Similar Outcomes in Femtosecond LASIK and SMILE

A recent study shows similar visual and refractive outcomes between eyes treated with femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK and something called small-incision lenticule extraction (smile), according to Healio.com. The findings of the study were presented at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery meeting in San Francisco.

All-laser LASIK procedures have become the norm. By using a laser not only to reshape the cornea but also to create the corneal incision, many doctors say the risk of flap-related complications are reduced.

The study subjects were 20 people, so 40 eyes altogether. Some people were treated with femtosecond LASIK surgery and others with the smile procedure.

To measure the results of the procedures, researchers assessed the patients before surgery, and then at 1 week after surgery, and 1, 3 and 6 months after surgery. The quality of distance vision for each procedure was comparable, with 20/25 or better in 86 percent of the LASIK patients and 95 percent of the smile patients.

There are many techniques in laser vision correction. As a patient, you should focus on choosing an experienced eye surgeon who you trust to make the right recommendations for you.

To schedule a consultation with an experienced LASIK surgeon in your area, please contact one through our directory.

Louisiana Eye Care Bill Concerns State Ophthalmologists

An eye care bill opposed by Louisiana's ophthalmologists passed out of the state legislature's committee earlier this week, but was pulled from the House floor by its author. House Bill 527 would have given optometrists the ability to perform certain injections and surgeries currently only performed by ophthalmologists.

Procedures not covered by the bill are LASIK, PRK, cataract surgery, and administering anesthesia by optometrists.

Optometrists argue the bill would give them oversight by their own board to diagnose and treat eye diseases. Ophthalmologists say this would provide two different standards of care since they are both already overseen by the same medical board. However, because only half of Louisiana's parishes have ophthalmologists, the optometrists say their care is necessary. Performing some glaucoma and cataract procedures in the state may only be available through an optometrist's care. Many patients do not travel, or unable to travel, the distance needed to see an ophthalmologist.

The difference in the training between optometrists and ophthalmologists is pretty stark. Optometrists are trained in optometry for four years after obtaining a bachelor's degree. Ophthalmologists go to medical school, do an internship, and then do three years of residency. This more than qualifies ophthalmologists to perform complex eye surgeries. Ophthalmologists believe that their experience and training means that they, and not optometrists, should continue to have carte blanche when it comes to eye surgeries for the patients of Louisiana.

Oklahoma and Kentucky already have similar laws.

If you have questions about any kind of eye care, including LASIK, please contact an experienced ophthalmologist in your area today.

What to Ask your LASIK Surgeon

If you are considering LASIK, you'll need to schedule a consultation or two with eye surgeons. When choosing an eye surgeon, you should ask questions about the doctor's experience, the practice and the suitability of the procedure for your vision.

Questions to ask may include:

• How many years have you been performing LASIK?
• Where did you receive your LASIK training?
• Will I be working with you throughout my care, or someone else in the practice?
• Do you use FDA-approved lasers and other LASIK technology?
• Will you be providing my post-operative care and follow-up visits?

Questions about your procedure:

• Am I a good candidate for LASIK? Why or why not?
• Do I have any viable LASIK alternatives to improve my vision?
• Are my corneas thick enough for LASIK to be successful?
• Will my vision results be permanent?

Feeling confident in choosing the procedure and choosing the right eye surgeon is important. The doctor should take the time to make sure all of your questions are answered and your concerns are addressed.

The eye surgeon should also detail how your preoperative and postoperative care will be handled. There should be follow-up appointments after LASIK to make sure you are getting effective vision results.

To find out if LASIK is right for you, please contact an experienced eye surgeon in your area.