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Aloha Laser Vision

Archive for March, 2009

Recent Study Finds Lasik Vision Correction Safer Than Contact Lenses

Posted on March 19, 2009 7:44PM in Uncategorized

The widely held belief that wearing contact lenses is safer than having laser vision correction is being challenged. A recent study indicates for the first time that LASIK is safer than contact lenses.

Based on their review of multiple studies, ophthalmologist William Mathers, M.D., and colleagues found a greater chance of suffering vision loss from contact lenses than from laser vision correction (LASIK). Their findings were reported in a letter published in the journal “Archives of Ophthalmology.”

The Oregon researchers reviewed several large studies and concluded that daily contact lens wearers have a one in 100 chance of developing serious lens- related eye infection over 30 years of use, and a one in 2,000 chance of suffering significant vision loss as a result. The study confirms that only one in 10,000 patients risk significant vision loss due to complications from LASIK, making LASIK the safest elective procedure performed today.

As technologies continue to evolve, the risk of laser vision correction con- tinues to diminish. In 2001, the All- Laser, No-Blade method was introduced which dramatically decreased flap complications making All-Laser LASIK safer. Dr. Faulkner was an early adapter and the first LASIK surgeon in Hawaii to bring this technology to the islands. In 2005, Dr. Faulkner introduced Custom Cornea LASIK which not only improved vision, but also virtually eliminated night glare and halos, one of the early complaints of LASIK patients.

Between 20 and 25 million people in the United States wear contact lenses; about a million Americans undergo laser surgery to correct vision problems each year. Direct comparisons of the risks vs. benefits of contacts and LASIK have been difficult because surgical complications are immediate and the risks associated with contact lenses accumulates over several years.

The risk of wearing contacts is greater when the lenses are used improperly, such as sleeping in them, using tap water to store them, or even not washing your hands before putting them in. Infections can occur even when contact lens wearers do everything right.

“One should not assume that contact lenses are safer than LASIK,” explains Dr. Faulkner. “It may have been true years ago, but for the average person this is certainly not the case anymore. Contact lens wearers are prone to serious infections.”

If you wear contact lenses and have considered LASIK surgery, consider this – LASIK will pay for itself in about 4 years (not to mention it’s tax deductible). Contact lens wearers have monthly costs for lenses and solution, in addition to the expense of yearly eye exams and backup prescription glass- es. This doesn’t include an emergency visit to the doctor if you develop an eye irritation or infection from wearing contacts. To make LASIK affordable and conven- ient for every budget we offer flexible financing plans, such as 0% interest for 24 months.

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Imagine Taking Clear Vision For Granted

Posted on March 17, 2009 6:23PM in Implantable Contact Lens

Patients seeking vision correction now have an exciting new option: Visian ICL™, an implantable contact lens. Visian ICL™ is the first foldable lens of its kind to receive FDA approval. Unlike traditional contact lenses that are placed on the surface of the eye, Visian ICL™ is surgically placed inside the eye where it may provide exceptional quality of vision and predictable outcomes. Just when you thought you had seen it all, a new procedure is set to redefine vision correction. Named Visian ICL™, the procedure corrects vision from a completely different perspective. Visian ICL™ is the first lens of its kind to receive FDA approval for use in the United States. After LASIK was introduced many people thought that vision correction had acheived its ultimate evolution. Now there is reason to reconsider, as a new vision correction procedure has received FDA approval for use in the United States. The new procedure is Visian ICL™. The simple implantation procedure is performed on an outpatient basis by ophthalmologists who are certified in the Visian ICL™ procedure. According to Dr. Alan Faulkner, “It’s the same procedure that I have performed on cataract patients for years, so it’s quite familiar to me.” The ophthalmologist makes a small incision where the cornea meets the white part of the eye and inserts the foldable lens, which unfolds into place. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes and is done using topical anesthesia. Typically, patients can see very clearly within a few hours after the procedure. Visian ICL™ is cosmetically pleasing, as well. The lens is placed in the posterior chamber, between the iris and in front of the crystalline lens. The placement makes it invisible to the patient and others. Further, the lens avoids contact with any eye structures, providing safety, stability, comfort and predictable outcomes. Once in place, the lens stays there indefinitely and should require no maintenance. Except for outstanding vision and an annual checkup, the patient may forget the lens is even there. Visian ICL™ is made of an advanced lens material called Collamer® that may provide exceptionally clear vision and practically eliminates reflectance of light that can cause glare, halos and compromised night vision. A highly biocompatible lens material, Collamer® does not trigger an inflammatory response in the body and minimizes the occurrence of inflammation, induced astigmatism, and other complications.More than 55,000 patients worldwide have had the Visian ICL™ procedure. The lens has been subjected to numerous scientific studies and continuing refinement over time. In a rigorous US clinical trial, the satisfaction rate among patients was impressive: 99.4% reported satisfaction three years after the procedure. Visian ICL™ is being introduced by STAAR Surgical, Company, a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products. If you are considering vision correction options, you are encouraged to contact Dr. Alan Faulkner at 792-EYES (3937) to discuss the possibilities of Visian ICL™, the new 21st century option for vision correction. Dr. Faulkner is the only certified Visian surgeon performing procedures in Hawaii.

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