Eye Surgery
Laser Vision Correction
Most people with vision correction issues are wanting to know more about LASIK and whether it is right for them. Here is a brief description of the procedure:
A flap is surgically cut in the cornea and gently folded back. An Excimer Laser is used to reshape the cornea into a flatter shape (this is much like a contact lens corrects vision by forming a new shape on the cornea). The flap is then put back in place, acting like a natural bandage. The healing process is quick and the discomfort level is quite low.People will often say that they did not feel anything, and could see well the very first day. Most people have significantly improved vision in 24-48 hours, but it must be noted that each person will heal at a different rate. Vision, although greatly improved immediately after surgery, often continues to improve for some weeks, even months.
LASIK is not for everyone. People's eyes are different so even though you may have had a friend who has had LASIK, it may not be the best course of treatment for you. If you are interested in laser vision correction, we will be happy to guide you in selecting the right surgeon, procedure and laser appropriate for you. Our doctors work closely with LASIK surgeons in Birmingham, Huntsville, and Nashville. We will be happy to help you select a surgeon based on your individual needs.
After the procedure, we take great care to monitor your eyes and adjust your medications for the best possible results.
Cataract Surgery and Post-Operative Care
In cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens must be removed from the eye. After that, in most cases a permanent intraocular lens (IOL) implant replaces the natural lens to restore focusing power.
When to have cataract surgery often is a subjective decision, based on how well you are able to see during routine activities. You might be able to drive, watch television and work at a computer for quite a few years, even after you are first diagnosed with cataracts.
However, if you have cataracts, you may eventually start to notice "ghost" images and declining visual clarity, which can't be corrected with glasses or contacts. Colors may begin to look faded, too. If your functional vision is impaired significantly and it becomes difficult for you to perform your normal daily activities, it may be time for cataract surgery.
Cataract surgery usually is done on an outpatient basis. You may be asked to skip breakfast and avoid drinking liquids, depending on the time of your surgery. Also, do not wear eye makeup on the day of surgery. Upon arrival at the facility, you will be given eye drops to dilate your pupils and perhaps a sedative to help you relax. A local or topical anesthetic will make the operation painless.
Phacoemulsification in cataract surgery involves insertion of a tiny, hollowed tip that uses high frequency (ultrasonic) vibrations to "break up" the eye's cloudy lens (cataract). The same tip is used to suction out the lens.
After the eye's natural lens is removed during cataract surgery, an artificial or intraocular lens is implanted to take its place.
The skin around your eye will be thoroughly cleansed, and sterile coverings will be placed around your eye and head.Under an operating microscope, at least one small incision is made into the eye. The surgeon will then remove your cloudy lens (the cataract).
This procedure can be performed using an ultrasound-driven instrument that "sonically" breaks up the cataract (phacoemulsification) as it is suctioned (aspirated) out of the eye.
In another surgical method, special instruments are used to mechanically break up the cloudy lens into small pieces (phacofracture) and remove them directly from the eye through a small incision.The surgeon will insert a plastic or silicone IOL inside the eye to replace the natural lens that was removed.
Our doctors consult with cataract surgeons in the Shoals, Huntsville, Birmingham and Nashville. We will assist you in selecting the best surgeon for your individual needs.
Post-Operative Care: Our doctors will manage your post-surgical care including post-operative visits and adjustment of medications.
During at least the first week of your recovery, it is essential that you avoid:
- Strenuous activity and heavy lifting (nothing over 25 pounds).
- Bending, exercising and similar activities that might stress your eye while it is healing.
- Water that might splash into your eye and cause infection. Keep your eye closed while showering or bathing. Also, avoid swimming or hot tubs for at least two weeks.
- Any activity (such as changing cat litter boxes) that would expose your healing eye to dust, grime or other infection-causing contaminants.
Although the basic postoperative instructions are similar among most eye surgeons, each surgeon may have specific recovery instructions depending on the outcome of your surgery. Always follow your surgeon's specific instructions, which you will receive prior to your discharge from the outpatient facility.