Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis or LASIK
First successfully performed in 1989, LASIK stands for Laser Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis, which when translated means to "shape inside the cornea with a laser." It is used to treat a wide range of visual distortion. Before conducting the LASIK procedure, numbing drops are administered to the eyes and , while the patient is awake, a microkeratome is used to fold back a thin flap of the cornea. An Eximer laser is then used to vaporize a small amount of tissue from inside the cornea. The amount removed is determined by each persons prescription, but is typically far less than the thickness of a human hair. The flap of tissue is then folded back into place where it acts as a natural bandage. After the procedure, drops may be used to prevent infection. The patient is then sent home to relax before going back to work the next day. Reasonable normal vision can be expected within 24 hours, but the full effects of the procedure may not be achieved for two to four weeks. Call Dr. Christian today at (435) 586-1131 to set up a free screening to see if you are a candidate for LASIK.
Treatment of Glaucoma
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the United States, especially for older people. But loss of sight from Glaucoma is often preventable if you get treatment early enough. Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve, The optic nerve carries the images we see to the brain. Many people know that Glaucoma has something to do with pressure inside the eye. The higher the pressure inside the eye. The greater chance of damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is made up of a huge number of nerve fibers, like an electric cable containing a huge number of wires. Glaucoma can damage nerve fibers, causing blind spots to develop. Usually people do not notice these blind areas until much optic nerve damage has already occurred. If the entire nerve is destroyed, blindness results.
Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
There are two types of Diabetic Retinopathy: Nonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR) and Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR). NPDR, commonly known as "Background Retinopathy," is an early stage of Diabetic Retinopathy. In this stage, tiny blood vessels within the retina leak blood or fluid. The leaking fluid causes the retina to swell or to form deposits called exudates. Many people with diabetes have mild NPDR, which usually does not affect their vision. When vision is affected it is the result of Macular Edema and/or Macular Ischemia.