Types of Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery is the most commonly practiced procedure to correct vision problems caused by refractive errors, including myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness) and astigmatism (distorted vision when looking at objects at any distance).

There are different types of laser eye surgery. LASIK - laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis – is one of the most common. Many patients who have LASIK end up with 20/20 vision. But, like all medical procedures, it has both risks and benefits. Only your eye doctor can tell if you are a good candidate for laser eye surgery.

Laser Eye Surgery for Laser Vision Correction, such as LASIK, Custom LASIK, PRK, LASEK, Epi-LASIK and other specialized LASIK Eye Surgery procedures offer those who have nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism the possibility of freedom from the hassle of eyeglasses and contact lenses. This requires that patients participate in their care by becoming educated consumers as well as patients.

During laser eye surgery, a surgeon uses a laser device to make permanent changes to the shape of the cornea. The laser used most often is the Excimer laser, which produces a beam of ultraviolet light to vaporize tissue. Surgically altering the shape of the cornea can correct mild to moderate refractive errors in most people.

Laser Eye Surgery in general, the procedure itself, LASIK surgeons and their experience and education, practice locations, understanding the costs and potential risks and complications. Also, in order to make up to date information and current thoughts about Laser Eye Surgery procedures readily available, we have included a LASIK News & Updates section that will present selected summaries of noteworthy publications, case reports and research that might be useful in your overall personal education and decision process.

Types of Laser Eye Surgery
LASIK Laser Eye Surgery

LASIK is a surgical procedure that uses a laser to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and/or astigmatism. In LASIK, a thin flap in the cornea is created using either a microkeratome blade or a second laser. The surgeon fold backs the flap, and then removes some corneal tissue underneath using an excimer laser. The flap is then laid back in place, covering the area where the corneal tissue was removed.

LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis and is a procedure that permanently changes the shape of the cornea, the clear covering of the front of the eye, using an excimer laser. A knife, called a microkeratome, is used to cut a flap in the cornea. A hinge is left at one end of this flap. The flap is folded back revealing the stroma, the middlesection of the cornea.

When the vast majority of patients seriously consider Laser Eye Surgery it is common to encounter a number of different personal reasons why they do not wish to proceed. Usually these reasons can be separated into two categories-fear and cost.

PRK Laser Eye Surgery

PRK is a laser eye surgery procedure that treats nearsightedness, mild to moderate farsightedness and astigmatism by flattening the center of the cornea with cool beams of ultraviolet light. Based on the patient’s individual refraction, the computer generates an accommodating amount of laser light to remove a calculated amount of corneal tissue.

The laser eye surgeon uses an excimer laser to remove tissue from the surface of the cornea, allowing the cornea to focus light correctly. For nearsighted people, the doctor will perform PRK to flatten the too-steep cornea. For farsighted people, the doctor will use the laser to create a steeper cornea. Following PRK, vision begins to improve around three days following the treatment and steadily improves.

The Truth Behind Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery is a fairly common procedure in the UK, with about 100,000 people in Britain opting for the surgery each year. However, many people are unfamiliar with laser eye surgery, often assuming that it’s a major surgical procedure or one that poses high risks. In actuality, laser eye surgery entails a simple process with low risk levels. In fact, there have been very few reports of patients experiencing complications during laser eye surgery. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the basic facts before opting for the procedure.

One of the most common misconceptions behind laser eye surgery – apart from its general intricacy and risk levels – is that it’s a painful procedure. However, the patient’s eyes are numbed with a heavy local anaesthetic, meaning no pain is felt. At most, some patients will experience some discomfort in the days following laser eye surgery. Even this will subside within a few days.

Many people also assume laser eye surgery is for younger individuals. While eye surgery could be easier to perform on younger patients, older individuals are not disqualified. In fact, many laser eye surgeons treat patients between the ages of 18 and 70.

