A variety of treatments are available that correct refractive errors by changing the shape of the cornea. Through a process known as Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) or Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK), mild to high amounts of nearsightedness is corrected using laser light energy produced by the excimer laser. Across the world, over 2,000,000 nearsighted people now enjoy clearer vision having undergone laser vision correction.
A new, non-laser surgical procedure to correct mild nearsightedness is now available: Corneal Ring Segments. Corneal rings are surgically placed through a tiny incision that is made on the cornea. Once in place, the two arcs flatten the cornea so that light rays can properly focus on the retina. Since the rings are inserted in the outer edge of the cornea, the center of the cornea remains untouched.
LASIK, or laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, combines delicate surgical procedures and laser treatment. First surgically a “flap” of corneal tissue less than a third the thickness of a human hair is created the flap to one side is lifted. Laser energy is applied to reshape the cornea according to carefully calculated measurements. When treating nearsightedness, laser is used to decrease the cornea’s relative curvature. When treating farsightedness, the cornea’s relative curvature is increased and then the corneal flap is repositioned. A naturally-adhering bandage, the flap helps to improve results and speed recovery. LASIK may be used for nearsightedness, nearsightedness plus astigmatism, farsightedness, and farsightedness plus astigmatism.