LASIK, or Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, is a type of laser eye surgery for correcting myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. In order for light to focus more clearly on the retina, the outer window of the eye, or cornea must be of the proper curvature.
A wide range of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism can be corrected by the LASIK procedure. It is a precise surgical procedure that allows for a very predictable healing response. Your vision stabilizes rapidly, and you can expect to have little or no discomfort following LASIK. Most patients have driving vision within 24 hours of treatment.
In preparation for the LASIK procedure a thorough examination of the eye is performed to determine if one is a candidate or not for the procedure. Typical pre-testing includes corneal topography, wavefront analysis, corneal thickness, and refraction.
Prior to performing the procedure, the eye is numbed with topical anesthetic drops. A corneal flap is then cut with either a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser such as IntraLase®. The flap is then gently lifted, and the surgeon uses the computer-guided excimer laser to precisely reshape the cornea for corrected vision. The flap is replaced, and patients are instructed to keep their eyes shut for the next 2-4 hours, and to rest for the remainder of the day. The eyes are then examined the following day, and appropriate instructions are given at that time.
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is the same laser procedure as LASIK. It differs, however, in how the cornea is prepared for the laser treatment. With PRK, there is no creation of a flap and the surface cells are removed and the laser is applied. With LASIK, a corneal flap is created by a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser such as IntraLase®.
Today, PRK is commonly referred to as "surface ablation," meaning a laser procedure that is applied to the surface of the cornea. There are two main surface ablation techniques available which differ in the way the corneal epithelium is managed, LASEK and epi-LASIK.
In certain situations, PRK is a more suitable treatment option than Lasik.
The iLASIK suite, an advanced technology available to Dr. Conlon, offers enhanced safety and precision in LASIK vision correction. Using IntraLase®, Dr. Conlon is able to perform your refractive laser eye surgery without a blade. Combined with 'wavefront technology' the procedure is truly customized for your eye.
Cataracts are a very common aged-related condition. Dr. Conlon believes in customized cataract surgery with the use Premium Intra-Ocular Lenses to achieve excellent visual results. Cataract surgery can make a tremendous improvement in vision - even in the very elderly.
Rejuvenate and refresh your eyes with cosmetic eyelid surgery. Dr. Conlon one of the few ophthalmologists in Canada with specialized training in this area - Oculoplastic Surgery. Our medical team also includes a certified ophthalmic assistant, registered nurses, and consultant anesthetists. Your eyes are in good hands with us!
Complex eyelid problems require expert care. Your eyelids protect your eyes, and Dr. Conlon is uniquely qualified to prove address you eyelid needs, while understanding the implications for your vision.