• LASIK VS. CLEAR LENS EXCHANGE

    Both LASIK and clear lens exchange can correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but they are distinctly different procedures. LASIK is an elective procedure that is intended to provide clear vision for people who wish to free themselves from prescription eyewear. Surgical lens implants are used to treat cataracts. With clear lens exchange, vision correction is simply an additional benefit.

    Differences Between LASIK and Clear Lens Exchange

    LASIK is performed by making a small incision in the outer layer of your cornea. Through this incision, a laser is used to reshape your cornea and provide clear vision.

    Lens exchange, commonly referred to as cataract surgery, also requires an incision in your cornea, but for this procedure it is done closer to the tear duct. Through this incision, your cloudy lens is removed and a clear lens is put in its place.

    With LASIK, recovery can take two to seven days and clear vision is often immediately apparent. With clear lens exchange, recovery may take more than one week and final results may take six to 12 weeks to become fully realized.

    These procedures are each intended to treat a specific problem. During your initial consultation with one of our Kansas City, Missouri eye surgeons, the procedure best suited to meet your needs will be determined.

    If you live in or around Kansas City, Missouri and would like to learn more about your vision correction options, please contact Silverstein Eye Centers to schedule an initial consultation today.

    Posted June 11, 2012 by Silverstein Eye Centers
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