Non-contact laser eye surgery
Since 1990 we have been correcting visual impairments such as farsightedness, nearsightedness, age-related farsightedness (presbyopia), astigmatism and mixed astigmatism. Treatment using lasers is especially worth considering when the patient suffers incompatibility with glasses or contact lenses or if such corrective measures are not possible due to professional reasons. In our practice, we work with cutting-edge medical and optical equipment and in accordance with the most recent scientific discoveries in ophthalmology.
Methods
The PRK method for corneas without scars
With this method, a computer-operated laser beam is used to precisely flatten a predetermined area of the sensitive cornea (for nearsightedness). The cuts for the treatment are so small they are measured in thousandths of microns and the surface of the cornea is changed without leaving a scar and without affecting the tissue under it. This way, those with nearsightedness, astigmatism and farsightedness regain their normal optical refractive power. Furthermore, the PRK method facilitates "rubbing out" scars and cloudiness on the cornea that often result from mechanical injuries or infections (such as herpes).
The eye surgery also has a therapeutic effect, is painless, only takes a few minutes and is an outpatient procedure that is performed with anaesthetic eye drops.
The LASIK method
Correcting near and farsightedness with the LASIK method
The procedure:
- The corneal flap is folded back with a microkeratome (micro scalpel) with an extremely fine cut of 160 µm.
- The common excimer Laser PRK in the stromal bed
- (stroma = connective supportive framework tissue).
- The corneal flap is then replaced and allowed to heal naturally.
Painless treatment for the eyes
One advantage is that the postoperative period is completely painless. Most patients already have achieved better vision by the next day. This combined technology has been used for several years and is especially recommended for more serious visual impairment.
TREATMENT
Preliminary consultation
Each step of the laser treatment procedure is discussed in an individual preliminary consultation.
Treatment preparation
After a thorough ophthalmologic preliminary examination, either an appointment is made for the operation or, at the request of the patient, preparations are made for the short procedure. The appropriate drops enable uncomplicated local anaesthesia.
Treatment procedure
During the actual laser treatment procedure on the affected eye, the first step is to remove the protective layer (PRK method). This process is hardly noticeable. After this, the excimer laser is deployed. This procedure lasts only a few seconds.
Post-op treatment
Following the treatment, a contact lens is inserted into the eye as a therapeutic bandage. We recommend avoiding stressful computer work for a few days after the treatment.
HISTROY
In ancient times
In ancient times and 2000 years ago in China, eyeglasses were already "fashionable". However, they were first used to improve vision in Arabia in the 11th century until they came to Europe via Venice by the end of the 13th century.
In 1900
The first attempts to remedy visual impairments directly on the cornea took place around one hundred years ago. But even in the 50s, manual corrections still went wrong, such as in Japan.
In 1970
It wasn't until the 70s that the Russian professor Fjodorow managed to correct nearsightedness using radially applied incisions called "radial keratotomy". The disadvantages of this widespread method were deep scarring as well as reduced stability and resilience of the cornea.
In New York, June 1983
Photorefractive corneal surgery is born and soon begins its triumphal progress around the world. Today, farsightedness, nearsightedness and corneal irregularities can be treated with the excimer laser technique successfully. Millions of patients around the world have already undergone this treatment. Moreover, scars that have formed on the cornea due to external influence and have a considerably effect on eyesight can virtually be "rubbed out" with the laser.