Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) became an effective laser surgery to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Using a minimal invasive technique, this surgery became ideal for those who are not candidates for LASIK or seeking an alternative. This surgical procedure is performed using different techniques at Sugarland Eye & Laser Center in Houston and each technique offers comparable vision improvement/correction results.
Who are the candidates for this type of surgery?
Some preliminary requirements exist in patients to undergo ASA. As per doctors, this procedure is ideal for:
•Patients above 18 years of age
•Have unchanged eye prescriptions for a year
•Do not have autoimmune diseases of suffer from dry eye or have corneal scarring
•Want to improve or correct their vision problems associated with nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism
Benefits of ASA
ASA offers patients vision improvements through the use of minimally invasive techniques. The procedure does not utilize a microkeratome blade. It has no post-operative complications. After surgery, patients achieve clearer vision and reduced dependence on glasses and contacts.
ASA procedure
ASA developed as a surgery that is performed efficiently on an outpatient basis. Only anesthetic eye drops have been required during the procedure. The eye surgeon initially removes the eye’s surface layer, also called the epithelium. A laser may be used for this process where the surface layer is partly lifted with precision. An alternative is to use diluted alcohol solution that loosens the epithelium for maneuverability.
Upon removal of the epithelium, corneal reshaping is performed with a laser to correct the vision problem. The advanced laser utilized in this process helps deliver custom vision correction treatment based on individual patient needs. After the procedure concludes, the final stage is the application of a bandage contact lens over the eye that promotes gradual healing.
Recovery from ASA
After ASA treatment, patients can go home within a short time. Patients may not be able to drive immediately after surgery. The bandage contact lens is not replaced or taken off for up to four days. The period of application on the bandage contact lens is as per the discretion of the eye doctor. The doctor typically prescribes eye drops to prevent infections and also to moisturize the eyes so that they do not get dehydrated. Full results are established within six months. Glasses may be worn by patients after surgery for an initial period of time. This helps to adjust vision to the effects of surgery. The doctor may also prescribe vitamin supplements to improve the healing process of the eye that was operated on.
Results of ASA
The results of ASA are comparable to any other competent laser eye surgery. Patients experience significant vision improvements. ASA is not recommended or prescribed for presbyopia – which is the change in the eyes that occurs with age. Older patients who have undergone ASA may still need to use glasses.
Sources:
http://www.dillmaneyecare.com/advanced-surface-ablation.php
http://www.clearchoicelaser.com/cleveland/advanced-surface-ablation.htm
Sugarland Eye & Laser Center leads in providing premium LASIK technologies to Houston, Sugar Land, and the surrounding region. The Center’s award-winning medical director introduced revolutionary technologies such as iLASIK to the region. This technology is used by NASA astronauts, Navy SEALS and Air Force fighter pilots. At Sugarland Eye & Laser Center, you can now receive the same treatment. For more information, please call (281) 240-0478 or visit us at www.houston-lasik.com.
About the Author
Amjad Khokhar, M.D. is Chief LASIK Surgeon at Sugarland Eye & Laser Center. Add Dr. Khokhar on Google+ here.
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