PRK, LASEK, ReSTOR® IOL, Visian ICL™
PRK/Epi-LASIK
Like LASIK, PRK and Epi-LASIK are types of refractive surgery that correct visual imperfections by reshaping the cornea. The same anesthetic eye drops that are used in LASIK are used in the PRK and Epi-LASIK treatments, and all three procedures use the excimer laser to reshape the cornea. The main difference between these procedures is in how the underlying corneal tissue is exposed. In LASIK, the surgeon uses a laser or microkeratome to create a flap in the superfical corneal. In PRK, however, the surgeon uses an ultraviolet laser to remove the corneal epithelium. In Epi-LASIK, the surgeon uses an epikeratome to separate the epithelium from the cornea.
After PRK and Epi-LASIK, the patient must wear bandages or special contact lenses to assist in the proper regrowth of the corneal epithelium. Complete regrowth takes three to five days, and visual acuity returns more slowly, but the long-term improvements associated with LASIK, Epi-LASIK, and PRK are virtually identical. PRK and Epi-LASIK can be more effective than LASIK in certain cases, such as when patients have corneas too thin for LASIK.
ReSTOR® IOL – Multifocal Cataract Replacements
The ReSTOR® intraocular lens is the newest treatment designed to help cataract sufferers. A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in the eye that can cause blurred vision and other problems. Cataracts are a natural part of the aging process for many people.
Cataracts are corrected by surgically removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial, intraocular lens. The Acrysof® ReSTOR® IOL is a multifocal intraocular lens that can replace clouded lenses, and provide patients with clearer distance and reading vision. The majority of patients who have received ReSTOR® IOLs have reported that they no longer rely on glasses for any activities.
Visian ICL™ – Implantable Contact Lenses
The Visian ICL™ is a phakic intraocular lens, meaning that, unlike the ReSTOR® lens, it is implanted without removing the eye’s natural lens.
The ICL can be used as an alternative to laser refractive procedures such as LASIK or PRK. One of the benefits of ICL surgery is that ICLs can be replaced or removed if there are major changes in the patient’s vision. The best candidates for Visian ICL™ surgery are patients between 21 and 50 with moderate to severe nearsightedness (myopia).
Contact Utah Valley Eye Center to schedule a consultation today. We can help you determine if LASIK, PRK, ICLs, or IOLs are right for you.
Utah Valley Physicians Plaza
1055 North 300 West, Suite 204
Provo, Utah 84604
P: 801-357-7373
F: 801-357-7217