LASIK is now the vision correction procedure of choice for many ophthalmologists worldwide. Instead of removing the surface epithelium with the laser and exposing many nerve endings (as in PRK), the surgeon performing LASIK uses a motor-powered microkeratome to create a "flap." The flap is then lifted and reflected back, allowing a computer guided Excimer laser (cold laser) to use light pulses to remodel the corneal tissue underneath. Afterward, the flap is gently positioned back onto the cornea. Since this procedure is less traumatic to the outer surface of the eye, vision is restored more quickly and the patient's discomfort is reduced. Most patients report greater comfort after surgery and can generally drive two to three days after the surgery.
Dr. Liang is the only doctor in the Sacramento area to have the SLT laser. The SLT laser is used on glaucoma patients to lower their intraocular pressure by using short pulses of low energy laser light which stimulates an increase in fluid outflow. This technique is much less traumatic to the eye than other types of lasers. This is a short, outpatient procedure performed in the physician’s office.