LASIK
LASIK, or “laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis,” is the most commonly performed laser eye surgery to treat myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism (spherical curvature of the eye/lens).
LASIK reshapes the cornea to enable light entering the eye to be properly focused onto the retina for clearer vision.
In most cases, laser eye surgery is pain-free and completed within 15 minutes for both eyes. The results — improved vision without eyeglasses or contact lenses — can usually be seen in as little as 24 hours.
LASIK is not advisable for everyone. Your doctor will carefully evaluate you to see if LASIK is right for you.
By age 65, over 90 percent of people have a cataract, and half of the people between the ages of 75 and 85 have lost some vision due to a cataract. Cataracts occur when the lens (cornea) of the eye becomes increasingly opaque. Learn more.
Oculoplastic/Eyelid
An oculoplastic surgeon is a highly specialized physician that has been extensively trained in both ophthalmology and plastic surgery. An oculoplastic surgeon is qualified and trained to treat medical and cosmetic conditions related to the face, particularly around the eyes, eyelids, forehead, eyebrows, and middle of the face. Not all ReFocus eye doctors will provide these services. Please make sure you ask your provider if he, or she, is qualified in, and regularly performs, oculoplastic surgery.
Common oculoplastic procedures
- Blepharoplasty – This surgery can correct droopy upper/lower eyelids, remove excess skin, muscle, or fat, among many other conditions. Blepharoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure and can be medically warranted.
- Entropian correction — Entropian is the medical term for an eyelid that rolls inward toward the eyeball. A simple, relatively painless surgery and medicated ointment remedy this issue.
- Ectropian correction — Ectropian means the lower eyelid is rolled outward from the eye. Almost all cases of ectropian can be easily corrected with a minor surgical procedure.
- Enucleation—This is the surgical removal of an eye, only recommended in a worst-case scenario. If you need this procedure, your ReFocus doctor will fit you with an artificial eye as a cosmetic substitute.
- Orbital fracture surgery — Trauma can damage the bony socket of the eye. If surgery is indicated, it’s best performed between day 4 and 14 following the injury.
- Eyelid tumor removal — These tumors can either be malignant or benign. A skilled ReFocus ophthalmologist can carefully remove the growth and reconstruct the eyelid, if necessary.
- Tear duct surgery—If your tear duct is blocked, DCR surgery is often advised. It can be either done endoscopically to avoid scarring or externally, depending on what your doctor advises.