Another common concern among potential surgery candidates is whether the results of the procedure will last. The answer is that the effects of a laser treatment are permanent; however, your eyes may change over time, which could in turn alter your vision. For this reason, most surgeons recommend having laser eye surgery done after major eye changes have occurred in life – usually after the age of 18. If your post-surgery eyes do change over time, you can usually undergo an enhancement procedure.

Finally, many people assume that laser eye surgery is very costly – after all, it’s a surgical procedure. However, laser eye surgery has become increasingly affordable over the years, and it’s now possible to have the procedure done without breaking the bank. Many surgeons also offer payment plans, making it even simpler to obtain the procedure. Once your suitability for laser eye surgery is determined, you should discuss payment options with your surgeon.

Of course, the only way to confirm your suitability for laser eye surgery is through an eye exam with a certified eye surgeon. By undergoing an exam, a surgeon can also determine the type of laser eye surgery that’s right for you, as well as the results that you can expect. So, while it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the facts behind laser eye surgery, the next step entails consulting with a certified laser eye surgeon.

Plastic Surgery and Frequently Asked Questions

The predominance of plastic surgery in the news and on the internet has made it common knowledge to the general puiblic. But yet many have misconceptions aboout what plastic surgery is and does. Here are some of those questions....and answers.

Why is it called "plastic" surgery?

From the Greek word, plastikos, comes the meaning of plastic surgery, to mold or shape. That is also the origin for the name of the man-made material that is found almost everywhere today -plastic. Plastic is part of most everyday materials, from creedit cards to window shades, as it can be made into any physical form.

The term "plastic surgery" then refers to surgery that molds or shapes the human body. Unfortunately, despite the latest advances in plastic surgery, we still cannot mold the human body into any desired form. And we very rarely (with the exception of breast implants) actually use a plastic material to do the surgery. We can, however, make a big difference in either sculpting one's face or body for cosmetic purposes or reconstructing a missing or lost body part by using today's state-of-the-art surgical techniques.

What is the difference between plastic surgery, cosmetic surgery, aesthetic surgery, and reconstructive surgery?

Aesthetic surgery, cosmetic surgery, and plastic surgery potentially all refer to the same type of surgery; surgery done to change a physical structure that is otherwise normal or improve appearance. This is why cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance.

Reconstructive surgery is performed to reshape abnormal structures of the body, from either accidents, injuries, infections, cancers, or other diseases, as well as congenital deformities. These types of problems are usually covered by your medical insurance.

What are the most common cosmetic plastic surgery procedures?

In 2005, 10.Several million cosmetic procedures were performed in the U.S of which 1.8 million were actual intraoperative surgeries. Total U.S. revenues generated from these procedures was 9.4 billion dollars.. The five most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the United States are nose reshaping, liposuction, eyelid surgery, breast augmentation, and facelift. With the latest innovations in cosmetic plastic surgery, patients may now benefit from more natural results, faster recovery, and safer procedures. Consequently, more and more people have decided to take advantage of these advanced procedures to help them their appearance or restore a more youthful look. In fact, the number of people choosing cosmetic plastic surgery has nearly tripled in the past 10 years!

The most popular plastic surgery procedures for women include nose reshaping, liposuction, breast augmentation, eyelid surgery, facelift, brow lift, tummy tuck, and breast lift. Men also have nose reshaping, liposuction, eyelid surgery, facelift, as well as surgery to treat gynecomastia, or male breast reduction.

Why is rhinoplasty so popular?

The first plastic surgery performed, thousands of years ago, was nasal surgery in India and Egypt. People have had concerns about their noses for a long time! The popularity of rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) is due to its effectiveness at changing the shape of the nose (as the whole appearance of the face) as well as improving breathing through the nose. Rhinoplasty can reduce or increase the size of the nose, change the shape of the tip or bridge, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between the nose and the upper lip. It may also correct a birth defect or injury, or help relieve some breathing and sinus problems.

Common reconstructive plastic surgery procedure would be?

