A refractive error in the eye is caused by a misshapen cornea that does not bend light correctly, so the patient sees things as blurred. Common and well-known examples of refractive errors include myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), and astigmatism. While many people use corrective lenses like glasses or contacts, refractive eye surgery in Jacksonville can also help people with such conditions.
What Does Refractive Eye Surgery Involve?
In refractive eye surgery, the doctor will reshape the cornea so that it bends light properly, allowing the patient to see clearly. There are several possible procedures, and the doctor will choose one that best fits the patient’s needs.
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is the best-known refractive eye surgery in Jacksonville. The surgeon will use an excimer laser to reshape the cornea by removing microscopically thin layers of cells. There are two types of LASIK: bladed and bladeless. In bladed LASIK, the surgeon uses a special tool called a microkeratome to cut a flap in the cornea. In bladeless LASIK, which is also called IntraLase, the surgeon uses a computer-guided laser to do the same thing. Before starting, the surgeon will apply numbing drops to the patient’s eye to keep them comfortable.
What Is an Implantable Contact Lens?
While LASIK and IntraLase are both effective, some patients are not good candidates for these procedures. The implantable contact lens, which is placed in the eye rather than on top of it, is an alternative for such patients. Patients with dry eyes, thin corneas, severe myopia, or certain illnesses are examples of patients who are generally not candidates for laser eye surgery.
After numbing the eye, the surgeon will make a tiny incision and insert the lens through it. The doctor will place the contact lens in front of the natural lens. The patient will then use eye drops and wear a protective shield over their eye until it heals.
