(Laser in-Situ Keratomileusis) is a painless procedure to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism by changing the shape of the eye's surface or cornea. The laser's cool beam of ultraviolet light removes a small amount of tissue, usually less than the thickness of a human hair. Then, short pulses of laser light change the curvature of the surface of the eye. This allows images to be more sharply focused on the retina, the inner lining of the eye, which is connected by the optic nerve to the brain.

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Dr. DiStefano was the first to offer Intralase, a completely blade-free LASIK, in Chattanooga.  Not only does this all-laser method speed up healing time, it is more precise than traditional LASIK using a microkeratome, giving you better results.  Read more about Intralase technology.

(Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) LASEK is another form of laser vision correction appropriate for patients with certain lifestyles. Athletes and skydivers, for example, may require this surgery which eliminates the need for a protective flap. Also, If you have thin corneas and are not a candidate for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis or LASIK laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK) may be a good option for you.

LASEK is usually performed as an outpatient procedure using topical anesthesia with eye drops.  Dr. DiStefano uses an alcohol solution to loosen and peel back the epithelium, the outermost layer of the cornea, to expose the corneal tissue beneath it. A cool excimer laser is used to permanently reshape the cornea, to expose the corneal tissue beneath it. A cool excimer laser is used to permanently reshape the cornea and the epithelium is either placed back into position, where it will self-adhere, or is removed completely, in which case the epithelium heals inward from the corneal periphery in just a few days.

Reshaping the cornea helps focus light directly onto the retina to produce clearer vision.  After the procedure, a transparent “bandage” contact lens is placed on the cornea to promote healing. As with any surgery, there are certain risks associated with LASEK.  Be sure to discuss these possible risks with the staff at DiStefano Eye Center.