LASIK eye surgery
Carried out by Mr Graeme Mackintosh DO, FRCS, FRC Ophth
Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
What does LASIK stand for?
LASIK is an abbreviated term for “LASER ASSISTED In situ
KERATOMILEUSIS’.
And what does that mean?
LASIK uses a combination of sophisticated microsurgery and a
laser to reshape the cornea. Reshaping the cornea alters the
focusing power of the eye, allowing you to become less independent
on glasses or contact lenses.
Why choose LASIK?
LASIK is considered by the majority of refractive surgeons
worldwide as the procedure of choice today.
LASIK is the same day procedure – you usually enter and leave
the laser centre within hours of the procedure. In experienced
hands the procedure typically takes 6 to 8 minutes to perform for
each eye.
LASIK is a method of correcting the eye to decrease dependence
on glasses and contact lenses. It differs from regular laser
surgery – Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) in the following
aspects:
* Rapid restoration of vision (within hours of surgery)
* Highly predictable
* Both eyes can be treated on the same day
* Minimal discomfort
* Minimal requirement for eye drops
* Early stabilisation of vision (less than 6 weeks)
* Earlier enhancement (fine tuning) if necessary.
* No haze
* Wider range of correctable prescriptions - +5.00 to –10.00
Diopters
* Treatment of Astigmatism – up to 5 Diopters
*Patients with almost any prescription outside the range of
Lasik can be treated with appropriate implants such as the ICL
(implantable contact lens) which can correct very high degrees of
myopia, astigmatism and long-site. Mr Mackintosh will be pleased to
explain this technique and give you another handout if you are
interested.
How does LASIK work?
The cornea, a small area of transparent tissue a the front of
the eye, provides two thirds of the focusing power. Altering its
shape changes the focusing power of the eye. LASIK flattens the
cornea to correct shortsightedness (myopia) or steepens the cornea
for farsightedness (hyperopia). The reshaping process can also be
used to correct astigmatism at the same time. The surgeon creates
an ultrathin flap of the cornea 0.16mm thick. The laser is used to
reshape the cornea under the flap. The flap is then replaced and
adheres without the need for stitches. With the flap in place, the
eye believes that no surgical procedure has taken place. Vision is
rapidly restored with minimal discomfort.
Am I a candidate for LASIK?
YES! – If you:
* Have healthy eyes with no diseases (e.g.cataracts)
*Have realistic expectations
*Are within the range of correction
*Are in good general health
How do I make a booking?
You can book directly through Mr Mackintosh’s Secretary on:-
(01452) 528774