What is Custom LASIK?

by Matthew Pruitt

Matthew Pruitt is the owner of NuVision Medicenters, which has offices throughout the tri-state area. He has been working with LASIK technology since 1995 and has assisted in over 25,000 LASIK eye procedures over the course of his career. In this article, he helps us better understand the basics of Custom LASIK technology.
Custom LASIK Basics:
Thanks to the advent of new technology, Custom LASIK has managed to essentially eradicate many of the night vision issues like halo and glare that some patients who underwent LASIK experienced the past.
Custom LASIK is basically like taking a fingerprint of your eye because the shape of your corneas and my corneas are completely different. In fac,t your right eye is different than your left eye. What custom technology does is essentially map out the fingerprint of your cornea so that the laser can actually reshape the surface of the eye based on your specific characteristics. So what you end up with is vision that actually can be sharper than what you have with your glasses or contact lenses, and 25 times more precise than what you have with your glasses.
Three years ago, before the latest generation of Visx technology came out, which is the Visx Star S4 laser that reshapes the cornea, one of the common side effects of LASIK was problems with night vision. Those problems usually occurred for one of two reasons: Either patients had extremely high degrees of astigmatism-they were in a high-risk category for that type of problem-or they came into the procedure having large pupils.
Now, new Custom LASIK technology has erased many of those issues of the past. Whereas side effects effecting night vision once impacted roughly 25% of patients, today that figure is less than 3%. So Custom LASIK has been a huge gain in regards to eliminating complications for patients and increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome, which is why the new technology has really improved the success of LASIK and the overall benefits that patients gain from it.
Patients now have a great likelihood of getting not just perfect results, but better than perfect results. Thanks to the use of new Custom LASIK technology, 75% of patients are now getting 20/15 outcomes. That's just a bit better than perfect vision. But when you're thinking about getting LASIK, and you are looking at getting something that's going to be permanent and investing your hard earned money to do it, these are the types of technological advancements you want your surgeon to be using.
Typically, the decision of whether to use traditional LASIK or custom LASIK technology in a patient's procedure comes out during the evaluation with the doctor. However, practices like Dr. Jackson's [NuVision's medical director] typically make it Custom LASIK a standard method of care. Commonly, other doctors may have a base fee for the LASIK surgery and then will charge additional add on fees or extra charges for patients who want something like Custom LASIK. However, because Custom LASIK is something that can only benefit patients, practices like NuVision and doctors like Dr. Jackson understand that it makes sense to use this new technology on everybody.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

About the Author
Matthew Pruitt is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find a plastic surgeon or more plastic surgery articles at Yodle Consumer Guide. What is Custom LASIK?

Is LASIK Safe?

by Matthew Pruitt

Matthew Pruitt is the owner of NuVision Medicenters, with centers in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. An expert in the field of LASIK technology, Pruitt shared many of the biggest misconceptions he hears from patients contemplating LASIK.
What are the biggest worries people have about LASIK?
The biggest thing that keeps people from doing LASIK is fear. It's the thing that keeps people from having the presence of mind to actually have the LASIK procedure performed.
There was a study that was announced two years ago, which was actually a comparative long-term study looking at the safety of LASIK versus the safety of long-term contact lens wearers. Interestingly, LASIK came back being much safer than the long-term wearing of contact lenses. In fact, LASIK is the safest elective surgical procedure that is being performed anywhere in terms of success and safety.
In addition to that, it's also now time tested. We have been doing this procedure since 1996-when it was approved by the FDA-and we're getting pretty close to 15 years of data. What we're finding is: Patients are not having any adverse effects to LASIK, even decades after their surgery. Their vision is still holding consistent and it's not diminishing over time, so they are still enjoying the benefits of LASIK years down the road.
We even see that in our own office. Dr. Jerreyll Jackson [NuVision's medical director] has been performing this procedure for 10 years. And we still follow some of those patients who had surgery early on, only to find that they are still seeing perfectly and are very happy that they were some of the first innovators to pioneer the surgery and taking the chance to do it.
So LASIK is safe, and now it's proven. In fact, even NASA has recently approved the bladeless method of doing LASIK surgery for its astronauts who are going into space. So that is certainly another big feather in the cap of laser vision correction from the standpoint of safety.
How long does LASIK last?
Once it's done and you get the outcome that you are looking for, LASIK is permanent. It doesn't change. Especially for patients who have nearsightedness and astigmatism.
The misconception is that you end up having to wear reading glasses in the future, but the reality is that it's actually not because of LASIK. The thing that causes vision to change for reading as you get older has to do with muscles inside the eyes, and that condition is called presbyopia. Once we get into our mid-40s that is a condition that just happens to be a natural part of human nature and LASIK does not make a big change in terms of what you see from that standpoint. So for our patients who are in their 20s or 30s, when they get into their 40s they may need reading glasses but their distance vision is proving to hold up. And we have 15-year data for that.
Are there any other myths you commonly hear from patients?
Well the first thing that is on everybody's mind when they come in is: "Am I going to go blind if I do LASIK?" And the fact of the matter is that over this period of time that we have been doing laser vision correction across the country, there hasn't been a reported case of anybody going blind from LASIK.
LASIK is a really safe procedure, but it's safe for the right type of patient, with the right type of physical characteristic and the right prescription. And that's why it's really critical to have an evaluation by a LASIK surgeon and to make sure that surgeon has a lot of experience in selecting the right candidates. You also want a doctor who errs on the side of caution and works from a conservative point of view.
When you're searching for a doctor, you should look for someone who has done a lot of procedures-preferably in the thousands. And Dr. Jackson has done over 12,000 procedures. And you want a doctor who does specialized care, specifically in laser vision correction. So you're looking for a doctor who has fellowship training specifically in refractive surgery, somebody like Dr. Jackson who has that type of skill as well.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

