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 offers 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).

Diagnosis for Laser Vision Correction

Measurements of the 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.

After this assessment, 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. 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 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.

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy): 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.

ICL (implantable collamer lens) procedure: This surgery is a small incision technique to implant a lens 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.