Laser Surgery

With the latest advances in laser refractive surgery, there are several treatments to correct refractive eye conditions, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.

Laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) are two of the most common laser refractive procedures. They are performed with the excimer laser, a computer-controlled laser used by a surgeon to delicately sculpt the cornea for better focusing. The laser produces ultraviolet light that emits high-energy pulses lasting only billionths of a second.

The UCSF Vision Correction Center offers LASIK using cutting-edge technology, including wavefront-guided or custom treatment as well as "all-laser" LASIK through the use of the IntraLase ™ femtosecond laser. Each of our laser systems is capable of treating a wide range of refractive eye conditions using either conventional or custom modes. For patients who prefer PRK, also known as surface treatment, our surgeons offer the newest techniques, including laser eithelial keratomileusis (LASEK) and epi-LASIK (Epi-K).

UCSF and its specialists are recognized nationally as leaders in the diagnosis, treatment and research of eye disorders, including laser vision correction. Since 1995, the UCSF Vision Correction Center has participated in important Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clinical trials that have led to the approval of new refractive technologies such as PRK, LASIK and Intacs insertion.

Our mission is to provide the highest standard of surgical care using the latest techniques, advance the field of refractive surgery through research and educate our patients about surgical and non-surgical vision correction treatment options. We offer free educational evening seminars, patient education materials and personalized consultations about vision correction surgery, including the most advanced laser surgery techniques.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 9, 2008