Exciting New Breakthroughs in LASIK
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” isn’t a mantra that’s adopted in the world of eye care. Even since the introduction of PRK and LASIK to reshape the cornea, doctors, scientists, and researchers have continued to evolve the technology to create more cost-effective, efficient, and comfortable eye surgeries. In the past few years, the industry and technology have continued to evolve, bringing forth a new era of procedures that will provide excellent options for those with diminished eyesight. Here are some of the most exciting breakthroughs.
Artificial Retinas
Macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy are two common types of eye ailments that drastically impair or reduce a person’s vision. But with the invention of artificial retinas, doctors and researchers are confident that these patients can regain their sight. Made from molybdenum disulfide and graphene, these man-made retinas mimic the flexibility and light refraction of the retina. While the device is still in its clinical trial phases, researchers hope that this surgery can give sight to millions of sufferers within the next five to 10 years.
Brain Implants for the Blind
In what can only be described as something out of a science fiction novel, scientists have developed a brain implant that enables blind patients to regain basic vision. By opening the skull and attaching electrodes to the visual cortex, scientists can send electrical shocks to the brain that are connected to a camera. Through these electrodes, blind people can see basic shapes and light patterns. Whether this type of technology can lead to a permanent solution to blindness remains, but it’s an exciting first step.
Smartphone Retinal Imaging
Some electronic devices already use retinal scans to allow access to users. But with the advent of the telemedicine and telehealth industries, this technology is now allowing eye doctors to provide eye exams remotely. Using the latest advancements in retinal technology, doctors can now look at the fundus of the eye via camera, giving eye care to individuals who may not have had the opportunity otherwise.
Trifocal Lens
People suffering from cataracts may have the option to have their eye lens replaced, but the implant is only monofocal, or at least until now. Today, a trifocal lens allows cataract patients to regain like-new vision. This type of lens is implanted in the eye and provides 20/20 vision at three different distances. With a trifocal lens, people previously suffering from nearsightedness, farsightedness, or those that have trouble with the distance in between can successfully see all three distances with ease. They can also help with presbyopia in older patients, which causes problems with the elasticity of the lens, causing distorted or weakened vision.
Our practice at Lasik Center Medical Group is geared towards personalized custom Lasik treatments. Eyes aren’t created equally, neither are the treatments to give each patient 20/20 vision without glasses or contact lenses. Dr. Alexandra Chebil has performed over 70,000 procedures in a private practice centrally located in Orange County CA.
While some of these procedures may not become available for years, the science and research behind them provide an exciting basis for the future of eye care and eye health. But don’t let that deter you from taking care of vision problems now. Make sure to continue to schedule eye appointments to catch any impairments, improve your eyesight, or even consider LASIK surgery. Book your Lasik consultation today. The world’s just a bit more exciting when you see it in 20/20 vision.