If you are seeking ways to correct your nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism (irregularly shaped cornea) or just have a desire to decrease or eliminate dependence on glasses or contacts, we can help.  Our practice offers a variety of refractive surgical options in including Advanced Surface Treatment, PRK & LASIK.  Our refractive surgeon, Dr. Jay Novetsky carries years of experience with him in performing refractive surgery in the Detroit metropolitan area, and has successfully performed thousands of procedures.  All laser vision correction procedures are performed at the Laser Institute of Michigan in Fraser; pre- and post- operative care is offered at any Vision Institute of Michigan location.

Safety Is Important

AST is an acronym for Advanced Surface Treatment. This is an excellent technique for treating nearsightedness, farsightedeness, and astigmatism in individuals that are not optimal for the LASIK procedure.  Reasons for choosing AST over LASIK include eliminating the risk of certain types of complications, having thin corneas or loose epithelium of the cornea.

Before the development of LASIK, laser vision correction was first performed on the surface of the eye and was called photorefractive keratectomy or PRK.  PRK has been shown to have identical long term visual results as LASIK, but had the disadvantage of slower visual recovery, sometimes as long as 6 weeks, and more discomfort.  Traditional PRK also required the use of medicated eye drops for usually a period of 3 or more months.

Advanced Surface Treatment is different from PRK in that there is faster visual recovery and improved comfort.  This is achieved by using new methods that were not available when PRK was first developed. In AST, anesthetic drops are applied to the eye for comfort.  The epithelium, which is the surface layer of the cornea, is then gently removed by a soft automated brush.  Laser treatment is then performed to reshape the eye to the appropriate prescription.  Immediately after the laser treatment, a physiologically balanced solution is used to rinse the cornea.  Finally, a clear bandage contact lens is placed on the eye for several days until the epithelium regenerates.

The result of these new methods is improved comfort and faster healing after surface laser treatment.  Usually patients see well within several days after AST treatment and only use medicated drops for the first several weeks after the procedure.  Today, AST is an excellent alternative for patients that are not ideal for the LASIK procedure.

There are many ways to achieve the goal of good vision and freedom from corrective lenses.  A personal consultation with Dr. Novetsky gives you the opportunity to discuss and determine your options.  Prior to scheduling your appointment for LASIK surgery, patients must have a thorough examination of the eye's health, as well as testing & measurements.  The exam's fee is credited to surgery at the time of payment.

Contact one of our four convenient Michigan locations for more information or to schedule your appointment.