What is a cornea specialist? And what role do they play in laser vision correction procedures like LASIK?
The answer lies in the importance of the cornea for general eye health. It also lies in the central role the cornea plays in LASIK. Read on to learn more!
Cornea Specialists and LASIK Surgery
A cornea specialist is a fantastic option for your LASIK surgeon, as well as for any other eye surgeries, too!
These highly-trained doctors are actually ophthalmologists with specialized training. This keeps them up to date on advancements in technology and procedures in their field.
Cornea specialists also undergo continuous education. This is to further ensure they remain up to date in all aspects of corneal care.
They must also know about the latest and most advanced surgical techniques. They also need to know any relevant developments in the medical field relating to the cornea.
If you need a corneal transplant, you’ll need to see a cornea specialist. But you also might want to consider these specialists for your LASIK procedure, as well.
The Role of the Cornea in LASIK
You know that a healthy cornea is an absolute necessity for sharp, clear vision. The cornea also plays a major role in LASIK surgery.
During LASIK, your surgeon will create a tiny flap in your cornea using a laser. This tiny flap on the outer layer of your cornea is then pulled back.
This allows the excimer laser access to the inner corneal layers for reshaping. This is what allows the laser to correct your vision.
The cornea is simply important in everyday life as well. The cornea protects the fragile parts of the eye from dirt and germs. It also provides over half of your eye’s ability to focus.
Many patients may not even know that cornea specialists exist. They may go straight to their eye doctor and then find a qualified and experienced LASIK surgeon.
LASIK candidates with certain symptoms or conditions may want to see a cornea specialist. This may be especially pertinent if a candidate has thinner corneas.
These are things that are brought up during a LASIK consultation as well.
When to See a Cornea Specialist
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms below, it is recommended that you make an appointment with a cornea specialist:
- Eye pain
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Redness of the eye that is not normally there
- Nausea and/or headache accompanying eye pain
- Frequent or excessive tearing up of the eye or eyes
It is true that any of the above symptoms can be indicative of a problem unrelated to your corneal health. It is imperative that any corneal issues be taken care of first. Once they are, you can take care of other eye problems.
Wondering if you should see a cornea specialist? Considering LASIK but not sure if you’re a candidate?
Schedule a LASIK consultation at Ellis Eye in San Francisco, CA! We can help you determine if you need to see a cornea specialist or not!
