Laser Thermal Keratoplasty

Laser Thermal Keratoplasty (LTK) is a laser-assisted surgery that is used to aid in persons suffering from farsightedness. The laser is a highly concentrated holmium beam that actually molds the cornea into a more normal shape. Laser Thermal Keratoplasty does not cut the cornea, like other corneal surgical procedures. The laser used creates a shrinking effect on the collagen in the cornea. This shrinkage leads to slight stiffening which causes the cornea and the eye to be reshaped.

Laser Thermal Keratoplasty can help in correcting most cases of farsightedness and usually results in the patient not having to wear corrective aids to see. Laser Thermal Keratoplasty also has a very quick recovery period that makes it an attractive surgical procedure. LTK uses some of the same techniques and philosophies as LASIK.

Both pre and postoperative care is vital in a successful outcome. Before the surgery the patient will have a comprehensive eye examination that will pinpoint the specific vision related issue. Once things like corneal shape and thickness are determined the doctor will prescribe the best course of surgical options available to the patient. The patient's medical history and other eye related problems are important to know and the doctor should discuss these at length with the patient.

As in most surgeries, Laser Thermal Keratoplasty requires a slight anesthesia that is administered in the form of eye drops. The surgery takes place with the patient's head upright and looking forward. The holmium beam is activated and takes only a few seconds to work. Most people get treatment on both eyes. Patients can usually return home shortly after the Laser Thermal Keratoplasty.

The entire treatment can last up to thirty minutes but this includes both eyes, application of anesthesia, and time for drying and recovery.

The actual application of the laser to the eye takes three seconds. But including the application of anesthesia and a necessary three minutes for the eye's tear film to dry, the procedure runs about 10 or 15 minutes per eye. Laser Thermal Keratoplasty usually takes place in an ophthalmologist's office or surgery center.

The only pain or discomfort may occur after the patient's surgery. This discomfort usually comes in the form of a slight irritating sensation in the eyes. This irritation from Laser Thermal Keratoplasty usually disappears very quickly. Other discomfort may come from having to undergo surgery, but Valium or other medication aids in relaxing the patient.

Because eye surgery for correcting vision is always undergoing changes and advances, you should only contact an eye surgeon who has years of experience in a variety of techniques. Most experienced LASIK surgeons are familiar with new and cutting edge technologies like Laser Thermal Keratoplasty and are well able to handle any and all cases.

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