About the Author
Matthew Pruitt is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find a plastic surgeon or more plastic surgery articles at Yodle Consumer Guide. Is LASIK Safe?

About Bifocal Contact Lenses

by kim valerio

For a majority of us, presbyopia is something we have to live with. In definition, presbyopia is the lack of focusing on things in close range. The cause for this, is the lens in our eyes becoming less and less flexible as we grow older. The bad part is, most of us will need some type of corrective lenses, such as contact lenses or glasses and possibly even bifocals at some point in our lives as this condition gets worse.
Up until recently, those who wore bifocals had very limited options when they chose their corrective lenses. Years ago, glasses that contained bifocal lenses were just about the only option available. Over the years, no-line lenses were created, and glasses became a bit more attractive. This was a very definitive time for bifocal correction lenses, as they looked a lot better than they ever did in the past - eliminating the bulky and unattractive appearance they were well known for.
Now days, you can find many different types of bifocal contact lenses on the market. They are gaining in popularity, as they give those who wear bifocal glasses a very attractive alternative to wearing bulky glasses. They are very affordable as well - which makes them a more popular choice in the world of corrective lenses.
What many may not realize, is the fact that bifocal contacts are very similar to glass lenses in the way they work. With glass lenses, each separate lens provides a range of focus adjustments, one for distance and another for being close up on something. With bifocal contact lenses, both of the adjustments are included. There are different manufacturers that produce different types of bifocal contact lenses, meaning that it may take you a bit of research and experimenting to find which type works the best for you.
Some lenses however, are made with a unique design, known as concentric. Similar to concentric circles, there are two adjustments - one in the middle the other around the outside. These two adjustments in the contact lens are very distinct, with a sharp line between them. Even though they may sound hard to use, most people find that they are easy use with a little bit of practice.
One type of bifocal lens is the aspheric lens, which have a more gradual change of focus. Both power are in the central area of the pupil, and similar to the concentric lens, your eye will immediately adjust to these lenses and decide on the focus that is best to use.
The third and possibly best lens for bifocal use is the translating lens. Just like bifocal glass lenses, the near correction is found at the bottom of the lens, and the distance correction is found at the top. These lenses aren't able to shift when in the eye, as they are normally made so they aren't able to shift around. This can be great for older individuals, as these contacts won't move around no matter what you do.
When it comes to bifocal contact lenses, you should always ask your optician what he thinks is best for your eyes. If you meet the right criteria, chances are you'll be prescribed bifocal contact lenses. If you wear bifocal glasses, you may find these contacts to be the perfect alternative. You can get bifocal lenses in extended wear, daily disposable, or even conventional - which is great for anyone who likes plenty of choices. With a lot to choose from and a lot to offer - bifocal contact lenses are the ideal alternative for anyone who needs bifocal correction lenses.

