Lasers Used in Eye Care

There are several types of lasers used in eye care. The type of laser used for your procedure will depend on what you are having treated and the recommendation of your ophthalmologist. During your initial consultation with an eye doctor, the types of lasers that may be utilized in your procedure will be discussed in full.

Refractive Error Correction Surgery

Refractive error corrective surgery is performed with an eximer laser. Both LASIK and PRK use this type of laser to reshape your cornea. However, with procedures such as bladeless LASIK, the flap for your procedure is created with a femtosecond laser. Using this type of laser allows your eye surgeon greater control over the size and depth of the corneal flap and may reduce complications with LASIK.

Laser Treatment for Eye Diseases

Eye diseases such as macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema are treated with a focal laser. Focal laser treatment is quick and painless. It works by flashing bright lights into your eye to close off blood vessels and reduce swelling. Focal laser treatment has proven to be a safe and effective way to treat a number of retinal disorders.

Lasers in Cataract Surgery

Recently, there has been a great deal of research into the use of lasers in cataract surgery. Research has shown that lasers can reduce complications in cataract surgery, so it is likely that lasers will be used in cataract surgery more often in the future.

Lasers are also used in the treatment of secondary cataracts, which is the opacification of the capsule that typically holds the lens. This typically occurs after cataract surgery, causing the common misconception that cataracts can sometimes recur.

Laser Technology

As eye care technology advances, so too do the many uses of lasers in surgical procedures. When you are selecting an eye doctor, look for someone who is dedicated to providing patients with the latest, safest technologies in vision correction and eye disease treatment techniques. Your eye doctor should be willing to discuss the technology utilized by his office during your initial consultation. Taking time to find an eye surgeon who offers state-of-the-art laser treatments can help reduce your risk for potential complications and work to ensure a safe and comfortable procedure.

If you are looking for a technologically advanced eye surgeon, please use our eye doctor locator to find an experienced ophthalmologist in your area today.