Vision Correction

San Francisco, Oakland & San Jose, California

Advanced Surface Ablation

LASIK is a revolutionary procedure that has helped millions have clear vision. But there are limitations as to who can achieve great results with this vision correction procedure. LASIK works great for most with low to moderate degrees of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. And, thanks to advanced technology like Wavefront mapping, Zyoptix and IntraLase flap creation, more patients are able to have this procedure due to enhanced precision and accuracy.

Unfortunately, some patients with extremely high levels of corneal abnormalities simply can't achieve ideal results with LASIK. Or they may have a chance at great results, but it comes with a price of increased risk. Those with extra-thin corneas are also considered to be higher risk LASIK patients, meaning that they may face greater complication probabilities or have less chance of achieving perfect vision.

These patients deserve to have the same chance at clear vision. That's why we offer advanced surface ablation at Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley. Unlike LASIK, there is no flap creation step in advanced surface ablation. The two procedures we offer are LASEK and PRK. Both procedures involve removing the eye's epithelium, or top corneal layer, to access the cornea for reshaping. In both vision correction procedures, a laser is used to reshape the cornea to correct myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Because there is no flap creation, complications associated with flap creation are completely eliminated, and other corneal complications are minimized.

LASEK (laser epithelial keratomileusis)

A safe alcohol solution is used to loosen and remove the epithelium cells. The laser beam targets the cornea and reshapes it based on your vision correction needs. Once the reshaping is complete, the epithelium is replaced and a contact lens is put in place to facilitate the healing process and protect the cornea.

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy)

With PRK, the top layer of epithelial cells are gently removed using a special handheld brush. The cornea is then reshaped to your specifications and a temporary contact lens is put in place. Contrary to LASEK, the epithelium is not replaced, but regenerates itself during the healing period.

Both procedures have unique benefits - Dr. Kawesch will discuss the options with you during a personal consultation and help you understand the risks as well as potential results.

Read more about advanced surface ablation:

• LASEK and PRK Safety and Effectiveness
• LASEK and PRK FAQ
• LASEK and PRK Post-op Care

Learn more about eliminating your dependence on glasses and contacts with advanced vision correction procedures of PRK or LASEK procedure. Call or email San Francisco's Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley for a comprehensive and informative consultation.