Laser or Lens Surgery: When is the best time to act?
Posted on Tue, Dec 06, 2011 @ 04:34 PM
For those considering Laser or Lens Surgery, 
we often hear "Will the technology improve in the future and if so, should I wait to have surgery?" It's one of many questions those who wish to undergo Surgical Vision Correction should ask. Since the question is really a two part inquiry, we need to examine each part on its own merit.
The nature of technology is dynamic: it will never stand still. As long as researchers and clinicians search for the means to achieve better vision, there will be ongoing incremental improvements offering greater precision and therefore better vision. The differences will be subtle but may provide greater assurance for those that require it.
The answer to the second part of the question is "it depends". No one answer meets all expectations. A better decision making process involves answering some other key questions:
- what do I want to achieve by having Laser or Lens surgery?
- does the existing technology already deliver what I'm looking for?
- what are my greatest concerns about the current technology?
- what alternatives do I have if I choose to wait?
Laser Technology
Laser surgery has developed remarkably over the past 23 years. Each new development has addressed earlier problems and improved vision and the recovery experience. PRK has been largely replaced by LASIK, and now bladeless LASIK, in the form of IntraLASIK has replaced the earlier technique. Lasers themselves have undergone major changes from delivering a generalized treatment through either a circular or slit type aperature to customizing treatment with a fine "flying spot" computer controlled beam. The development of Wavefront technology has further refined the way we view your eyes and enables us to correct fine irregularities to improve the quality of vision, including night vision. A large range of vision correction from nearsightedness to farsightedness with or without astigmatism is available. The technology exists today to provide freedom from glasses or contacts for the vast majority of those who undergo Laser Surgery.
Lens Technology
Lens replacement surgery has also progressed significantly. Artificial lens implants have improved and now offer more features than ever before. Foldable lenses are available in a biocompatible acrylic composition that permits the surgeon to create the smallest incision possible to achieve both removal of your natural lens and replacement with the lens implant. This leads to minimal distortion and rapid recovery. As well, lenses can now correct nearly every range of nearsightedness and farsightedness with or without astigmatism. The latest generation of lenses that interest Baby Boomers are multifocal lenses that correct distance and reading vision with or without astigmatism. With such a wide range of lens implants, there has never been a better time to consider replacing your natural lenses.
No surgery is guaranteed without risks but excellent quality vision is available now. Reducing your risk of surgery is largely a matter of selecting a skilled surgeon to perform the procedure with the latest technology. Reputable surgeons will inform you of the risks in advance and assist you with making an informed decision.
Alternatives to Surgical Vision Correction
Choosing to delay your decision is always an option. It means you will continue to require correction with all the limitations you currently experience. While new techniques and technology deliver excellent vision, comfort and convenience, only you can decide the best time to act. We wish you the best with your deliberations!
Ready for More?
For more information about Laser or Lens Surgery, we offer complimentary Surgical Vision Correction presentations. You can register at: Demong Seminar or you may wish to arrange your consultation now.