488 Freedom Plains Road - Suite 137 Poughkeepsie, New York 12603 Ph: 845 471-7400 Fax: 845 471-7531

LASIK:

Laser in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is an extremely effective surgical procedure that involves using an instrument called a microkeratome to create a very thin, hinged corneal flap. Next, ultraviolet light and high-energy pulses from the excimer laser are used to reshape the interior surface of the cornea. The flap is then placed back into its original position where it bonds without the need for sutures.

Risks & Benefits:

This is an elective procedure and with any medical procedure, you should be informed and understand the possible complications and risks involved. Dr. Earle has been worked at multiple laser vision correction centers and will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for laser surgery and discuss your vision options. Some of the risks that can occur include infection, corneal halos, under/over correction, and corneal flap problems.

Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) – Non-surgical:

CRT is a non-surgical method of remolding the cornea to allow patients to be glasses and contact lens free during daytime hours. CRT uses specially designed contact lenses to reshape the front surface of the cornea to reduce or correct nearsightedness and astigmatism.

A molding contact lens is applied to the cornea at bedtime and worn while sleeping. During sleep the lens gently reshapes the surface of the eye to the proper curvature. The lens is removed the following morning, providing clear vision throughout the day without the hassle of wearing glasses or contact lenses during these active hours. Most patients have rapid improvement in the first few days of treatment and achieve nearly their optimum vision in 10 to 14 days.
The cornea is highly elastic and always returns to its original shape. For this reason, the lenses are worn nightly in order to maintain the ideal corneal shape to correct their vision.
What are the advantages of Corneal Refractive Therapy?

• No surgery required; is non-invasive
• Provides freedom from spectacles or contact lenses during active daytime hours
• Is less costly than refractive surgery
• Is reversible (laser correction is not!)
• Can be modified to enhance effect as your eyes change throughout life

What are the disadvantages of Corneal Refractive Therapy?

• Lenses must be worn nightly to maintain proper corneal shape
• Does not provide full correction on all eyes

Who are the best candidates for Corneal Refractive Therapy?

• Those under 18 years of age who can not wear daytime contacts or glasses (athletes who can not wear contacts or glasses like a high school football player).
• Those who want to wait until laser technology evolves further before permanently having eye surgery
• Patients who are nearsighted up to approximately – 4.00 and astigmatism up to -1.75
• Those with active lifestyles or work in dusty environments

Note: Due to the unique character and complexity of each eye, full correction is sometimes not possible with Corneal Refractive Therapy. However, significant improvement in visual function is almost always achievable with appropriate candidates and realistic expectations.

For more information on CRT, please visit www.paragoncrt.com.