Different Types of Laser Eye Surgery

There are a variety of different types of laser eye surgery that can be used to help correct many conditions suffered by the eye. From minor conditions to serious illnesses, laser eye surgery can help restore sight or even save it. The advancements in technology over the years have been huge and it has meant that many people around the world have been able to enjoy the benefits of renewed sight. This article looks at some of the different types of laser surgery.

Lasik surgery is one such type of laser surgery. It is an abbreviation of "Laser in situ Keratomileusis" and it can be used to help correct a number of refractive problems that can cause people to live their life with glasses or contact lenses. Anyone that has long or shortsightedness can have their vision corrected with Lasik surgery. A small cut into the cornea is made and laser is used to either flatten (in the case of those who are shortsighted) or make more curved (for those who are longsighted) the cornea. The procedure is painless because anesthetic drops are placed in the eye beforehand.

There are several types of Lasik surgery too. When a similar procedure to the one described above is carried out but without first making an incision of the cornea, this is called advanced surface ablation. Another type of Lasik surgery is blended vision. This is when the two eyes need treatment for two conditions, both long and shortsightedness that are affecting both eyes. There is also intraLasik surgery available which does not use a laser to make the incision in the eye. Wavefront surgery is also a type of Lasik surgery and this is tailor made to the individual. A 3D map of the eye is produced by a machine that can measure light as it travels through the eye. By comparing the patient's eye to one that is perfect, it is possible to determine exactly how the eye needs to be corrected to make their eye sight as perfect as possible.

Lasek surgery is another type of laser eye surgery. This is a bit like Lasik surgery although it is often the option for less severe cases or more minor conditions. It is also used on patients who have very thin corneas. Lasek stands for laser assisted epithelial keramileusis and rather than creating a flap over the cornea, the surface of the cornea is loosened and folded back. Lasek is just as effective as Lasik surgery, however recovery is slightly longer and the eyes may be more uncomfortable for a few days following surgery. Following Lasik treatment, patients often return to work a day or two later, but with Lasek surgery it may take a few days longer before normal life can return.

Undergoing a lens exchange is another type of surgery that is appropriate for some patients. Cataracts can be removed during a refractive lens exchange that uses ultrasound technology to break up and remove the cloudy lens of the eye. It is also possible for some people who are short or long sighted to have a refractive lens exchange. This can help eyesight a great deal and improve the ability to focus.

As well as refractive problems, laser eye surgery can help treat conditions such as glaucoma or wet and dry macular degeneration. These are all very serious and can lead to blindness if surgery is not undertaken. A form of Lasik eye surgery can be carried out to correct the problems and therefore prevent eyesight from getting any worse. There are different types of laser eye surgery and so you should speak to your eye doctor to discuss what would be appropriate for you and your condition.

By Kath Dawson

Eye Whitening Surgery - Facts About I-BRITE Conjunctiva Removal Procedure

The I-BRITE™ procedure is a no-stitch, no-graph conjunctiva removal procedure that whiten and brightens the eye by delicately removing excessive red veins, yellow growths, or areas of brown pigmentation.

I-BRITE™ is comfortable, quick and very easy to recover from. The white areas of the eyes (sclera) are covered by a thin membrane called the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is home to the majority of unsightly discolorations and red veins that make the sclera appear dull, dingy, unhealthy, bloodshot and more. Conjunctiva that is in poor shape can be efficiently removed, in which case it will regenerate. The crystal clear, newly-regenerated conjunctiva makes patients' eyes appear brighter and whiter than they can ever remember them being.

Benefits of I-BRITE™ eye whitening surgical procedure:

• 100% no-stitch, no-graft, very comfortable procedure;
• Removes the majority of red veins and the yellow/brown discoloration in the white areas of the eyes (sclera);
• Fast procedure: normally less than 1/2 hour to complete, per eye;
• Patients are able to return to work the day after the procedure in many cases;
• Full, brilliantly white results able to be seen in as little as four weeks;

The I-BRITE™ procedure instantly begins to rebuild faded confidence. Those afflicted with eye discoloration and red veins suffer. Often they report people accuse them of being overly tired, drunk, or high. After a quick 15 to 30 minute eye whitening procedure, years of suffering can be ended. A truly whiter, brighter future is able to be enjoyed.

