Achieving Vision Correction with All-Laser LASEK for High Astigmatism
Hello.
I'm Dr. Minji Lee, head director of Gangnam ID Eye Clinic.
Vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism are common concerns. With the increasing use of electronic devices like smartphones and computers, vision deterioration is on the rise.
When blurred vision from refractive errors affects daily life, people often turn to glasses or contact lenses for correction. However, many seek more permanent solutions like vision correction surgery to escape the inconvenience of corrective eyewear and enjoy greater freedom.
Before considering vision correction surgery, it's crucial to understand that individuals with thin corneas, high astigmatism, or severe myopia may not be suitable candidates for traditional laser vision correction methods. Alternative approaches may be necessary.
If you're exploring vision correction options, it's essential to understand why conventional laser surgery might not be feasible in your case and what alternative methods are available for high astigmatism and myopia.
"Understanding Myopia and Astigmatism First"
Myopia causes difficulty seeing distant objects clearly because the focal point lands in front of the retina. Statistically, about one in four people have myopia.
It arises from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Symptoms include eye strain, headaches from constant focusing efforts, squinting, or tilting the head to see clearly.
Astigmatism, on the other hand, occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing light to focus at multiple points instead of one. This results in blurred vision at all distances.
Irregularities in the cornea or lens, genetic predisposition, pressure from eyelids or eyelashes on the eyeball, or complications from cataract surgery can cause astigmatism. Severe cases may lead to eye fatigue and headaches.
Many people initially use glasses or contact lenses to address vision problems. However, these are not permanent solutions, leading many to seek vision correction surgery as an alternative.
"Why LASIK and LASEK Can Be Challenging for High Astigmatism and Myopia"
LASIK and LASEK are common vision correction surgeries that use lasers to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors.
LASIK involves creating a corneal flap before applying the laser to the corneal stroma, while LASEK involves removing a portion of the corneal epithelium before laser vision correction.
LASIK offers less pain and faster recovery but carries risks of flap complications and dry eye. LASEK is more stable and resistant to trauma but involves a longer recovery and more discomfort.
Laser vision correction may not be suitable for individuals with thin or irregular corneas, high astigmatism, or severe myopia.
Higher refractive errors require more corneal tissue removal, which can excessively thin the residual cornea and lead to complications like ectasia (corneal bulging) due to increased eye pressure.
Irregular astigmatism and rapid vision deterioration require careful evaluation. High astigmatism and severe myopia demand thorough examination and careful consideration.
In the past, high astigmatism and myopia were considered outside the treatable range for vision correction surgery. However, advancements in technology have led to all-laser LASEK techniques that prioritize corneal preservation and address the limitations of earlier methods.
"Exploring the Principles and Advantages of All-Laser LASEK"
All-laser vision correction uses lasers to create corneal flaps or remove the corneal epithelium, allowing for more precise and safer procedures.
This approach minimizes the risk of complications like infection or dry eye, reduces errors, and promotes safety, less pain, and faster recovery.
The entire process, including epithelial removal, is performed using lasers. This reduces the amount of tissue removed, making it suitable for individuals with thin corneas or high refractive errors.
"Advantages of TransPRK (Two-Day LASEK)"
TransPRK uses the SCHWIND AMARIS Red excimer laser to remove the epithelium and ablate the stroma. The laser beam is very small, reducing the treated area by about 40% compared to traditional LASEK, which minimizes pain and shortens recovery.
The one-step process of removing the epithelium and immediately applying the laser reduces the overall procedure time and minimizes corneal exposure, lowering the risk of dry eye.
The 7D eye-tracking system compensates for even the slightest eye movements in real-time, minimizing the risk of laser misalignment.
The thermal control system prevents overheating by avoiding repetitive laser application to the same area, reducing the risk of corneal damage.
"Advantages of Save LASEK"
Save LASEK uses the WaveLight EX500 excimer laser to precisely and rapidly remove the corneal epithelium and correct the stroma. The laser is designed to evenly ablate the peripheral cornea, reducing light scattering when the pupil dilates.
This approach minimizes the risk of corneal haze and dry eye. It is also suitable for individuals with high astigmatism and myopia, provided they meet the basic requirements.
Save LASEK offers minimal pain and fast recovery. The one-step procedure is customized for astigmatism correction, leading to satisfactory outcomes.
"Recommending the Right Method for High Astigmatism and Myopia"
When considering vision correction surgery, it's important to evaluate the eye examination process, the technology used, the surgeon's experience, and the quality of aftercare.
If you have thin corneas, high astigmatism, or myopia, it's crucial to undergo a thorough evaluation.
Even those with high myopia or astigmatism, who were previously considered unsuitable candidates, now have options for achieving clear vision.
Make sure the clinic offers a method tailored to your individual eye condition.
Thank you for reading. I'm Dr. Minji Lee, head director of Gangnam ID Eye Clinic.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/tkatlrltkatl/224082250202
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