Using PRK or Lasik, myopia can be treated successfully and safely.
PRK was the first surgical procedure developed to reshape the cornea, by sculpting, using a laser. Photorefractive Keratectomy or PRK is a refractive surgery used to reshape the cornea. In Radial Keratotomy (RK), a very sharp knife is used to cut slits in the cornea changing its shape.
Later, LASIK was developed. The same type of laser is used for LASIK and PRK. Often the exact same laser is used for the two types of surgery. Whether using lasik or prk, myopia can be treated with a very high success rate. The major difference between the two surgeries is the way that the stroma, the middle layer of the cornea, is exposed before it is vaporized with the laser. In PRK, the top layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is scraped away to expose the stromal layer underneath. In LASIK, myopia is corrected by cutting a flap in the stromal layer and the flap is folded back.
These technological advances have brought about related advances, also in the field of keratoconus. Dr. Lombardi made a breakthrough in the treatment of keratoconus in the early 80s, when he applied the same principles used in Radial Keratotomy, strategically located incisions in the cornea to correct myopia disorders, to treat keratoconus.
In using either prk or lasik, myopia and other defects in vision can be corrected with very satisfactory results.
Schedule a consultation to see if you are a good candidate for lasik surgery by completing the on-line request form.