Welcome to the second in our Simplifying LASIK Basics series. In this edition, we\u2019ll highlight what the procedure\u2019s like and types of LASIK in a way that should keep it simple. Hopefully it can help you determine what types of questions to ask your doctor as part of your decision to have LASIK performed.<\/p>\n
What\u2019s The Procedure Like?<\/strong> Although there\u2019s more to it than this, here are the basics. Big Picture:<\/em> Laser technology reshapes your cornea so things look sharper and clearer. Who It\u2019s For:<\/em> Mainly for anyone who is nearsighted, farsighted or has astigmatism. What Happens:<\/em> A \u201cflap\u201d is created in the cornea, then the flap is gently lifted and folded back, and the cornea is reshaped using laser pulses to correct focusing problems in the eye. On average, it takes approximately 5 minutes, and may take slightly longer if your vision problems are more severe.<\/p>\n Types Of LASIK. <\/strong>Essentially, there are three basic types of LASIK, each designed to do what LASIK is supposed to do \u2013\u00a0help you see better, possibly better than you ever have with less dependency on glasses or contact lenses. You may have seen types of LASIK referred to this way: Conventional LASIK<\/em>, Wavefront-Optimized LASIK<\/em>, and Wavefront-Guided LASIK<\/em> (also called Custom LASIK<\/em>).<\/p>\n Which Type Of LASIK Is Best?<\/strong> Different doctors may use different types for different reasons. At Eye Consultants of Texas, we use a system based on Custom LASIK<\/em>. It brings together two highly advanced technologies for a procedure branded \u201ciLASIK.\u201d Dr. Labor selected this after careful evaluation, mainly because it has proven to be more efficient and successful than other LASIK technologies he has used. But also, because of what it was designed to do \u2013 give the surgeon more control in customizing the procedure to each patient\u2019s eye to get the best results. While the technology itself is extremely important, it\u2019s even more important that your doctor has the skill and expertise to use it! Having been the first in the U.S., Texas, or locally to perform new procedures, Dr. Labor does his homework, and trains extensively on new technologies and advancements before ever putting them to use.<\/p>\n