Refractive Surgery
FAQs
Considering LASIK, PRK, or ICL? Here's everything you need to know.
1. What Is Refractive Surgery?
Refractive surgery refers to procedures that correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. Common types include LASIK, PRK, EVO ICL, and RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange).
2. What Is LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) uses a laser to reshape the cornea so light focuses correctly on the retina. It’s fast, virtually painless, and offers rapid vision improvement. Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better within 24 hours.
3. What Is PRK and How Does It Differ from LASIK?
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is an alternative to LASIK, ideal for patients with thinner corneas. Instead of creating a flap, the top layer of the cornea is gently removed before reshaping. PRK has a slightly longer recovery than LASIK but provides comparable visual results.
4. What Is EVO ICL?
The EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a next-generation, biocompatible lens implanted inside the eye to correct moderate to severe nearsightedness and astigmatism. It’s ideal for patients who aren’t candidates for LASIK or PRK and is removable, offering flexibility in the future.
5. What Is Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)?
RLE, also called Clear Lens Exchange, is similar to cataract surgery but performed electively to correct vision. The natural lens is replaced with a premium intraocular lens (IOL), such as multifocal or toric lenses, offering sharp vision at all distances. RLE is commonly chosen by patients over 40 with presbyopia or those wanting a long-term solution.
6. Who Is a Candidate for Refractive Surgery?
Good candidates:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have stable vision for at least 12 months
- Have healthy corneas and overall eye health
- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
If you have thin corneas, high prescriptions, or dry eye concerns, we may recommend EVO ICL or PRK over LASIK. A detailed consultation and diagnostics at Westlake Eye Specialists will determine your best fit.
7. Is Refractive Surgery Safe?
Yes. Refractive procedures like LASIK, PRK, and EVO ICL have been performed safely for decades with high patient satisfaction and success rates. At Westlake Eye Specialists, we use the latest technology and diagnostics to ensure the safest and most accurate results.
8. What Is the Recovery Time for Each Procedure?
- LASIK: Vision clears within 24–48 hours, with full healing in 1–2 weeks.
- PRK: Vision improves over 1–2 weeks; full results may take 1–3 months.
- EVO ICL: Most patients see clearly the next day with minimal downtime.
- RLE: Similar to cataract recovery—vision sharpens within days to weeks.
9. Can Refractive Surgery Treat Astigmatism?
Yes! All modern refractive procedures—LASIK, PRK, EVO ICL, and RLE—can correct astigmatism with precision. At your consultation, we’ll map your cornea and recommend the best solution for stable, clear vision.
10. How Long Do Results Last?
Results are typically long-lasting and stable. For LASIK and PRK, vision stays clear for years—many patients never need glasses again. EVO ICL and RLE offer permanent correction, and with RLE, you also prevent future cataracts.
11. Why Choose Westlake Eye Specialists for Refractive Surgery?
At Westlake Eye Specialists, our board-certified ophthalmologists offer a full range of vision correction procedures tailored to your lifestyle. We combine advanced diagnostics, a personalized approach, and decades of surgical expertisein a patient-first environment.
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