulty seeing up close like reading, and looking at your phone. Reading eye drops constrict the pupil, limiting the amount of light that enters the eye. One drop in each eye per day allows near vision to become clear.
The best procedure depends on factors such as:
A comprehensive consultation by an ophthalmologist can determine which procedure is most appropriate.