Laser eye surgery comes in multiple forms. Gone are the days when one laser type had to fit all kinds of eye problems; as research and technology has developed in the field, so have the options and treatments available to those who may need to receive laser treatment.
SmartSight NOVA Laser Eye Surgery
SmartSight NOVA is the latest in laser eye surgery. SmartSight NOVA can treat short-sightedness and astigmatism. It’s not suitable for patients who are long-sighted or experience reading difficulties that are common later in life. SmartSight NOVA is a type of Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction (KLEx) that requires a smaller incision (3mm) compared to LASIK (23mm), so recovery is faster. The procedure has been available and used for over 10 years, being regarded as very safe among researchers and ophthalmologists in the industry.
Why Choose SmartSight NOVA?
The benefits of choosing SmartSight NOVA are as follows:
- It is less invasive than other forms of laser eye surgery.
- Rapid recovery.
- Little discomfort after the procedure.
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) changes the shape of the cornea using an excimer laser. PRK surgery is performed on the cornea surface rather than under a flap like LASIK. The thin outer layer of the epithelium is removed to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. The epithelium repairs itself by growing back over the corneal surface within a few days.
Lions Laser Vision has the latest technology in PRK and is the only Perth clinic to offer TransPRK, an advanced form of this type of laser eye surgery.
There is a reduced risk of complications with PRK compared to LASIK. There is no corneal flap with PRK, however recovery is usually slower and may require more time away from work. PRK is the least common form of laser eye surgery. It’s ideal for patients whose conditions aren’t suitable for other methods.
Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)
Laser in-situ keratomileusis (or LASIK) eye surgery is the most popular form of laser surgery worldwide. First performed in 1991, LASIK has been used to treat millions of patients with high success rates and good recoveries. LASIK surgery can be used to correct near-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism.
This type of laser eye surgery works by creating a corneal flap, then removing corneal tissue to change the shape. The flap is returned and begins adhering to the tissue below within minutes – no stitches required.
Why Choose LASIK?
LASIK is popular because of its benefits:
- No scarring.
- Rapid recovery and vision restoration after surgery.
- Return to work within 1-3 days.
- Possible to treat both eyes at the same time.
- Vision improved almost immediately, without the need for glasses or contacts.
Why Choose PRK?
PRK is the preferred procedure for patients:
- Who have thin corneas.
- Who have problems on the surface of the cornea.
- Who may have had laser eye surgery in the past.
- With superficial scarring.
Risks of Laser Eye Surgery
All forms of laser eye surgery are extremely safe and have been performed worldwide for years. While side effects are rare, there are some risks to be aware of that may be short or long-term.
- Over correction or under correction (all methods).
- Loss of best corrected vision (all methods).
- Scarring on cornea (PRK).
- Cloudiness on the cornea (PRK).
- Infections (PRK).
- Complications creating the lenticule (Smartsight NOVA).
- Slow to heal (PRK).
- Regression of effectiveness over time (PRK).
- Pain, irritation, and watering eyes (PRK).
- Dry eyes (LASIK, less with SmartSight NOVA).
- Sensitive to light (PRK).
- Halos and night glare (all methods).
- Complications creating the flap or slippage (LASIK).
- Epithelial in growth (LASIK, SmartSight NOVA).
- Diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) or Kerectasia (LASIK & SmartSight NOVA).
Frequently Asked Questions About the Types of Laser Eye Surgery
Many questions get put to our team at Lions Laser Vision about the different types of laser eye surgery.
Why Are There Multiple Types of Laser Eye Surgery?
Different methods treat different eye conditions. Some patients are suitable for more than one method and can choose which they prefer. Other patients don’t have a choice.
I’ve Only Heard of LASIK – Are the Other Methods Safe?
Yes, the three methods of laser eye surgery are all safe and effective. LASIK is the most common method, but SmartSight NOVA is quickly gaining popularity. PRK is the only option for some patients.
Is There a Difference in Cost Between the Three Methods?
If you have any questions or wish to discuss laser eye surgery further, please contact us online or give us a call on (08) 9381 0758 to speak with one of our clinical coordinators.
