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This article appears in NEWMARKET. Spring 24 edition. For more, click here.
We live in an era of technological advancements in all aspects of our lives. This is also evident in the world of eye health and surgery. We are constantly seeing innovations in all areas of eye surgery and potential outcomes for patients. From the continually evolving equipment we use daily, to the innovations in the artificial lenses that play a pivotal role in giving our patients their best vision. It is a challenging, but incredibly rewarding career. We have a special opportunity to make a real difference to people’s quality of life and support their freedom and independence by making their vision as good as it can be.
Vision correction can be transformative for a patient – available treatments can include; Laser eye surgery procedures, Laser eye surgery alternatives and treatment options for ageing eyes. There is often a misconception that vision correction will not be suitable for you because you’re ‘not young enough’ or its not available for your high prescription or astigmatism, but due to continuous advancements in vision correction, there are now suitable vision correction solutions for a large percentage of those with refractive errors.
The most common refractive errors (vision problems that make it hard to see clearly) are Short-sightedness, Longsightedness, Astigmatism and Presbyopia. In the vast majority of cases, we can correct these issues with laser eye surgery, implantable contact lenses or refractive lens exchange.
Laser Eye Surgery (SMILE, LASIK and PRK) can be life changing. The benefits of laser eye surgery extend beyond clear vision, it can play a huge part in someone’s quality of life. The procedure itself is quick, involves minimal discomfort and can take as little as 15 minutes for both eyes. It offers a short recovery – often back at work or driving in a day or two.
Laser is one of the more widely known vision correction options and has been incredibly popular in New Zealand since it was introduced here in 1992. Over 50 million people worldwide have had laser eye surgery and achieved independence from glasses and contact lenses since 1990.
Implantable Contact Lens Surgery (ICLs) is a laser eye surgery alternative. ICLs are clear lenses made of collamer (a collagen type material) implanted between the natural lens and the iris. It is a great option for those that want clear vision without glasses or contacts but aren’t suitable for laser eye surgery.
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a fantastic option if you are 50+ and starting to experience changes in your vision due to the effects of ageing. In this procedure we remove the natural lens and replace it with an advanced artificial lens to restore clear vision and sharp focus. It also eliminates the need for cataract surgery in the future.
If you do have cataracts, we can also do Refractive Cataract Surgery which is a very similar surgery to RLE, but also includes the removal of your cataracts.
If you have ever been curious about vision correction, but weren’t sure where to start, it’s as easy as coming in for an assessment, and we will be able to tell you the best treatment options for your eyes.
As a refractive surgeon, there is nothing like seeing the change in your patient’s life as they share the meaningful moments that really make their surgery so worthwhile.
Whether it’s a new parent who no longer needs to reach for their glasses as they get up in the night, not needing to switch between glasses to read measurements on a job site, or feeling less inhibited on the sports field. These little things, are actually so big, and the reason we so frequently hear –”I wish I did it sooner”.
For more information, visit www.eyeinstitute.co.nz
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