Understanding LASIK Incisions

Laser vision correction eye surgery has brought lens-free vision to literally millions of people over the years. Technology continues to improve this medical procedure, making the outcomes more precise than ever before.

So why hasn’t everyone jumped on the laser vision correction bandwagon? Fear is one factor that keeps some people away. Specifically, fear of the laser vision correction incision. Let’s face it: our eyes are sensitive, and the thought of having a procedure that involves cutting the cornea can be scary. When you have detailed information about the procedure, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to pursue laser vision correction.

Type of LASIK Incisions

In laser vision correction surgery, the surgeon makes a thin flap in the cornea via one of two methods:

• Mechanical tool called a Microkeratome. This is an oscillating, hand-held blade that is controlled by the surgeon. 
• Femtosecond laser also referred to as “bladeless” LASIK. Pre-calculated computer software guides the laser beam to cut the flap at a precise diameter and depth.

The corneal flap is folded back to allow the surgeon to reshape the cornea and correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism issues. When the refractive error work is completed, the surgeon folds the corneal flap back down, where it heals itself. The whole process only takes minutes per eye! And most patients are already experiencing improved vision when they leave the office.

The truth of the matter is that laser vision correction surgery is quite safe when it is performed by an experienced laser vision correction surgeon. The Food and Drug Administration has approved nearly 30 lasers; lasers they have deemed to be safe and effective for laser vision correction surgery. There have also been advances in the microkeratome technology that have increased the effectiveness of the hand-held blade method.

If you would like to learn more about the entire laser vision correction procedure, contact Pacific Eye Specialists today to schedule a  LASIK Evaluation or visit our website at www.pacificeyespecialists.com. Don’t let fear stop you from achieving great vision!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from Pacific Eye Specialists!

Women – More Susceptible to Vision Problems than Men

According to Prevent Blindness America, “Every year, more women than men are diagnosed with eye diseases and conditions such as cataracts, dry eye, Fuchs’ dystrophy, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and Sjögren’s syndrome.  The “Vision Problems in the U.S.” study from Prevent Blindness America (PBA) and the National Eye Institute (NEI) shows that of the more than 3.6 million Americans age 40 and older who suffer from visual impairment, including blindness, 2.3 million are women” (Women Must Take Steps to Avoid Vision Loss, March 27, 2012).

Hereditary diseases aside, these problems are often caused by hormones, or the fluctuations in hormones like pregnancy or menopause. Sometimes they can even be triggered by birth control, which is a hormone regulating medication. Even keeping your eye makeup for too long can cause problems with your eyes.

At Pacific Eye Specialists, we recommend to our female patients that they pay close attention to their eyesight while pregnant, when changing prescription pills or going on new medication, and to switch out their makeup every six months to a year. If you feel that your glasses or contacts are not helping as much as they used to, make sure to have an eye exam. Mention to your doctor any new prescription changes so that he may accurately diagnose the underlying issue.

Your eyes are how you see the world. Keep them in great health.

Eye Strain Issues

If you work in front of a computer, you have probably experienced eye strain. Here is a great video with a few tips to help keep your eyes in top performance!

Super Human Vision

Superhero powers are only a thing of comic books. No one person has super powers.

Or do they?

Scientists have begun to uncover an ability found in only about 12% of women – the ability to see more colors in the color spectrum than originally thought possible. While studies are still being performed to test this new vision ability, the thought that our world holds more color than most can see is quite intriguing.

The eyes are a very powerful thing.

To read the full article, click here.