Laser Vision Correction in Denver, CO
Understanding Laser Vision Correction
When it comes to laser vision correction (LVC) surgery, it’s important to know what your options are. An LVC procedure is usually performed to correct one of three vision problems: myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. In nearsightedness, laser surgery is used to flatten the cornea. In farsightedness, laser surgery is used to steepen the cornea. If you have astigmatism, then your cornea has both areas that need to be steepened and flattened. LVC surgeries include PRK, LASIK.
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
PRK involves the use of an excimer laser to shave the corneal surface, changing its shape and thereby correcting myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. It is very accurate and the success rate is extremely high. This is especially true for patients with low to moderate levels of myopia (nearsightedness). Some patients experience discomfort or pain for a day or two after PRK, but this can be controlled with medication. Good vision is usually achieved between one and three weeks.
Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)
(LASIK) also utilizes an excimer laser to flatten or steepen the cornea. However, with LASIK the flattening is accomplished within the cornea (not on the corneal surface.) In order to do this, Dr. Pennington first creates a corneal flap, lifts the flap, and applies laser treatment to the inner layers of the cornea. The flap is then replaced in its previous location and recovery of vision is usually very rapid and painless. The recovery of vision after LASIK is truly remarkable. The vast majority of patients whom we have treated have been able to see so clearly that they could drive without glasses and return to normal activities, including work, in less than 24 hours. In fact, most of our patients achieve 20/20 vision, or so close to it that they cannot tell the difference, within a few days after LASIK.
Interested in a free laser vision correction consultation?
Before Laser Vision Correction
One of the most important factors in obtaining an excellent result from laser vision correction is the accurate measurement of your prescription before laser treatment. Since the lens within the eye has the ability to change its shape and therefore focus light to a different extent from moment to moment, it is not always possible to accurately measure the eyeglass prescription required by a patient unless this focusing mechanism is inactivated. This is readily accomplished by the administration of a special eye drop that simultaneously dilates the pupil and paralyzes the focusing muscle of the lens. With the lens unable to change its focus, an accurate refraction can be achieved.
We need to determine the size of the pupil. Using a telescopic lens system, the diameter of the pupil can be accurately measured. Once we know the size, we can accurately predict who is most at risk to develop glare after LVC and thereby make the best decision as to whether or not the procedure should be performed.
The corneal curvature must also be determined. This is because there are limits to the steepening that can be safely induced to correct farsightedness. Similarly, the corneal thickness must be determined in order to be certain that it will be adequate for laser surgery of the cornea.
Interested in other options?
FAQs
-
If you're tired of glasses or contact lenses, you’ve likely wondered: Am I a candidate for LASIK or PRK? These laser vision correction procedures can dramatically reduce dependence on corrective lenses—but not everyone is an ideal fit.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, then reshaping the underlying tissue with a laser to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. It's quick, effective, and offers a fast recovery. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) also reshapes the cornea with a laser but removes the outer corneal layer instead of creating a flap. PRK is often recommended for patients with thinner corneas or certain occupational or lifestyle risks (e.g., athletes or military personnel).
You may be a candidate for LASIK or PRK if you:
Are at least 18 years old
Have a stable prescription for at least one year
Have healthy eyes with no significant corneal disease, dry eye, or uncontrolled systemic illness
Are not pregnant or nursing
LASIK typically requires a thicker cornea to safely create the flap, so if your corneas are thinner, PRK may be safer. Those with extreme prescriptions or certain eye conditions may not be suitable for either procedure, but other options like implantable contact lenses or refractive lens exchange might be considered.
A comprehensive evaluation by a refractive surgeon is essential. Through corneal mapping, prescription analysis, and a detailed eye exam, your doctor can determine which—if any—procedure is right for you.
-
LASIK / PRK surgery typically costs $2,500 per eye.
-
LASIK Recovery:
Initial recovery: Most patients see clearly within 24 to 48 hours.
Functional vision: Often returns the next day, with rapid improvement over the first week.
Full stabilization: Vision usually stabilizes within 1 to 3 months.
Discomfort: Minimal—some patients report mild dryness or scratchiness for a few days.
Because LASIK involves creating a corneal flap, the healing is faster and more comfortable than PRK for most people. Many return to work and daily activities within a day or two, though contact sports and eye rubbing should be avoided for a few weeks.
PRK Recovery:
Initial recovery: Vision is blurry for the first 3 to 5 days as the surface layer of the cornea heals.
Functional vision: Usually improves by 1 to 2 weeks, but not as quickly or sharply as LASIK.
Full stabilization: Can take 1 to 3 months, sometimes longer for higher prescriptions.
Discomfort: Moderate—patients often experience light sensitivity, tearing, and discomfort for a few days. Pain control drops and bandage contact lenses are typically used during this period.
While PRK has a longer and slightly more uncomfortable recovery, it’s a better long-term option for certain patients, especially those with thinner corneas or higher risk of trauma. Both procedures ultimately provide comparable vision outcomes. Your surgeon can help you weigh recovery time against safety and suitability for your specific eyes.
-
Yes, you can get LASIK or PRK if you have astigmatism—in fact, correcting astigmatism is one of the most common reasons people undergo laser vision correction.
Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea (or sometimes the lens), leading to blurred or distorted vision. Modern laser technologies are highly effective at treating this irregularity by reshaping the cornea to a more symmetrical, rounded shape.
