The most common refractive surgery procedure of the cornea is LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis). In LASIK, laser energy is used to reshape your cornea, essentially sculpting your prescription into your eye. If the laser energy were applied directly to the surface of your eye, the treated area would be sore for several days during the healing process. To avoid this discomfort, a thin flap is cut on the surface of your cornea, then folded out of the way. Laser energy is then used to sculpt your exposed cornea to correct your nearsightedness. The flap is then put back into its normal position, covering the treated area. LASIK is nearly painless and highly successful. Most patients see the improvement in their vision immediately after surgery.

A slightly different procedure, called LASEK (laser epithelial keratomileusis), uses a thinner flap and is typically performed in people whose cornea is too thin or too flat for LASIK. In a third type of corneal refractive surgery, PRK (photorefractive keratectomy), no flap is made, and the laser directly sculpts the front surface of your cornea to flatten it.

Until recently, glasses and contacts were the only options available to correct refractive conditions. With the latest advances in Excimer Lasers and surgical procedures there are several other options available to correct vision problems. The important thing is to find the procedure that is best for your specific situation.

Dr. Watkins is regarded as a leader in the development and use of LASIK. Patients who have relied on eyewear for years are astounded at their ability to see objects clearly across the room, just minutes after the procedure. Dr. Watkins will work with you to determine which laser correction option is the best fit for your vision.

iLASIK, the revolutionary ALL-LASER surgical solution endorsed by top medical experts and the US military and astronaut programs can help adults reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. If you are seeking a Houston area LASIK specialist we are excited to introduce you to the ultimate in laser vision correction, it’s called the iLASIK™

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