A LOOK AT LASER EYE SURGERY: HOW SAFE AND HOW EFFECTIVE?
What is laser eye surgery, also called photorefractive keratectomy? It’s a precise method of flattening the cornea to correct nearsightedness. A doctor uses the computerized laser system to remove a thin layer of tissue from the surface of the cornea. The goal is to eliminate or reduce a person’s need for contact lenses and glasses.
Who is a candidate?
About 90 percent of the 60 million nearsighted people in the United States are candidates. Some people who have too high a degree of astigmatism may not yet qualify for the procedure.
How safe is treatment?
After five years of studies, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the first two laser systems. Studies reviewed by the FDA showed that all treatment resulted in improved natural vision.
What is the treatment?
A few minutes before the procedure, a few eye drops are placed in the eye to numb it. The patient then reclines in a chair while the doctor inserts an instrument to keep the patient from blinking during the treatment. The doctor then uses a scalpel to remove the outer layer of the cornea. Next, the doctor uses the laser itself for about 15 to 40 seconds. The doctor places a contact lens over the treated eye to help it heal, and the patient is free to go home.
Most patients notice gradual improvement in vision during the first week although it can take about three months for vision to stabilize.
What is the treatment’s success rate?
Two-thirds of patients achieved 2 0/20 vision. About 90 percent achieved 2 0/40 vision, meaning they no longer needed contacts or glasses to pass a driving test.
What does treatment cost?
The cost is $1,750-$2,300 per eye, which includes follow-up care. Insurance generally does not cover the treatment.
What are the long-term risks?
FDA tests have followed patients for five years and haven’t found any long-term problems. Because of that, they believe the treatment’s results are permanent.
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