LASIK
LASIK, which stands for Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis, is a more recent advance in Laser Vision Correction. LASIK has been performed internationally for over 12 years and was first performed in the U.S. in 1991 during clinical trials. In LASIK surgery, precisely controlled removal of corneal tissue by a special laser reshapes the cornea. By changing the cornea’s focusing power, the need for glasses or contact lenses is often eliminated. Though LASIK is a relatively new procedure, Ophthalmologists have been reshaping the cornea for vision correction for over 50 years and have been using the excimer laser (used in LASIK) since the 1980's.
How LASIK Works
LASIK surgery uses a surgical tool called a microkeratome (flap-maker) to create a "flap" of the outer corneal tissue that can be temporarily placed out of the way and then precisely repositioned. Once the flap is folded out of the way, LASIK proceeds with the use of an excimer laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. When the flap is replaced over the remodeled cornea, it immediately conforms to the new shape while covering the treatment area.
Dr. Auker is dedicated to enabling you to make the best choice for your lifelong vision. Many options are available and we are committed to providing each of our patients with this service. For each carefully selected patient that we offer refractive surgery to, we perform the procedure that is in his or her individual best interest.
Integrated Care
Many patients are under the care of an Optometrist who is intimately familiar with their longstanding ocular history and the stability of their refractive error. In these cases, Dr. Auker can work intimately with your Optometrist to assess your eligibility, and to determine the best procedure and outcome for your individual case. This relationship will always be professional and ethical with the sole purpose of providing you with the very best care available anywhere. Post-operative care is delegated to another care provider only on your request and when it is to your benefit. Dr. Auker is personally available to all his post-operative patients on a planned or as-needed basis.
Potential Problems
A detailed discussion of the risks associated with each refractive procedure is part of every patient evaluation and consultation. This is accomplished via digital, video and printed informational material provided, as well as through one-on-one consultation with Dr. Auker and his experienced staff.
Careful assessment preoperatively is by far the best method of avoiding the problems that can reduce the benefit and satisfaction one should experience following LASIK. Large pupils, dry eyes, and thin or misshapen corneas demand caution and carefully selected options to minimize the risk of a less-than-optimal outcome. Many options are available and refractive surgery is not for everyone.
