Eye Laser Treatment - Repair Damaged Vision

Eye laser treatment goes by several different names. It is known as LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomiluesis), LTK (laser-thermokeratoplasty), keratectomy or PRK (photorefractive keratotomy). Using these procedures, a physician can correct a number of vision defects.

Astigmatism is a defect that causes vision to be significantly blurred because of decreased visual acuity. This is very difficult to correct using the traditional lenses found in glasses or contacts, but it can be corrected by eye laser treatment. A procedure such as LASIK can help smooth the cornea, creating a spherical shape, which improves vision.

With myopia, or nearsightedness, the cornea is too steep. This condition can cause eyestrain and headaches because the person is often squinting to see objects in the distance. Eye laser treatment can help correct this refractive error by flattening the cornea. On the other hand, hyperopia, or farsightedness, means that a person can clearly see objects at a distance, but will oftentimes have trouble deciphering letters in a book they are reading. Surgical procedures using lasers can alter the shape of the cornea, thereby increasing the person's ability to see objects that are close up such as books and magazines.

Glaucoma is a loss of vision from optic nerve damage. Intraocular pressure is thought to play a part in this damage. Eye laser treatment can help by creating scars in the eye's drainage system, which can reduce pressure.

Diabetic retinopathy can lead to PDR (proliferative diabetic retinopathy) which can cause loss of vision, neovascular glaucoma and retinal detachment. PDR occurs in patients with diabetes. This can be treated with a form of surgery called PRP (pan retinal photocoagulation).

These procedures are done while the patient is awake. The patient is given some medication to help calm and relax them. Drops are placed to help numb the area. The patient then lies back in a chair and a lid speculum is placed to hold the eyelid open. During the procedure, the patient may experience slight pressure and discomfort, but it should not be painful. The exact procedure the physician uses will depend on the type and degree of vision defect being treated. When this is finished, there will be a shield placed over the eyelid to prevent injury.

After eye laser treatment, there may be some itching, burning or irritation. The eyes may water up, but it is very important not you rub them. There may also be some light sensitivity and the eyes may appear bloodshot. A patient may not wear eye makeup for at least two weeks. No contact sports should be performed for at least four weeks, and during this time, an eye-shield should also be worn at night. It will be 8 weeks before the patient is allowed to swim or use a hot tub. If any severe pain is felt, the patient's physician should be immediately