What Are Custom LASIK, PRK, and ASA?
In the early days of LASIK, one of the biggest concerns was that, while the procedure was effective in addressing farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism, it did not address higher order aberrations. Indeed, in some instances, the procedure actually induced higher order aberrations. Higher order aberrations are those refractive errors that result from unique and subtle flaws in the shape of an individual’s corneas. They cannot be corrected by glasses or contact lenses, and, at one point, could not be corrected by laser eye surgery, either.
Fortunately, wavefront technology has made it possible for surgeons to tailor the LASIK, PRK, and advanced surface ablation (ASA) procedures to the individual patient’s eyes. The procedure not only improves the safety and efficacy of laser refractive surgery, but it also addresses higher order aberrations. Custom LASIK, PRK, and ASA allow patients to achieve crisper, clearer vision than ever before and increase the chances that they will be able to see without the aid of glasses or contact lenses.
Wavefront-guided LASIK, PRK, and ASA begin with the computer mapping of the patient’s corneas. These computer-generated maps are remarkably intricate, measuring even the slightest flaw in the shape of the corneas. This data is then used to guide the excimer laser that is used to reshape the cornea in all three surgical procedures. The goal is to produce corneas that are as perfect in shape as possible.
Custom laser eye surgery has revolutionized the field of ophthalmology. To learn more about custom LASIK, PRK, and ASA, please contact The Laser Vision Institute of the Virgin Islands.