Facts about the I-BRITE™ eye whitening surgical technique:

• Developed over 15 years by Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler;
• No lasers are used;
• Conjunctiva (thin membranes on outside of eye whites) are completely removed;
• Conjunctiva is the location of veins and discoloration;
• Patients enjoy a little Valium and Vicodin before the procedure;
• Procedure often takes less than 30 minutes per eye;
• Patients wear eye patches for 24 hours after surgery;
• Can return to work the following day in many cases, if desired;
• Patients should wear sunglasses when outside while healing;
• Instantly recognizable results continue to improve as new, crystal clear membranes (conjunctiva) regenerate;
• Anti-inflammatory/antibiotic eye drops will be used after surgery for 8 weeks to allow full recovery;
• Eyes may appear red for a week or two;
• Full "bright white" results achieved in 3 to 12 weeks after procedure;

I-BRITE™ eye whitening surgery techniques are designed to be minimally invasive, very comfortable and quick to recover from. Most of the time, the discoloration and red blood veins in eyes results from years of exposure to sunlight. After receiving the I-BRITE™ procedure, patients are more mindful about protecting their new, shiny eyes. They are much more likely to wear sunglasses whenever the risk of UV exposure presents itself. Those who take good care of their post-I-BRITE™ eyes can enjoy brilliantly white eye whites for decades to come.

What are the risks of side effects associated with the I-BRITE™ eye whitening procedure?

• Temporary redness and/or bruising after surgery;
• Temporary sensitivity to light;
• Some stinging when applying eye drops after procedure;
• Temporary swelling of eyelids;
• Some degree of temporary discomfort;
• Dryness while healing;

Although it's possible to return to work the day after the procedure, many patients take off for 4 to 7 days. Gardening and other dusty tasks should be avoided for 2 weeks after the procedure, as should swimming.

The I-BRITE™ surgical procedure is not recommended for women who are pregnant.

More facts about BRITE™ eye brightening techniques:

• Is available for appropriate candidates 16 and older;
• Very high success rates with very few instances of secondary surgeries being needed;
• Monthly follow-up appointments required for the first 3 months after procedure;
• Is possible those who wear contact lenses;
• Removes pterygium or pinguecula;
• Does not require amniotic membrane transplant (AMT);

What does the I-BRITE™ eye whitening procedure cost?

Most patients finance the procedures and pay monthly installments of roughly $175.

Depending on the severity of the condition of a patient's conjunctiva, the I-BRITE™ corrective procedure will cost between $3500 and $5500 per eye, if paid outright. Having the whiteness returned to discolored, bloodshot eyes restores confidence and makes life more enjoyable in general. The I-BRITE™ procedure for whitening eyes is the most modern and sophisticated technique available anywhere on the planet. Explore eye whitening further today and enjoy a clearer, whiter future!

