Shining a light on laser-assisted vision correction with LASIK and PRK
Dr. Melanie Sinatra‘s more than 24-year career has been defined by continuing learning and advancement. She has invested in the top technologies and training for these treatments—all with a laser focus on the health, comfort, and safety of her valued patients from across the Wyckoff, Franklin Lakes, Midland Park, Oakland, Ramsey, Saddle River, and Paramus, New Jersey area. Laser-assisted treatments like LASIK and PRK are a great fit with our advanced approach to treating a complete range of ocular conditions at Wyckoff Ophthalmology.
What is LASIK?
LASIK stands for “Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis.” We know that sounds like a mouthful, but it simply refers to using a laser for vision correction. It is an extremely popular procedure for those patients who want freedom from the hassle and expense associated with glasses and contact lenses.
How does LASIK work?
LASIK involves altering the way that light rays focus on the retina. Individuals with refractive errors cannot bend light properly due to the shape of their corneas. Since the light doesn’t focus properly on the retina, vision among those with myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism is blurry without corrective eyewear or lenses. So, LASIK and other forms of refractive surgery get to the root of the problem by reshaping the anatomy responsible for poor eyesight, leading to the need for prescription eyeglasses and/or contact lenses.
What can I expect from treatment?
The procedure largely involves numbing the eye with special drops for optimal comfort. Then the eye is isolated and prepared for the application of the laser. Patients will stare at a lit target to ensure their eyes don’t move as the laser precisely shapes the cornea. As the treatment site heals, you’ll wear a protective shield as directed by Dr. Sinatra. Special eye drops can help to alleviate dryness and accelerate healing. The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that 90% of LASIK patients achieved 20/20 to 20/40 vision without glasses or contacts!
What is PRK?
This procedure stands for “Photorefractive Keratectomy.” It, too, is laser-assisted vision correction. The techniques used to correct vision, however, differ from LASIK. As with all procedures at Wyckoff Ophthalmology, laser vision correction starts with comprehensive testing and evaluation. If you have very severe dry eyes or thin corneas, PRK may be a more appropriate alternative for you than LASIK. Unlike LASIK, this treatment starts with Dr. Sinatra expertly lifting the outermost layer of epithelial cells from the numbed cornea before the laser is used to alter the shape of the cornea. For PRK, the AAO reports that 90% of patients achieved at least 20/40 vision following treatment – no more glasses or contacts!
See well and live well—to the fullest. Call (201) 891-0200 today to schedule an appointment at our Wyckoff, NJ, office.