In 2005, 5.1 million reconstructive procedures were performed by plastic surgeons in the U.S. The top five procedures performed include skin cancer removal, laceration repair, scar revision, hand surgery, and breast reduction

Plastic Surgery and Liposuction Pakistan

Cosmetic Surgery defined as a subspecialty of surgery that uniquely restricts itself to the enhancement of appearance through surgical and medical techniques. It is specifically concerned with maintaining normal appearance, restoring it, or enhancing it beyond the average level toward some aesthetic ideal. In 2006, nearly 11 million cosmetic surgeries were performed in the United States alone.

'Plastic surgery' and 'cosmetic surgery' are two important words to distinguish apart. Plastic surgery is a specialized type of surgery dedicated to the repair of bodily form and function. This includes both cosmetic surgery and reconstruction surgery. The term 'cosmetic surgery' specializes on the improvement of appearance alone. Cosmetic surgery procedures are used in many other surgical disciplines such as dermatology, general surgery, plastic surgery, otolaryngology and oculoplastic surgery.

'Cosmetic surgery' and 'plastic surgery' are not the same so it is important to distinguish the differences. Cosmetic surgery specializes in the improvement of appearance alone. There are many other surgical procedures that require the knowledge of cosmetic surgery. Contributing disciplines to cosmetic surgery include maxillofacial surgery, otolaryngology, dermatology and general surgery. Plastic surgery, however, specializes in the repair of form and function, it includes cosmetic surgery but also includes reconstructive surgery.

'Plastic surgery' and 'cosmetic surgery' are two important words to distinguish apart. Plastic surgery is a specialized type of surgery dedicated to the repair of bodily form and function. This includes both cosmetic surgery and reconstruction surgery. The term 'cosmetic surgery' specializes on the improvement of appearance alone. Cosmetic surgery procedures are used in many other surgical disciplines such as dermatology, general surgery, plastic surgery, otolaryngology and oculoplastic surgery.

How Gastric Bypass Surgery is Saving Lives

Many people suffering from morbid obesity find it difficult to lose weight through traditional means of healthy eating and exercise. Gastric bypass surgery is saving lives with an effective method for weight loss and lifelong weight management. With the help of gastric bypass surgery, patients are able to lose weight and resolve health conditions associated with obesity. Learn more and discover if gastric bypass surgery is right for you.

The Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery is the top weight loss surgery
in the United States. It’s considered safer and more effective than all other weight loss surgeries. When accompanied by behavioral modification through diet and exercise, gastric bypass surgery can improve the quality of life.

Gastric bypass surgery is not just about losing weight. Many people who are severely overweight may suffer from high blood pressure and cholesterol, Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, reflux disease and sleep apnea, among other health conditions. Gastric bypass surgery can be the road to a healthier way of life.

How Gastric Bypass Surgery Works

Gastric bypass surgery achieves weight loss by altering the digestive system. The procedure takes a small section of the stomach and attaches it to the lower intestine, bypassing the lower stomach and nutrient absorbing duodenum. The small pouch collects food, limiting the amount a patient can intake and digest.

Am I a Candidate for Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery may be an option for patients who have not achieved weight loss results through traditional diet and exercise. Gastric bypass surgery is for people who are morbidly obese and suffer from weight related health conditions. General criterion for gastric bypass surgery is a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater. You may also qualify with a BMI of 35 or higher if you have weight related health conditions.

Is Gastric Bypass Surgery Right for Me?

An important thing to keep in mind is that the gastric bypass surgery procedure is not a substitute for traditional weight loss methods. If you elect to have gastric bypass surgery, you must follow specific diet and exercise directions assigned by the medical staff. Your success is largely dependent on your ability to develop healthy eating and exercise habits.

In order to qualify for gastric bypass surgery, you will need to complete a thorough screening process. An examination by a staff of medical professionals, including a physician, surgeon, psychologist and dietitian is necessary. The doctors will evaluate your medical history, current health risks and psychological profile to determine whether gastric bypass surgery is a suitable route to take.

What is the procedure like?

Gastric bypass surgery usually takes around four hours to complete. Because the procedure requires a general anesthesia, a hospital stay between three and five days is required. Medical professionals will also want to monitor the success of your surgery.

