Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRIs) is an ophthalmologist’s precise surgical technique for correcting mild to moderate astigmatism. This procedure entails making small incisions at the limbus, where the cornea and sclera meet, to reshape the cornea and rectify the abnormal curvature that causes astigmatism. The primary goal of LRIs is to improve visual acuity and reduce the dependency on corrective eyewear for individuals with astigmatism. Often performed alongside cataract surgery, this intervention aims to provide patients with clearer eyesight and eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
LRIs involve making tiny incisions around the cornea’s edge, the limbus. These incisions help “relax” the cornea’s steep curvature, enhancing the eye’s ability to focus light correctly. Compared to other astigmatism correction procedures, such as astigmatic keratotomy, LRIs offer faster healing and fewer side effects. During laser cataract surgery, these incisions can be made manually with a diamond blade or a Femtosecond Laser.
This procedure mainly benefits astigmatism patients wishing to improve their vision at various distances. Candidates must be in good overall health and have realistic expectations. While many experience significant vision improvements post-surgery, some may require glasses or contacts.
The cornea, the transparent front layer of the eye, plays a vital role in bending (refracting) light rays as they enter the eye. Clear vision requires the cornea to have the correct shape and clarity to focus light on the retina precisely. A corneal transplant may be recommended when the cornea becomes cloudy or distorted due to injury, infection, or disease.
Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) is a surgical technique that removes the damaged inner lining of the cornea and replaces it with a donor cornea. This procedure is performed through a smaller incision than traditional corneal transplants, resulting in quicker recovery and fewer risks.
Penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) is a procedure that replaces the entire thickness of the cornea with a donor graft. The new cornea is secured with stitches, usually removed after one year. Vision restoration may take this long, and many patients may need glasses or contact lenses following the procedure.
With recent technological advancements, PKP is less frequently performed than other corneal transplant techniques. After a comprehensive eye evaluation, your doctor will determine the most suitable procedure.
Maintaining a healthy cornea is critical for clear vision. The cornea on the eye’s outer surface protects against foreign debris and focuses light entering the eye. Given its prominent position, the cornea is susceptible to damage, disease, or scarring due to various factors:
A corneal transplant may be necessary if glasses or contact lenses fail to restore vision for daily tasks. This surgical procedure involves replacing part or all of the damaged cornea with healthy donor tissue from an eye bank. Fortunately, donor corneas are typically available on demand, eliminating the need for a waiting list.
Our experts, Dr. Kavanagh and Dr. Psolka at Eye Associates of South Texas offer corneal transplants tailored to your needs. The options include:
Before considering corneal transplantation, it’s essential to understand the risks, such as tissue rejection, infection, and corneal swelling. Trusting experienced ophthalmologists at Eye Associates of South Texas can help mitigate these risks. Contact us at 830-379-3937 to schedule an appointment with our skilled doctors today.
Pterygium is a non-cancerous, painless growth of the conjunctiva, the lining covering the white part of the eye. This growth can extend onto the cornea, affecting the iris and potentially impairing vision. It can appear in various colors, including red, pink, white, yellow, or gray.
Patients often notice pterygium due to eye lesions or symptoms like dry, itchy irritation, tearing, and redness. Initially, it appears confined to the conjunctiva and is called a pingueculum. Once it extends to the cornea, it becomes a pterygium and may impair vision. Mild cases can be managed with artificial tears to reduce dryness and irritation.
While the exact causes of pterygium remain unclear, UV light exposure is believed to be a primary factor. Living in dry, dusty, or windy environments also increases the risk. People near the equator or participating in water sports like surfing and fishing are particularly susceptible. Our doctors have extensive experience surgically removing these growths in South Texas, where pterygium is common.
To prevent pterygium, wear sunglasses that block UV rays, especially those with side coverage like Wiley X sunglasses, available at Eye Associates of South Texas Opticals. Additionally, wearing a hat with a brim and using artificial tears in hot, dry climates can help protect and lubricate the eyes.
Common symptoms of pterygium include dryness, redness, irritation, inflammation, and tearing. In severe cases, it may grow over the pupil, limiting vision. Surgical removal is often required for advanced cases.
Surgical intervention is necessary for patients experiencing severe pterygium cases affecting their vision. Known as a pterygiectomy, this procedure can be performed using two primary methods: autologous conjunctival auto-grafting or an amniotic membrane graft.
This technique involves the safe and effective removal of the pterygium along with the conjunctival tissue covering the sclera. The tissue that replaces the removed section is sourced from the inside of the patient’s upper eyelid.
Another reliable method for pterygium removal is the amniotic membrane graft. This procedure uses tissue from the inner layer of the human placenta to reconstruct the eye’s surface, promoting healing and reducing swelling.
Ready to learn more about these procedures? Contact us today for a consultation.
Mytomycin C (MMC) is a specialized chemical agent used in ophthalmology to combat scar tissue formation and minimize the likelihood of pterygium recurrence. Pterygium recurrence rates, which typically range between 30% and 40%, can be effectively reduced by applying MMC during surgical procedures. Its targeted action in inhibiting excessive tissue growth is crucial in postoperative care, ensuring improved outcomes for patients undergoing pterygium treatment.
In recurrent pterygium cases, MMC is applied during the pterygiectomy and then thoroughly rinsed out. Given the potential complications, such as scleral damage or vision loss, it is crucial to have an experienced physician perform this procedure.
Our Eye Surgeons at Eye Associates of South Texas have successfully performed hundreds of pterygium removal surgeries, boasting a meager recurrence rate due to our advanced surgical techniques.
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From routine exams to advanced treatments, we’re committed to safeguarding your vision.
From routine exams to advanced treatments, we’re committed to safeguarding your vision.
Eye Associates of South Texas delivers premier eye care, LASIK Eye Surgery, and Ophthalmology services in the South Texas region, backed by over 30 years of collective experience in comprehensive treatment and prevention of eye diseases.
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