When most people think of vision correction surgery, they think of LASIK eye surgery. It’s true that LASIK gets most of the advertising, but did you know that there are at least half a dozen other vision correction surgeries available to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism? Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK surgery, but the good news is that the procedures that serve as alternatives to LASIK are often just as effective. Talk to LASIK specialist in Boston to find out which vision correction surgery is right for you.

LASIK Alternatives

Procedures like PRK attract far fewer patients and get much less attention than LASIK surgery. However, PRK is making a comeback thanks to advanced computer technology. Now, nearly 15 percent of laser vision correction patients will end up choosing PRK. The advantage of PRK, which stands for photorefractive keratectomy, is that it requires no cutting of the eye to create a corneal flap. Because no corneal flap is created there is less risk of nerve damage and painful dry eye. The only trade-off: PRK patients may experience hazy vision as their cornea heals after surgery. The recovery process also takes longer with PRK than with LASIK.

Another alternative to LASIK is CK, or conductive keratoplasty. CK is designed primarily to correct farsightedness and astigmatism. CK involves the use of radiofrequency waves to shrink corneal tissue, steepening the shape of the cornea.

There are also non-laser surgical procedures that can serve as an alternative to LASIK. One such option is implantable contact lenses, or ICLs. Implantable contact lenses are inserted into the eye through a small incision in the cornea. They are placed in front of the crystalline lens of the eye.

To schedule a LASIK or PRK consultation in Boston, contact New England Eye Center today.