By Dr. Brian Boxer-Wachler

LASIK Eye Surgery Dangers

LASIK eye surgery is utilised to handle people who have vision problems. The operation - also known as situ keratomileusis - utilises a laser to make its way underneath the flap of the cornea to help remold the cornea itself. When done the right way LASIK eye surgery will be efficient to repair certain vision problems that makes some people to put on contacts or glasses.
All The Same, like with any medical procedures there are particular pros and cons to deliberate. Many health experts do think that LASIK is a very good process and the majority of patients are pleased with the effects from it. Still, there are gambles involved that people should be made aware of. These risks should be weighed before you make you concluding decision to go through with the operation.
Under Eye Corrections
Betting on how advanced your vision problem is and how well the surgery is didst will determine whether or not one operation is adequate to adjust the trouble. While the majority of people see instant results after only just one operation there are others who are determined to do two in order to mend the problem and see any effects. This second operation will be utilized to focalize the vision and is most commonly for people with truly profound prescriptions. In order to implement the second surgery the patient must hold a few months after the first one to permit the eyes to heal and adjust.
Still Need Contacts And Glasses
It is very rare that individuals will have to wear glasses or contacts even after the operation - but it can happen. This will count on whether or not you have various vision problems and which one you are rectifying. It is best to talk to your doctor about this possibility.
Non Permanent Results
This is also very rare. There are some patients who will have their vision troubles come back after several years since the surgery was performed. Having this problem is more common in people who are older and whose vision is passing due to old age. It is possible to have another LASIK eye surgery to repair the troubles over again.
Visual Aberrations
Visual aberrations are specified visual effects that can occur during the reduction of visual quality and LASIK surgery. The most popular of these is anisometropia - the difference in the refractive power between both eyes, aniseikonia - the difference in the size of the image that is between both eyes, hazy vision, double vision, and the fluctuation of vision during the day time. These troubles are rare and may never go away.
Dry Eye
Several people will have symptoms of dry eye after the surgery. These symptoms may get worse and lead to inflammation, burning, and a reduction in vision after the surgery. The majority of the time this is a enduring condition - but there are medicines that can help you to produce tears.
Loss Of Vision
One of the worst LASIK eye surgery risks can induce such horrible vision problems that glasses and contacts cannot help to improve it. This could be caused by scarring, malfunctioning equipment, infection, or extreme corneal shape alterations.

By Naomi West

Six Foods That Improve Your Vision

You may already be stocking up on carrots to keep your vision in great shape, but did you know there are dozens of other foods that can reduce your risk of vision loss? Poor eyesight is often associated with aging and genetics, but experts suggest that eyesight damage can be prevented with everyday foods. Adding a few leafy greens, dark chocolate and garlic to your daily plate are just a few ways to keep your eyes - and body - in good health.
If you're concerned about vision loss and improving your eyesight, consider adding these six foods to your weekly menu:
1. Salmon - not only does salmon contain high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, but it's also full of Vitamins A and D. Together, these dietary essentials can help boost your brain power and improve eye health. Add at least 2-3 servings of fresh salmon to your weekly menu to optimize your diet.
2. Garlic - if you're suffering from poor circulation, eating garlic regularly can enhance blood flow and give your immune system a boost. Garlic is also rich in sulfur which is essential for keeping the lenses of your eyes strong and resilient. Fresh garlic is more potent than cooked varieties, and can easily be added to entrees for a more flavorful - and healthy - dish.
3. Dark chocolate - lauded for its antioxidant benefits, dark chocolate also contains flavanoids which are essential for a healthy heart. Flavanoids help to protect the blood vessels of the eyes so that the cornea and lens stay strong as you age. Purer forms of dark chocolate are the most potent, so look for chocolate bars that contain at least 60% cacao extracts for maximum health benefits.
4. Leafy green vegetables - you already know the importance of eating your greens each day, but all that spinach, broccoli and kale will provide essential vitamins and minerals for good eye health. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, spinach in particular contains high levels of the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin which are essential for protecting the eyes from degeneration (Source: Glaucoma.org). Eating your greens fresh is the best way to maximize their health benefits.
5. Bilberries - these dark purple berries contain anthocyanosides, a compound that may reduce the risk of vision loss. They're a tart and tasty fruit that can be eaten fresh, or enjoyed as a jam or jelly. Antioxidant-rich berries are another valuable source of nutrition that may also improve your eyesight.
6. Eggs - whether you enjoy them scrambled, boiled or sunny side up, eggs are a valuable addition to any diet. Egg yolks contain several essential nutrients and protein that can keep you healthy; in addition to lutein and essential fatty acids, eggs contain B-vitamins and zinc that are essential for overall eye health.
From dark chocolate to garlic, stocking up on these six essential foods can help you maintain a balanced diet and improve your eye health.
If you're concerned about vision loss and vision impairment, a consultation with a optometry doctor in your area can determine whether you're a good candidate for LASIK or corrective eye surgery. Still, preventive measures with some simple dietary changes may help you maintain healthy vision as you age.

By Sean M Reed