RefractiveSurgery
Although Christopher Nixon Optometrists don't offer refractive surgery, we are always happy to discuss it with you. We can talk through the different options, make recommendations and refer you to a named ophthalmologist at one of the private clinics locally.
Laser Eye Surgery
The use of laser to reshape the surface of the eye and correct hyperopia, myopia and astigmatism is now a relatively common procedure. With the advent of new techniques and more accurate lasers it has also become relatively safe and predictable.
There are a number of different techniques including:
- LASEK - a corneal surface treatment involving the removal of epithelial cells with an alcohol solution followed by tissue removal by excimer laser. This is a similar procedure to the original PRK.
- LASIK - the deeper layers of the corneal stroma are treated with excimer laser following the production of a replaceable flap. This is the most common procedure.
- SMILE - flap-less laser eye surgery that can offer correction for patients that may not have been suitable for more traditional forms of laser eye surgery. This is the newest procedure and uses a femtosecond laser to sculp an intrastromal lenticule within the corneal tissue that is removed via a tiny insision.
Refractive Lens Exchange
Refractive lens exchange surgery can correct both myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism whilst preventing or removing cataracts in one simple, permanent lens replacement procedure.
Ideal for the over 50s, the refractive lens exchange procedure permanently replaces the natural lens of the eye with a multifocal artificial lens. The aim of the procedure is to significantly reduce and in many cases eliminate the need for bifocal, multifocal or reading glasses.