Although advances in technology and aftercare have increased the range of people who can benefit from laser eye surgery, there are still some conditions which cannot be treated using the techniques mentioned above. Instead, there are some alternative treatments on offer; details of these are outlined below:
Cataract surgery: cataracts are common in older people; they lead to clouding across the eye, which can interfere with the way light passes through the eye, causing vision to become blurred. Cataracts are a progressive condition, which means it gets worse over the course of time. Cataract surgery uses ultrasound technology to remove the cataract and replace it with a plastic lens. Cataract surgery is usually available on the NHS; however, there may be a long waiting list so many patients choose to opt for private treatment.
Implantable contact lenses: this is a revolutionary treatment, which can be used to treat a whole range of different ophthalmic conditions. This procedure involves inserting a lens into the eye; the lens is specially manufactured to suit the individual�s prescription.
CK (conductive keratoplasty) treatment: this is a very quick and simple treatment which has been developed to eradicate the need for reading glasses (this often results from the shape of the lens changing because of ageing). This is a non-invasive procedure that uses radio waves to slightly shrink the tissue in the eye.
Guide to Laser Eye Surgery
- Laser eye surgery intro
- Alternative treatments to laser eye surgery
- Who can benefit from laser eye surgery?
- How do I know which surgeon or clinic to choose?
- How much does laser eye surgery cost?
- Is laser eye surgery painful?
- When can I play sport and drive after laser eye surgery?
- What precautions should I take after surgery?
- Why have laser eye surgery?
- How long does the laser eye surgery procedure last?
- How long does recovery from laser eye surgery take?
- How long do the results of laser eye surgery last?
- What are the risks involved with laser eye surgery?
- Is laser eye surgery safe?
- Can I have both eyes done on the same day?
- Is laser eye surgery suitable for everyone?
- Types of laser eye surgery treatment