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We offer an extensive ophthalmic surgical network of brands with offices throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New York, and New Jersey. Our centers provide innovative surgical solutions partnered with ophthalmology practices to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients. OOMC is pleased to provide the highest level of expertise in the ophthalmic treatment space.
PRK, Visian ICL and Refractive Lens Exchange are three advanced and simple surgeries that can give you the crystal-clear eyesight you need. To learn more about these procedures, here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about PRK, Visian ICL and Refractive Lens Exchange.
PRK stands for Photorefractive Keratectomy, a procedure that reshapes the cornea to permanently correct refractive vision errors. PRK typically results in 20/20 vision and is a great alternative for those who do not qualify for LASIK.
PRK surgery takes about 10 minutes for both eyes and only involves a few steps: 1. Using an advanced laser, the surgeon removes the outer layer of the cornea. 2. Then, an excimer laser is used to reshape the exposed corneal tissue based on your refractive error to correct eyesight. 3. After the surgery, the surgeon will place a soft contact lens on the eye to keep it protected and help the outer layer of the cornea grow back.
The main difference between PRK and LASIK is how they are performed. With PRK, the outer layer of the cornea is removed before shaping the cornea. During LASIK, the surgeon creates a small flap in the eye to expose the cornea, so it can be reshaped. Also, since a flap is not required, more people, including those with thinner corneas, are more likely to qualify for PRK than LASIK.
The recovery time for PRK can vary from person to person. However, most people may notice improvements in vision in as little as a week after the surgery, and overall eyesight should stabilize entirely within a few months after PRK.
Good candidates for PRK are typically 21 years of age or older and have experienced little to no changes in vision within the past two years. Proper eye health is also required. However, the best way to see if you qualify for PRK is to talk to an eye doctor.
Visian ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a state-of-the-art surgical procedure that permanently corrects eyesight using an implantable synthetic lens made of collamer. The surgery is considered an alternative to LASIK, and it’s an ideal solution for those with high degrees of myopia (nearsightedness) and those who have thin corneas.
A Visian ICL procedure consists of implanting a synthetic lens just behind the iris. It helps redirect the light rays entering your eye, so they can focus properly on the retina. The implantable lens doesn’t replace the natural lens in the eye. Overall, Visian ICL surgery takes about 15 to 30 minutes for each eye. Once it’s complete, you’ll be able to see clearly and resume regular activities in just a couple of days.
The lens implanted into your eye during this vision correction procedure is made of collamer. Collamer is a cutting-edge material that is 100% compatible with your body. As a result, you won’t be able to feel it when it’s in your eye. On top of that, collamer lenses can protect your eyes from UV rays and are anti-reflective.
Visian ICL results in long-lasting vision correction. Most people will notice an improvement in vision almost immediately after the surgery. This surgery permanently corrects eyesight. However, if your vision does change in the future, the implantable contact lens can be removed and replaced with another to ensure you see clearly for years to come.
Visian ICL is a great vision correction procedure for those with thin corneas and dry eyes. It can also work for those with high refractive errors. Patients considering undergoing this procedure should meet the following criteria, as well, to be a good candidate: ● Between 21 to 45 years of age ● Eyesight has not changed more than 0.5D in a year ● Low and high refractive errors ● Good eye health
It is recommended for individuals over the age of 50 whose natural lens has started to age. There is no prescription limit, however, your prescription must be stabilized.
Your left and right eyes receive treatment separately, usually with about a week in between procedures, which allows your eyes to naturally adjust to the clear, new lenses.
The RLE procedure is practically identical to cataract surgery. The only difference is that during the RLE treatment a clear lens is removed whereas during cataract surgery a cloudy lens is removed.
Once your natural lens has been removed and replaced with an implant, you will not require surgery again.
The procedure lasts about 10-15 minutes. Kremer technicians will place anesthetic drops in your eye to numb the area. However, you may feel some pressure or discomfort during the short procedure.