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The Acuvue Advance Contact Lenses

by kim valerio

Just like any other contact lens from Acuvue, the Acuvue advance contact lenses offer you plenty of quality and reliability. They are a cut above the rest, offering you excellent quality and comfort for a very affordable price.
The first thing you'll notice about the Acuvue advance lenses is the addition of Hydroclear, made by Johnson and Johnson. Although other types of Acuvue lenses now offer Hydroclear, the advance lenses were the first. Hydraclear is a break through in contact lens technology, perfect for those who have problems with their lenses drying out. This technology is considered to be among the best - and ideal for anyone who wants the best for their eyes.
Hydraclear is a rich moisture type element that is found throughout the exterior and interior of Acuvue advance contact lenses, helping to give them a soft, silky feel. Once you put a pair of advance lenses in your eyes, you'll notice the benefits of Hydraclear immediately. It doesn't dry out like other contact lenses, keeping your eyes refreshed while you wear them.
Acuvue advance contacts also offer you great protection as well. They offer the highest type of UVA blocking and UV ray protection available for contact lenses. You can enjoy wearing these contacts anywhere you go, which is great for those who travel. If you like to go to the beach you can rest assured in knowing that the Acuvue advance lenses will keep your eyes protected from the sun while you enjoy the beauty of the beach.
Acuvue advance contacts are made from a soft yet flexible material, which makes them a breeze to put in your eyes. There shouldn't any trouble putting them in your eyes, which makes them ideal for anyone who wears contacts. Simply put them in your eyes, and they will automatically conform themselves to your pupils, feeling comfortable from the start.
The advance contact lenses from Acuvue work pretty much the same as other contacts. You need to clean them and soak them in contact solution overnight. They are good up to a month per pair, which makes them ideal for everyday use. They normally come in boxes of 6, meaning that a single pair will last you up to 3 months.
If you wear contacts, you should look into the Acuvue advance. You can buy them online, through your local optician, or anywhere else that sells contacts. They are available in virtually every subscription, which is perfect for anyone who needs a dependable pair of lenses. The Acuvue advance lenses are unlike any other type, for the simple fact that they are very comfortable, dependable - and easy to take care of. Once you give them a try - you'll never to use any other brand again.

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About Acuvue Contact Lenses

by kim valerio

Its really no secret that Acuvue is one of the most popular and most dominant brands of contact lenses out there on the market. There are several different types of Acuvue contact lenses to choose from, including Advanced, Acuvue 2 Colors, and lenses that contain the very popular and innovative Hydraclear. Oasys is another type of Acuvue contact lens, although it is somewhat new and isn't as easy to find.
Just like other brands and types of contacts, Acuvue lenses were designed to correct many vision problems such as far sight, astigmatism, near sight, and the inability or lack of changing focus from far to near. Acuvue offers you options as well, such as hard lenses, soft lenses, and even toric contact lenses.
To make things better for you, Acuvue contacts have a few different periods of wear. Some of them, such as the Acuvue Advanced, are designed to be worn for a two week period, after which they need to be discarded and replaced with a fresh pair. Some types of Acuvue lenses are made for daily use, which means that you must use a fresh pair each day. Normally, Acuvue contacts are intended for daily use and need to be soaked in solution while you sleep, although there are types that can be left in while you sleep, although you'll need to clean them on a regular basis.
Although Acuvue contact lenses are considered to be the best contacts you can buy, you should always check with your optician first, as he can tell you which contacts will work best for your eyes. He can also tell you everything you need to know about contacts, and how to take care of them as well. You'll need to clean your contacts daily, unless you chose to go with the 1day Acuvue contacts, which you'll change out every day - eliminating the need for cleaning.
Among the many types of Acuvue lenses, those that contain Hydraclear are easily the most popular. Acuvue Advance with Hydraclear are preferred by many, as they are easily among the most comfortable. Hydraclear is a breakthrough in contact lens innovation, helping to prevent your eyes from drying out.
Acuvue contacts are also known for their appearance as well, as they are easily among the best in both comfort and style. Acuvue strives to be the best in contact lenses, which is why their contacts have very little problems. As long as you take care of them, the contacts shouldn't give you any problems. On the other hand, if you don't clean them or take care of them as you should, you'll more than likely encounter some problems.
You can find Acuvue contacts at your local optician's office, at your local department store (if they sell contacts), or online. Online is the best way to purchase, as you'll normally get amazing discounts and you'll find many types of Acuvue contacts that you won't be able to find locally.
All in all, Acuvue is considered to be the best brand in contact lenses. They have been around for many years, providing those who wear contacts the best in comfort and innovation. If you wear contacts, you are probably already familiar with Acuvue. If you wear contacts but haven't tried them yet, you really should. Acuvue has many different designs to offer you, and they can easily become your preferred brand if you give them the chance. They are very affordable as well - which makes them an ideal investment for any budget.

