Laser Vision Correction

LASIK in Pittsburgh, Charleroi, & Mt. Pleasant, PA

What is Laser Vision Correction?

Young Woman Getting Vision Correction SurgeryLaser Vision Correction is a procedure that uses a computer controlled ultra-violet beam of light to reshape the cornea in an effort to allow light to focus more directly on the retina. The procedure first gained acceptance in the mid 1980’s and has undergone numerous clinical trials since that time to refine its use and determine its safety and effectiveness.

It is important that patients have realistic expectations and that decisions are made based on facts – not hopes or misconceptions. Laser Vision Correction does not always create 20/20 or even 20/40 vision. Your doctor will provide you with additional information that will allow you to make an informed decision. In general, the ideal patient has a healthy cornea and has not had a significant increase in their prescription in the last year.

There are two main types of correction being preformed via laser: (1) PRK and (2) LASIK.

LASIK

LASIK Diagram

Diagram of the LASIK Procedure

Laser in-Situ Keratomileusis or LASIK differs from PRK in that it corrects vision by reshaping the corneal tissue beneath the surface of the cornea. Rather than remove the surface layer of the cornea, a special device called a microkeratome is used to create a thin corneal flap of tissue. The laser is applied to the underlying tissue and the flap is then repositioned. LASIK can be used to treat higher levels of nearsightedness and moderate amounts of farsightedness, however, there are limits. Similar to PRK, the cornea is made flatter to treat nearsightedness, steeper to treat farsightedness and more spherical to treat astigmatism. Because LASIK is performed under a protective layer of tissue, there is less surface area to heal, less risk of corneal haze, less postoperative discomfort and medication, and vision returns more rapidly. However, LASIK carries additional surgical risks than PRK. Talk to your eye doctor to learn more.

What’s the Difference Between PRK & LASIK?

The main difference between PRK and LASIK is that PRK removes the cornea’s outer layer, which will grow back in time, while LASIK creates a thin flap in the cornea. However, both are refractive eye surgery procedures and can treat vision problems like astigmatism, nearsightedness, farsightedness and reduce your dependency on eyeglasses and contact lenses.

Is LASIK Worth It?

LASIK is a highly popular procedure, and for good reason! It rarely produces complications and can potentially lead to your best vision yet. LASIK can not just correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism; it can also reduce your dependency on eyeglasses and contact lenses. When you consider how expensive it is to maintain your eyeglasses or contact lenses, LASIK begins to make more sense. LASIK is best seen as an investment in your vision and well-being. 

Am I a Candidate for LASIK?

Unfortunately, not everyone who wants LASIK Eye Surgery may be right for it. If some or all of these factors apply to you, it may be best to consider an alternative to LASIK.

  • Younger than 18
  • Pregnant or nursing
  • Taking prescription drugs
  • Have an autoimmune disease or condition
  • Have Dry Eye Syndrome

If you’re curious about whether or not you’re a candidate for LASIK, take our refractive surgery self-test today!

Locations icon

Our Locations

Pittsburgh

1000 Bower Hill Road, Suite 7200
Pittsburgh, Pa 15243

tel. 412.572.6121

fax. 412.571.1327

Hours of Operation:
8:30AM-4:30 PM

Mt. Pleasant

Executive Office Building
220 Bessemer Road Suite 101
Mt. Pleasant, PA 15666

tel. 724.547.5733

fax. 724.547.2234

Hours of Operation:
8:30AM-4:30 PM

Charleroi

Vista One
17 Arentzen Boulevard, Suite 201
Charleroi, PA 15022

tel. 724.483.3688

fax. 724.483.3936

Hours of Operation:
8:30AM-4:30 PM