Laser Vision Correction in Rhode Island

Refractive surgery refers to procedures that correct vision by reshaping the cornea of the eye. Certain vision errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), presbyopia (age-related near vision loss), and astigmatism are caused by a misshapen cornea, which affects the way light hits the retina. At Koch Eye Associates, we perform both LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) and PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) to adjust, improve, or correct your vision. The experts on our team will determine which procedure is best for you based on the condition of your cornea, as well as on your lifestyle and specific refractive errors. Contact our brand new, state-of-the-art LASIK center in Cranston, RI if you are curious about our cutting-edge refractive surgery technology or would like to schedule your complimentary LASIK evaluation.

Ideal candidates for refractive surgery are in generally good health, free of any eye disease, and have sufficient corneal thickness. Since both LASIK and PRK involve reshaping the cornea, there must be enough cornea present. PRK is often recommended for patients with thinner corneal tissue, previous LASIK surgery, or extremely active lifestyles. Most commonly, refractive surgery patients are interested in having better vision without having to deal with glasses or contact lenses. While many patients obtain 20/20 vision or better with refractive surgery, it is important to know that some patients do still require corrective lenses after the procedure. During your initial evaluation, a refractive surgery specialist will discuss your eligibility (corneal thickness), your realistic outcome expectations, and which procedure is best for you.

The Koch Eye Associates LASIK and Aesthetics Center in Cranston, RI offers both LASIK and PRK refractive surgery. Both of these procedures utilize advanced laser technology to change the shape of the cornea. The details of each procedure are outlined below:

LASIK –  LASIK eye surgery involves laser technology that creates a very thin flap in the cornea over the area that needs to be reshaped. This flap is repositioned to expose the middle layer of the cornea, which is reshaped using an excimer laser, and then the flap is placed back into position. The procedure is typically very quick, just a few minutes, and only requires about a day of downtime.

PRK – The first step in PRK surgery, unlike LASIK, is the actual removal of the top corneal layer. Then the middle layer is reshaped with the same excimer laser technology used in LASIK. Typically, a contact lens “bandage” is then placed over your eye while the removed cornea regenerates. PRK procedures last about 5 – 15 minutes, but they require more downtime to allow the cornea to heal and grow back.

After your refractive surgery, you will be required to come back for a few or several follow-up appointments, depending on your procedure and specific corneal condition. Your first follow-up will be the next day after your procedure, and the rest will continue for a few months to ensure that your eyes are healing properly. These visits are usually quite quick and involve vision exams as well. Every patient is different; many notice improved vision immediately or the next day, and others experience some blurriness or fogginess a little longer. No matter how well or how quickly your vision improves, it is vital that you attend your follow-up appointments so our experts can ensure your quickest and fullest recovery.

Though refractive eye surgery can often provide life-changing benefits, we do understand that it can be intimidating to consider. If you are interested in refractive surgery, schedule a consultation with one of Koch Eye Associates' ophthalmologists to learn about its advantages and safety. We are a team of experienced, skilled experts in a state of the art facility, who want to improve your quality of life through improving your vision.