Dr. Epitropoulos is committed to providing individualized care of unsurpassed quality to each of her patients.
Of all the technological advances made throughout eye care history, laser vision correction is perhaps the most exciting. Dr Epitropoulos directs a cool laser beam of light from the computer-guided excimer laser to precisely and gently reshape the cornea. Both LASIK and PRK are performed using the excimer laser, with excellent results. Dr Epitropoulos offers a complimentary consultation to those interested in laser vision correction.
Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA)
Advanced Surface Ablation is a laser vision procedure that has additional safety features over LASIK making it an ideal alternative for some patients. Instead of cutting a flap on the front of the cornea, the surface skin cells (epithelium) are loosened and removed. The corneal surface is then treated with the laser and covered with a bandage contact lens. The margin of safety with ASA may be greater than that of LASIK since there is no risk of flap complications. Patients can participate in activities without worrying about rubbing or bumping their eye after surgery and causing damage of a flap. The nerve endings that control tear production are not severed, so there is less risk of chronic dry eye postoperatively.
One of the disadvantages of ASA is slightly longer recovery and more discomfort postoperatively. Success rate is similar to LASIK.
LASIK Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis
A common method of correcting vision is a procedure called LASIK, which uses the same excimer laser to change the curvature of the cornea. LASIK is popular because patients vision recovers quickly after this procedure. In fact, most LASIK patients notice an improvement in their vision the following day. Rather than removing the epithelium as with ASA, a microkeratome is used to crease a flap which is folded out of the way. The excimer laser is used to gently reshape the cornea. Finally, the corneal flap is replaced and does not typically require sutures. The advantages of the flap creation are faster healing and minimal post operative discomfort.
Realistic Expectations after Laser Vision Correction
The goal of refractive surgery is to reduce your dependence on corrective lenses. The majority of patients are satisfied with their vision postoperatively, however we cannot guarantee that you will achieve the results that you desire. As with any surgical procedure there is a potential for risks or complications, but these can be reduced or eliminated with careful selection and thorough preoperative testing.
ASA is a better choice for those who is for those who:
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are over 18 years of age
want to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contacts
have no health issues affecting their eyes
have corneas too thin for LASIK
are involved in athletics
want to avoid LASIK flap complications
who cannot have LASIK because of eye pressure problems (glaucoma)
have a history of dry eyes
who cannot have LASIK because of corneal dystrophy problems
Alternatives to ASA
ASA is not the only surgical procedure designed to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. To learn about other procedures go to the surgical and laser vision correction procedures section of our Web Site. You may also choose to make an appointment or request additional information to learn more about this exciting procedure.
Call Refractive Line (Lasik, PRK) 614.887.2020
We will discuss the benefits, risks and costs. As always, Dr Epitropoulos strives to provide the latest proven solutions to protect and restore vision for you and your loved ones.
Dr. Epitropoulos has been recognized as one of America's Best Doctors.
Dr. Epitropoulos has been voted as one of the top refractive surgeons by fellow physicians in the Central Ohio.
