People looking into eye improvement surgery are sometimes met with the disappointing conclusion that their situation does not qualify for LASIK eye surgery. If you have found yourself in the same situation but are still among the many who desire eye improvement surgery, then there are several LASIK alternatives that you can consider.
Visian ICL
If you have thin corneas or dry eyes that have made LASIK surgery impossible, Visian ICL is an excellent treatment to look into. Visian ICL are implantable contact lenses that do not involve any laser procedures. The implantable contact lens is an implant that is inserted into the eye through a tiny incision created by an experienced eye surgeon.
This procedure is a great alternative to traditional contact lenses or glasses, as the lenses are implanted into the eye, thus eliminating any worries of lost lenses or eye glasses. Visian ICL is usually performed on candidates between the ages of 21 and 45 who are nearsighted, do not contain astigmatism, and struggle with dry eyes, sever myopia, or thinner corneas.
Photo Refractive Keratectomy (PRK)
PRK is somewhat similar to LASIK surgery in the sense that a laser is used to improve the patient’s eyesight. This treatment is geared toward candidates who have corneas that are too thin to undergo LASIK surgery. During the surgery, the outer layer of the cornea is removed using a blade, brush or dilute chemical solution. Unlike LASIK, a flap inside the cornea does not need to be created. Once the top layer of cornea is removed, the surgeon then reshapes the remaining cornea using a laser procedure similar to that of LASIK.
The con to PRK is that recovery time will be longer than with LASIK and may cause discomfort after the operation. If you are considering PRK, keep in mind that you will probably need at least two weeks for recovery. The candidates for PRK suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
If you are over the age of 45 and have not been accepted as a LASIK candidate, RLE is a great alternative solution. As age creeps upon everyone, nearsightedness often occurs, making it difficult to see anything up close. RLE replaces the natural lens inside the eye with an artificial lens, which improves range and focusing abilities. Similar to cataract surgery, a small incision is made in the cornea and the clouded lens is suctioned out using a small medical instrument. Then the surgeon replaces it with an intraocular lens that works to correct failing vision for all ranges. The ideal RLE candidates are over the age of 45, have developed nearsightedness, and are people who want to prevent the possibility of developing a cataract.
Conclusion
Eyeglasses and contact lenses are not the only solution for failed LASIK candidates. Clear eyesight is still within reach with safe, alternative medical procedures. Talk to your doctor and consider these paths for obtaining your new vision.
