Trends in Eye Care
The latest trends in vision correction include advancements in laser vision correction (LVC) and lens-based surgeries, as well as the emergence of telehealth as an alternative to traditional doctor’s appointments. Here are some specific trends in vision correction:
Recently introduced is the Tecnis Odyssey. This is designed to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses for distance, intermediate and near.
– **Small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE)**: This is currently the fastest-growing LVC procedure with visual results similar to LASIK. There are fewer flap complications and less postoperative dryness and discomfort. There is a learning curve, so be sure you are not the first 50 patients for your surgeon! Another tried and true, no flap complication, procedure is PRK. This procedure completely eliminates flap related complications as no flap is created. Schedule an appointment so we can determine if you are a candidate for this vision transforming procedure that has now been used successfully for over 25 years!
– **Topography-guided LASIK**: This cutting-edge technology uses detailed corneal mapping to create a customized treatment plan for each patient. Surgeons can more accurately correct higher-order aberrations, resulting in improved vision quality and reduced nighttime glare or halos. Topography-guided LASIK has shown to be especially beneficial for patients with irregular corneas and those previously considered poor candidates for LASIK. This select population is likely less than 5% of candidates for laser vision correction and it is virtually impossible to determine the ultimate impact of subtle topography imperfections.
– **Telehealth**: This is an emerging trend in the eye care industry as an alternative to traditional doctor’s appointments. Telehealth can be used for vision correction consultations, follow-up appointments, and even for prescribing glasses or contact lenses.
– **Increased demand for refractive surgery**: From the start of the pandemic in March 2020, laser vision correction procedure volume grew steadily, topping 833,000 in 2021. This number of procedures, the highest since 2015, marked an increase of 32% over the previous year.
– **Newer options for LVC and lens-based surgery**: Refractive surgery is no longer limited to LASIK but includes newer options for LVC and lens-based surgery. Patients with presbyopia, a condition that affects approximately one-third of US adults, have been underserved historically. The research and development of new procedures and technology, however, is improving. We have been providing this technology for over 20 years and the newest lenses promise to reduce or eliminate glasses for a lifetime correcting near, far, and astigmatism. It is important to note that this procedure may be off-label and only a thorough discussion of the risks, alternatives, benefits, and potential complications can determine if this procedure is right for you.
Overall, the latest trends in vision correction involve advancements in technology and increased demand for refractive surgery. These trends are making vision correction safer, more effective, and more accessible to patients with a variety of vision problems.