Myopia, hypermetropia and, above all, astigmatism can now be treated with a new, pioneering method: topography-guided laser treatment. In this painless technique, the correction not only removes the refractive error but also, at the same time, perfectly smooths the cornea based on its topography. This treatment, known as topography-guided ablation, can be applied whether we choose the LASIK or the PRK technique, using state-of-the-art lasers, and its goal is even better vision for the patient.
The lasers we use are made by Alcon (part of the Novartis group) and consist of two machines that together form the refractive suite.
In LASIK we use both lasers. The first, called a femtosecond laser, creates a thin cut in the cornea in order to form a flap. This laser offers remarkable precision and safety, because each of its pulses lasts one femtosecond, that is 10−15 or 0.000000000000001 of a second. Once the flap has been created, it is lifted and we move on to the second laser, called an excimer laser. This laser removes the refractive error and smooths the cornea where indicated. Each laser actually operates for only a few seconds, and the whole procedure takes no more than 10 minutes.
If we choose the PRK technique, the epithelium is removed either directly with the excimer laser (known as trans-PRK) or with alcohol, and we then proceed to correct the refractive error, again with the excimer laser.
The advantage of topography-guided ablation is that it not only corrects the refractive error but also fully smooths the cornea of irregularities that cannot be measured as degrees of myopia or astigmatism, yet may have a significant effect on vision.
With his experience in this method, Dr Skouteris can advise you on whether it is suitable for you.
Questions about your case?
Dr. Skouteris will examine you at his practice in Neo Psychiko and explain your options.
Ophthalmic surgeon trained at the John Radcliffe University Hospital in Oxford and Fellow of the European Board of Ophthalmology (FEBO).
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