Following the procedure, you will follow a strict 12-week diet in order to slowly reintroduce solid foods. Adjusting to the new size of your stomach can prove somewhat difficult. You’ll need to eat very small meals throughout the day to avoid vomiting and chest pains. You can increase your food intake with time, but never to the level prior to gastric bypass surgery.

Considerable weight loss occurs in most patients who successfully follow a recommended diet and exercise program outlined by the doctor. The average loss of excess weight is 75 percent after one year. Continued efforts on your part contribute to even more weight loss.

Gastric Bypass surgery and Cosmetic Surgery

A number of options for cosmetic surgery are available to deal with excess skin after weight-loss surgery. Patients who have lost a substantial amount of weight may benefit from a body lift, which provides a comprehensive approach to body contouring for excess skin. A body lift can also be combined with cosmetic laser surgery to diminish scars and stretch marks. You can find out more about your options for cosmetic surgery after gastric bypass, as well as, cosmetic surgery financing through DocShop.com.

Understand the Risks of Gastric Bypass Surgery

As with all other surgeries, gastric bypass surgery comes with its own set of possible risks and complications. Some of the more serious risks include blood clots in the legs, stomach leakage, pneumonia and death. Other less severe complications may include vomiting and diarrhea, nausea, dehydration, gallstones, hernia and vitamin deficiency.

Common Plastic Surgery Mistakes

All humans are prone to errors and mistakes. Physicians and surgeons are no exception. Mistakes during ordinary surgeries occur from time to time. Plastic surgery is an even more delicate practice that requires lot of skill and experience on the part of plastic surgeons. Majority of the common plastic surgery mistakes occur due to improper procedural performances, minor surgical errors, and incorrect post-operative care. Nearly all the common plastic surgery mistakes can be avoided by proper screening of the patient and adequate preparation before the surgery. Some of the most common plastic surgery mistakes are presented below.

Plastic Surgery Mistakes in Facial Surgeries

If mistakes occur in facial plastic surgery procedures, they are highly visible. At the same time, they are also difficult to repair. The patient is likely to have an unnatural or wooden look, if mistakes occur in facial surgeries. If any nerve is accidentally damaged or skin tissue is tightened excessively, it can lead to partial or complete paralysis. Further, asymmetry in facial parts, gross disproportions, excess scarring, hardening of facial tissues, and harmful implant leaks are also possible when mistakes occur in facial plastic surgery procedures.

Plastic Surgery Mistakes in Other Body Parts

The common plastic surgery mistakes in other body parts can be easily masked but the health related issues due to such mistakes cannot be avoided. The patients must face the consequences of these mistakes, irrespective of the visibility or non-visibility of the surgery errors. In many cases, the problems are not just physical ailments or disorders but the patients undergo serious psychological and emotional trauma also. In several instances, the patients had been found to be suffering from a guilty consciousness that they had been punished for their efforts of vanity. This poses a grave problem to the patients who had been the victims of common plastic surgery mistakes.

Rectification of Common Plastic Surgery Mistakes

As soon as you notice any difficulty after a plastic surgery procedure, you should immediately contact the plastic surgeon who undertook the surgery operation. Most of the plastic surgery mistakes can be corrected without harmful side effects. In fact, several specialty plastic surgeons concentrate solely on surgical repair of the common plastic surgery mistakes. As such, you need not worry too much about minor mistakes in plastic surgery. Still, at times, the mistakes can prove too costly and the only recourse may be seeking adequate compensation.

Still, it is important to ensure before any plastic surgery procedure that the plastic surgeon is an accredited and certified plastic surgery practitioner. It is also advisable to enquire from past patients of that surgeon about the success rate in previous surgeries done by that surgeon. In spite of such precautions, if plastic surgery mistakes do occur, the concerned plastic surgeon is bound to correct the problem without charging anything extra. If that surgeon is not capable of correcting the mistake, then you can even claim the cost of the corrective surgery procedure and compensation for physical and mental anguish from the one who had done the initial mistake, after correction of the mistake by another expert surgeon.