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See The Benefits Of Eye Tests

by Adam Singleton

If you don't currently wear glasses or contact lenses, you might find that when you think of an eye test the picture conjured up in your mind is the card and chart of your school days. While eye tests when you were a child were great for identifying those who might need help in correcting problems with their vision, eye tests have come a long way since.These days eyes tests combine traditional testing methods with new techniques and technologies to get an in-depth picture of the health of your eye. For those that do wear contacts or glasses, regular eye tests are essential for making sure that their prescription is up to date and best for their eyes. For those that don't at the moment, tests can identify if there are any signs of weakness in the eyes.While many people wouldn't consider having an eye test unless they are having problems with their vision or are experiencing commonly known side effects such as headaches, eye tests are for much more than checking whether you are long or short sighted. Advances in technology mean that these tests can now help spot the warning signs for other aspects of eye health.For example, an eye test will allow opticians to pick up on the early signs of eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts and can also be vital in the early detection of health problems such as diabetes or high blood pressure. This means that eye examinations are far more in-depth than ever before.When you go for an eye test, you'll find that your optometrist will be interested in much more than how clearly you can read the infamous letter chart. They will also compile a detailed history and details of your lifestyle, they will also use autorefraction to determine your baseline prescription and they will use tonometry to measure the pressure in your eyes - this is vital as it's a key factor in identifying glaucoma.Your optometrist will also conduct a slit lamp exam, allowing them to look at your cornea, conjunctiva, lids, iris and lens under high magnification with the help of a microscope and a small beam of light. They will also be examining the strength and flexibility of your eye muscles and carrying out a full retinal exam, to ensure that they have a broad and comprehensive picture of the health of your eyes.A modern eye test may sound complicated, but your optometrist will talk you through the process and ensure that you get the best out of your exam.

About the Author
Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

Why You Might Consider Enhancement After LASIK Laser Eye Surgery

by Yvone Corilla

Undoubtedly every patient and eye surgeon would want to accomplish the desired visual correction in the very first refractive surgery procedure. Surgeons typically conduct a comprehensive preoperative examination to determine whether the patient is a viable surgery candidate, and in order to predict the results of the refractive surgery. But unfortunately, it is difficult to accurately predict results in the case of higher refractive errors. Things gone awry during the preoperative examination or during the surgery itself may necessitate an enhancement surgery.
On certain occasions, the patient could well do without an enhancement surgery. Minor undercorrection and overcorrection can be treated through a technique called CLAPIKS (Contact Lens Assisted Pharmacologically Induced Kerato Steepening), which uses Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) contact lenses to reshape the cornea and eye drops to make the cornea more malleable. However, other major issues may typically require enhancement surgery.
Even if your eye surgeon gives you the slightest hint of the requirement of an enhancement surgery, it is advised that you dont hastily demand enhancement re-treatment. You must wait for the eyes to settle down to a fixed refraction, before you decide on having an enhancement. Most enhancements are carried out between 3 and 6 months after the first eye surgery. This is because it is common for the eye to regress back to a fixed refractive error, and enhancement should not be performed until the regression has resolved.
A hyperopic patient is more difficult to predictably correct via surgery when compared with a myopic patient. And therefore, a hyperopic patent is more likely to require an enhancement surgery. If your initial eye surgery was LASIK or IntraLASIK, the surgeon would typically lift the existing flap and cut out the corneal surface at the location of the original flap. Though the LASIK flap adheres to the stroma, it can still be lifted, thereby averting the need to create a new flap.
With the advances in laser technology and an increase in the experience of eye surgeons, enhancement cases have significantly dropped. However, some cases might still occur that necessitate enhancement surgery.
Enhancement surgery is not something to be anxious about, since an enhancement surgery would typically accomplish the desired results, which were somehow missed during the first surgery.
If you find a LASIK surgeon that you are confident with, you will be able to get more information about eye enhancement surgery.

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For more info, you can visit this page on www.lasika.org