Laser Vision Correction

Overview

Laser vision correction surgery, also known as refractive surgery, modifies the shape of the cornea (the clear window of the eye) to improve a patient’s vision. This procedure can reduce a patient’s dependency on glasses or contact lenses and may eliminate the need for them altogether.The Laser Vision Correction team at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Surgical Institute offer Patients First care with the most advanced diagnostic and laser vision surgery technologies available.

What We Treat

Laser vision correction surgery reduces the need for glasses or contact lenses. This treatment can help patients with a range of sight problems, including:

• Myopia (nearsightedness)
• Hyperopia (farsightedness)
• Presbyopia (age-related loss of near vision)
• Astigmatism (abnormal curvature of the eye that causes blurred vision).
• Laser Vision Correction Information Guide
• Laser vision correction surgery can correct your eyesight in minutes, meaning normal or near-normal vision for many patients.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis for Laser Vision Correction

Measurements of the patient’s eyes are performed to evaluate the thickness, shape, and strength of the cornea. In addition, a complete eye examination is conducted from the front (tear film) to the back (retina) of the eye. An optometrist also assesses the patient’s current glasses prescription. Several specialized, noninvasive diagnostic techniques may be used:

Corneal mapping: Also called corneal tomography, an exam that assesses the shape and curvature of the cornea.
Ocular response analyzer: A test that uses infrared light to analyze corneal biomechanics, or how the cornea responds to an air puff as a type of stimulus.
After these tests, the caregiver discusses with the patient which laser vision surgery would be most beneficial.

Treatment with Laser Vision Correction

The Laser Vision Correction Service at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Surgical Institute offers a full range of options for vision correction. Laser vision correction options include:

• LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) surgery: LASIK surgery is performed by creating a thin flap in the top layer of the cornea with a femtosecond laser. The underlying tissue is then reshaped by an excimer laser to correct the vision. The flap is replaced and helps to protect the newly treated tissue. Visual recovery and healing are very rapid.
• SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction): This technique is a less invasive method that allows correction of myopic prescriptions higher than those treatable with standard LASIK surgery. SMILE is performed by using a single machine called the Zeiss Visumax femtosecond laser. During this procedure, your surgeon can alter the shape of the cornea without creating a flap, thus retaining the integrity and strength of the cornea.
• Photorefractive keratectomy: Also known as PRK, this procedure uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. However, instead of lifting a small flap to reach the sub-layer of the cornea, the surgeon treats the outer layer directly. This surface layer regrows in three to five days.
• ICL Procedure: This surgery utilizes a small incision technique where a lens implant is placed inside the eye to correct vision. This procedure may be useful in patients who are not good candidates for laser refractive surgery.

The Laser Vision Correction team makes use of the latest technology, including a femtosecond laser refractive suite, the top technology in the world for laser vision correction, to offer the best treatment available to patients.

As with any eye procedure, patients need to arrange for transportation home after laser vision correction surgery.

Meet Our Team

Caregivers at the Integrated Surgical Institute are highly experienced in working with patients to find the best procedure to restore their vision and performing cutting-edge surgical procedures.

Caregivers involved in patient care for this service include:

• Ophthalmologists
• Optometrists
• Specialized nurses
• Specialized technicians
• Financial counselors