LASIK

LASIK, or Laser in-Situ Keratomileusis offers a number of benefits over other forms of laser vision correction because it is performed under a protective layer of corneal tissue. As a result, there is less surface area to heal, less risk of scarring, less risk of corneal haze, less postoperative discomfort, less postoperative need for medications, and vision returns more rapidly--often within a day or so. LASIK can also treat a high range of vision errors. Although postoperative results vary, most patients are able to pass a drivers license test without their glasses or contact lenses.

The Procedure Itself

Once anesthetic drops have been placed on the eye, the suction ring is perfectly centered over the cornea. The suction ring serves to hold the eye in place as it reaches adequate pressure for the microkeratome to function.

By using the microkeratome, Dr. Williamson and Dr. Kidd create a partial flap of uniform thickness. The superior portion of the cornea is left uncut to create a hinge. This procedure takes less than 1 minute total.

After removing the suction ring and microkeratome, the cornea is folded back to expose the stromal bed, also know as the middle of the cornea.

Using the Visx laser, the cornea is then reshaped, based on the amount of the patient's nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or nearsightedness with astigmatism. The more nearsighted a patient is, the more tissue that will need to be removed and the longer the laser time.

The last step in in the procedure is to place back the flap into position after being irrigated carefully to remove any potential flap debris. The flap is then smoothed and allowed to dry approximately 2 minutes.

To learn more about Visx laser vision correction go to www.visx.com

Additional Information

LASIK surgery is done as an outpatient basis with most people returning to their normal activities within one to three days. Dr. Williamson, Dr. Kidd, and his caring staff are eager to help you on your way to a whole New World Of Better Vision!

Additional Information

Patients are amazed at the speed and comfort of the procedure. Dr. Ditto, a dentist in Lafayette, said, "I couldn't believe how easy and pain-free the procedure was." Dr. Williamson takes less than 10 minutes to perform the procedure on each eye. The patient does not leave the surgery table until Dr. Williamson is convinced the flap looks perfect. Dr. Williamson's optometrist Dr. Bolton then checks the patients a second time before leaving the surgery center.

More Patient Testimonials

Many patients have entrusted Dr. Williamson and Dr. Kidd with their vision. The following are testimonials from a few of Dr. Williamson and Dr. Kidd's patients on how LASIK has improved or changed their lives.

Dr. Loretta Piggott, optometrist: "It is nice to get up in the morning to go to the gym and not have to fight with my contacts. The procedure was extremely simple and pain-free. I would recommend Dr. Williamson to all my friends and family who are candidates."

Dr. Ditto: "My vision was increased immensely. I couldn't tolerate playing golf with my glasses and now I do not have to use glasses to play at all."

Bart Burrell, radio sports personality and Purdue All-American football player: "The mirrors in my house work for the first time."

Tom Walter, President of his own construction company, Link Management Co.: "I think I can see Mars."

Jan Williamson, school principal and Dr. Williamson's sister-in-law: "I have a new-found sense of freedom. I no longer reach for my bifocals or glasses."

Carol Casey, businesswoman: "It is delightful to get out of bed and be able to see."

Janie Sievers, businesswoman: "Knowing what I know now after having the procedure, I am sorry I didn't have it done sooner! After wearing glasses and contacts for 12 years, I forgot about all of the restrictions corrective lenses impose. LASIK has offered me freedom in the simple things like seeing the alarm clock in the morning, putting on my make-up and driving with sunglasses in the sunlight."