What is the difference between Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) and Laser Cataract Surgery? While both procedures improve and correct your vision in similar ways, they are surprisingly completely different. Both procedures can correct myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, but LASIK is corneal-based, and laser cataract surgery is lens-based.
LASIK vs. Laser Cataract Surgery: Understanding the Differences
Both LASIK and laser cataract surgery are laser-based procedures conducted under local anesthesia while you’re awake. Both procedures share quick completion times and minimal recovery requirements. However, their purposes and the conditions they address differ significantly.
Laser Cataract Surgery:
This procedure is recommended if you have cataracts whereby your eye’s natural lens has become clouded. Symptoms include blurred vision and difficulty reading. The process involves three main steps: preparation with eye drops and local anesthetic, removal of the cloudy lens, and replacement with an intraocular lens (IOL). This is performed with the precision of lasers. It’s important to note that laser cataract surgery also corrects astigmatism. The procedure is typically performed on one eye at a time.
LASIK Surgery:
Also known as Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, LASIK corrects myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and blurred vision by reshaping the cornea. It encompasses anesthetizing your eye with topical drops, creating a corneal flap with a femtosecond laser, reshaping the cornea using another laser, and replacing the corneal flap. LASIK is often performed on both of your eyes simultaneously.
When to Consider Each Procedure?
LASIK Surgery:
Consider LASIK if you’re experiencing myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or blurred vision due to astigmatism, or if you desire reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
Laser Cataract Surgery:
Consider this procedure if you experience symptoms such as clouded or blurred vision. You may also have difficulty seeing at night and sensitivity to light. Other symptoms of cataracts include needing bright light to read as well as halos around lights. Frequent changes in glasses prescription or fading/yellowing of colors can be symptoms of cataracts as well.
An eye exam with an eye doctor is important for accurate assessment and guidance. At Laser Eye Surgery of Erie, we can guide you as to the best course of treatment for your eyes.
Schedule Your Appointment with Laser Eye Surgery of Erie Today!
Links below
https://www.erielasereye.com/our-services/lasik-prk-eye-surgery/
https://www.erielasereye.com/our-services/cataract-surgery-with-dr-haverly/
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/ask-ophthalmologist-q/lasik-with-cataracts
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