Ophthalmologists have been correcting vision surgically since the 1980’s.  With the introduction of the Excimer Laser the precision of vision correction increased considerably. The Excimer allows controlled removal of tiny amounts of the corneal surface (0.000004 of an inch) which results in gentle reshaping of the front surface of the eye.  By changing the shape of the eye in this manner images can be brought into focus more clearly, thus correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

Dr. Ranz performs Lasik to reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contact lenses.  The procedure consists of  the creation of a thin flap of corneal tissue, with an instrument called a microkeratome, followed by the application of the laser to the cornea.  The flap is then returned to its original position and it actually seals itself in place.  Because Lasik is performed under a protective flap, there is faster healing, less post-operative discomfort, and faster return to clear vision (often within 1 to 2 days) than with other laser vision procedures.  Although results may vary, most patients achieve the ability to legally drive without glasses or contact lenses.

Dr. Ranz now performs Lasik in the comfort and convenience of our office.  He uses the latest Visx Star S4 laser technology with eye-tracking to provide you with the highest quality procedure available.  

If  you can imagine many of your activities without glasses or contact lenses, or simply would like to wake-up and see the clock without reaching for your glasses, then the next step is to call the Stones River Eye Center and speak with Vickie, our refractive surgery coordinator.  She can perform a free screening to determine if you are a good candidate.  The next step is to schedule a comprehensive eye examination and consultation to evaluate the health of your eyes, including sophisticated measurements of the shape and thickness of your cornea.  Then together, you and Dr. Ranz can determine if Lasik is right for you.

Dr. Ranz understands that the decision to have Lasik is an important one.  That is why he wants you to have all the information that you need to make this decision.  It is important that you have realistic expectations.  Our goal is to help you achieve the level of vision that you desire, but Dr. Ranz cannot guarantee your results.  As part of your evaluation you will be provided with additional detailed information, including the small possibility that you will continue to need glasses or contact lenses after surgery.  We want you to have all of your questions answered before proceeding.

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) also uses the Excimer laser, but differs from Lasik in that the laser is applied directly to the surface of the cornea without the microkeratome creating a flap first.  This may be the best procedure for patient’s whose corneas are too thin for Lasik, or in other special circumstances.

CLEAR LENS EXTRACTION is performed much like cataract surgery.  This may be the best choice in patients with very high degrees of myopia or in farsightedness.  It is also a reasonable choice in older patients who desire vision correction and have already lost the ability to read without glasses.

ASTIGMATIC KERATOTOMY (AK) is a procedure involving the placement of a small incision in the cornea.  This is used in limited situations to correct astigmatism.

INTRAOCULAR CONTACT LENSES (ICL):  Dr. Ranz is looking forward to the introduction of the latest generation of the ICL so that in the future he can offer this technology to those patients who require a high degree of correction.

Call us for more information or to pre-register for your appointment 615-896-2551.