Laser Vision Correction
Laser vision correction and Refractive Surgery
Laser vision correction is for people who want their vision corrected permanently with no more need for glasses or contact lenses. While it may not result in absolutely perfect vision, it allows most patients to go about their lives without needing glasses. We’ll check your eyes to see whether laser vision correction would be suitable for you.
Laser vision correction uses laser to reshape the curve of the cornea, correcting your poor vision. It is done as day surgery with only local anaesthetic and there is little or no postoperative pain.
Hobart Eye Surgeons has installed new state-of-the-art software – StreamLight – on our Wavelight Laser Vision Correction equipment. We are the first laser vision correction practice in Australia to install and use this new and innovative software upgrade.
The new software delivers “Trans epithelial PRK” which effectively means “no touch” laser vision correction for PRK patients and consequently a quicker and more comfortable healing time for those patients. The initial results have been excellent with the first patients treated recovering more quickly and with good vision results.
Where is it performed?
Laser vision correction is performed in our rooms at 182 Argyle Street
How long does it take?
The procedure itself takes about twenty minutes; however, we like you to come in early so we can prepare you for the operation.
Before, during and after the procedure
Arrange for someone to bring you in for your appointment as you won’t be able to drive yourself home afterwards.
Before your operation we put in some anaesthetic eye drops. We might also give you a mild sedative to help you relax.
You lie down on a bed in the treatment room with your head underneath a microscope. We clean and sterilise the area around your eyes. Your eyelids are held open and a suction ring is put on to hold the eye steady. This is slightly uncomfortable but not painful. We talk to you throughout the procedure to let you know what’s happening.
A thin flap is cut from the surface of the eye and held back while a laser reshapes the cornea. The flap is then repositioned and it sticks back into place without any stitches.
After the procedure we put some more drops in and tape some clear plastic shields over your eyes for protection. Your eyes might feel gritty and irritated for a few hours after the operation and we ask you to go home and rest with your eyes shut to give them a good chance to heal.
You’ll come in to see us the next morning – with the eye shields still in place – and we’ll give you an eye test, tell you how to care for your eyes in the few weeks after surgery and make a follow up appointment.
In most cases patients have excellent vision the day after laser vision correction surgery.