Laser eye surgery: what you need to know
If wearing glasses or contact lenses is becoming a drag, you may be pleasantly surprised to discover just how easy and affordable laser eye surgery can be.
Laser eye surgery can transform your vision, enabling you to leave your glasses and contact lenses behind. And the good news, is that the procedure is relatively quick and simple.
What is laser eye surgery?
Many Australians utilise laser eye surgery every day to treat their vision problems. The procedure is safe, painless, and is performed by our highly-trained team who have specialist training in diagnosing and treating eye and visual disorders.
During the procedure, a laser emits concentrated ultraviolet light to permanently reshape the surface of your cornea. The type of ‘cool’ laser used in the surgery is called an excimer laser. This device is carefully controlled using computer technology.
Common vision problems treated with laser surgery
The most common vision problems that can be corrected with laser eye surgery include short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), cataracts and astigmatism—distorted curvature of the lens which can cause problems focusing.
At NewVision Clinics, we’re able to treat over 95 per cent of patients who visit us, including those who have been told elsewhere that their condition is untreatable. This is because our laser eye surgeon, Dr Noel Alpins AM, one of the best in the world, has developed advanced laser methods and specialist treatments for astigmatism not commonly used anywhere else.
Dr Alpins continues to stay at the forefront of all new trends and scientific breakthroughs surrounding vision and eye health. He is also recognised nationally and internationally as a leading world authority on myopia and astigmatism treatment with the excimer laser, and as a prominent cataract and refractive surgeon. Since 1991, he has treated more than 20,000 patients via laser eye surgery.
Treating common vision problems
While many vision problems can be corrected through laser eye surgery, there are some circumstances which may preclude you from being a suitable candidate. Instances where you may not qualify for surgery include:
- being under 18 years of age
- your spectacle prescription is still changing
- you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
- you have an eye disorder, disease or autoimmune disorder.
To discover your eligibility, we recommend you book a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our highly-trained team members, who will assess your vision and overall health, and advise if you are a candidate for surgery.
Treatment options
If you’re a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery, your treatment will depend upon your needs and the type of vision problem being corrected. In the clinic, we use both PRK and LASIK surgery options.
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) technology was developed prior to LASIK over 20 years ago, and has continued to undergo many advances and innovations since. This procedure involves gently polishing a very thin layer of the cornea, before using the laser to sculpt the cornea into a new shape.
LASIK (laser-assisted-in-situ-keratomileusis) is used in around 80 per cent of patients who undergo laser eye surgery. It’s highly effective in correcting long-sightedness, short-sightedness and astigmatism. During this procedure, a thin flap is created in the cornea, which is then folded back, so the laser can reshape the tissue underneath.
LASIK eye surgery also offers the fastest recovery time, with the least amount of discomfort involved.
Both treatment options are performed using local anaesthetic eye drops, with the procedure taking between five and 10 minutes per eye.
Because treatment is quick and convenient, and your vision improved relatively quickly after the surgery, there’s no need to take extended leave from your job. In some cases, just one or two days of rest after your procedure is all that’s needed.
Benefits of laser eye surgery
Those who undergo a procedure usually wish to reduce their dependence upon glasses or contact lenses. They may experience difficulty wearing contacts, are unwilling to wear glasses, or they participate in work or leisure activities that are difficult to undertake while wearing these devices.
At NewVision Clinics, the vast majority of treatments will modify the cornea permanently, meaning you can get rid of your glasses or contact lenses without the need for further procedures. Occasionally regression may occur, however we are usually able to correct this with an additional treatment at no charge.
Why choose us
We understand that the process of undergoing laser eye surgery can be overwhelming. That’s why our caring, qualified staff are with you every step of the way. Dr Alpins has extensive experience and recognition in the field of vision and laser eye surgery. He has pioneered new methods for treating and analysing astigmatism, including developing a surgical planning outcomes analysis software program called ASSORT®, used by ophthalmologists worldwide.
Dr Alpins has significantly contributed to the ongoing innovation and development of cataract and refractive surgery, through his research, and has received a number of awards, recognising his contribution to the field of refractive surgery.
Our highly-qualified team, led by Dr Alpins, work across all three clinics and can perform a broader scope of surgeries than most other vision clinics.
When you visit our state-of-the art clinics, you will see the same doctor throughout the whole process—from assessment through to the actual surgery—which means they will know the details of your eyes better than anyone else.
We also offer affordable laser eye surgery with monthly payment plans, and rebates from some health insurance companies. Compared with the ongoing cost of glasses and contact lenses, the procedure will pay for itself within a few years.
So, if you’re ready to find out if laser eye surgery is the answer to your vision problems, call NewVision Clinics today on 1800 20 20 20 and get started on your journey to better vision. Alternatively, head to our online booking form to lock in your no-obligation consultation.
Nerissa Bentley, Health Writer