Alternative, flap-less, and non-laser procedures

Laser & Non-Laser Alternatives To LASIK Surgery

PRK, LASEK, Epi-Lasik,

Also known as Non-cutting surface procedures and advanced surface ablation. These terms refer to procedures in which a laser is used to reshape the surface of the cornea. For all Laser Vision Correction procedure, the same laser equipment is used. However, unlike LASIK surgery, no flap is cut. With flap-less procedures, the risk of flap related complications are eliminated. Compared with LASIK, these procedures have a slower healing period (1-2 weeks rather than 2-3 days) however it modifies far less corneal tissue. So why then are these techniques less popular than LASIK? Flapless procedures are more work intensive for the care provider and therefore not in line with the "assembly line" and high turnover philosophy of the commercial LASIK centers. To find out which Laser Vision Correction option is the right fit for you, be sure to consult with a surgeon experienced with all available techniques.

Implantable Contact Lens:

Also known as Visian ICL, Permanent Contacts or the Implantable Collimer Lens. This innovative procedure, which is a great option for non-LASIK candiates, does not remove any precious corneal tissue. Instead, a flexible Collimer lens is implanted into the eyes to correct the visual problem. As the first surgeon in the Tri-State area to preform Visian ICL, Dr. Cohen is one of the most experience ICL surgeons in the country. With the Visian ICL is foldable, allowing for insertion through a very small incision. It is placed behind the iris and works with the existing natural lens to correct visionIt can also correct prescriptions that are far greater than the range that LASIK can treat. LASIK where corneal tissue is permanently removed, it is reversible. The Visian ICL procedure is the most advanced option for implantable contact lenses, and is the safest option currently availble. A much older version of the procedure, called the Verisyse lens implant, is still used but is much less effective. To find out more about the Visian ICL procedure, call our office today and speak with an experienced surgical adviser or refer to our Visian ICL information page.

Clear lensectomy (or Clear lens exchange):

In clear lensectomy the lens inside the eyes are replaced with an artificial lens. This is usually a good option for the extremely nearsighted or very farsighted person.

Conductive Keratoplasty:

CK is a procedure by which a radio-frequency probe is used to change the curvature of the cornea. It is a good option for the person who is slightly farsighted, usually after the age of 40. Its safety and simplicity for the patient has been the major advantage of this procedure. Due to the limited range of treatment, only a minority of patients are candidates.