In the US more than 1 million people undergo LASIK eye surgery each year. It is the most common elective procedure that is available today. It is estimated that more than 15 million people have undergone the procedure worldwide. Many people find happiness with the greater freedom from contact lenses or glasses that LASIK provides. LASIK is not the best choice for everyone though. Sometimes a person is not a candidate for LASIK eye surgery even though they want to have the surgery performed. Dry eyes, old age, thin corneas, health problems or high amounts near-sightedness or far-sightedness can lead to poor results with LASIK. These people are not good candidates for LASIK eye surgery.
Luckily there are many new options that are available for people who are not good candidates for laser vision correction. Many advanced technologies are now available which can help provide greater freedom for people who do not like to wear glasses or contact lenses. Crystalens, ReStor, and ReZoom are used to correct for cataracts or reading problems caused by old age. These lenses are used to allow patients to see both near and far without needing glasses. Many people that are 50 years old and older find that they can read again with these surgical treatments. Patients with dry eyes, thin corneas or high amounts of near-sightedness can often be treated with Verisyse or Visian, a lens which is placed inside the eye but in front of the person’s natural lens. Dr. Stephen Turner was the first doctor in Northern California to perform eye surgery using the Visian lens. He was certified in this procedure and has trained other doctors. Another eye problem, known as keratoconus, can lead to poor vision due to a thin misshaped cornea. Intacs can offer an effective solution to many people with this difficulty.
In addition to these, advancements in LASIK such as the new Iris Registration as well as Customized Wavefront treatment so that each patient can receive a individualized treatment that is unique to their eyes. Turner Eye Institute also offers the new Intralase Laser, an advanced technology that provides LASIK without the need for a blade. LASIK is now safer and more effective than ever before.
It is very important when considering eye surgery to find an eye doctor who is specialized in the treatment that you desire. Do not pick the doctor who offers the lowest price or the doctor who does not often perform the surgery that you would like or is new to the field. It is also important that the doctor offer a variety of different procedures. A doctor who only performs LASIK cannot offer you a better procedure if it turns out that LASIK is not the best option for you.Dr. Stephen Turner is a board certified ophthalmologist. He has performed over 30,000 vision correction procedures, including LASIK. This year Turner Eye Institute is celebrating its 30th year. Dr. Turner was selected as “One of Silicon Valley’s Best Doctors” by San Jose Magazine. He was named “One of the Top Doctors” by San Francisco Magazine. Dr. Turner remains a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology and keeps himself at the forefront of all technological advanced in eye surgery.