Choosing the Right Vision Correction Procedure

Deciding on the right vision correction procedure is a critical step along the journey to improved quality of life and well-being. Our knowledgeable, caring team at Beach Cities Laser Vision in Long Beach and Torrance can discuss the pros and cons of each treatment with you, establishing the best approach for relieving your symptoms and restoring your peace of mind.

Consummate expertise meets best-in-class technology

Dr. Erica T. Liu is one of the few surgeons in the United States who can successfully perform all five state-of-the-art vision correction procedures approved by the FDA. With over 10,000 eye surgeries completed, she has an outstanding track record of positive results for her patients. Dr. Liu consistently employs the newest, most advanced equipment and techniques to optimize your vision and overall eye health.

Dr. Liu – A world-class training background

After graduating with honors from the University of California, Berkeley, with a double major in Neurobiology and Public Health, Dr. Liu attended medical school at the University of California, Irvine. She was then selected for an elite Ophthalmic Pathology and Research Fellowship at the University of Utah, Moran Eye Center, and an Ophthalmology Residency at Tufts Medical Center.

Next, Dr. Liu pursued demanding Fellowship training at the Shiley Eye Institute of the University of California, San Diego, further solidifying her intrepid skill set. Additionally, Dr. Liu has extensive trauma experience at the University of New Mexico Hospital, as well as in-depth training in the complex field of refractive surgery at the Navy Refractive Surgery Center.

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)

Under normal circumstances, the cornea and lens refract (bend) in such a way that light lands correctly on the retina, allowing the eye to transmit crystal-clear images to the brain. With nearsightedness, the light lands in front of the retina rather than on its surface, resulting in blurred distance vision.

SMILE is an FDA-approved refractive surgery that uses a different technique than other laser vision correction methods like LASIK or PRK. Rather than creating a corneal flap or completely removing the epithelium, SMILE eradicates refractive errors by utilizing an ultra-rapid femtosecond laser to remove a small, lens-shaped piece of corneal tissue through a tiny incision. This alters the shape of the cornea for improved eyesight. SMILE is FDA-approved to address both nearsightedness and astigmatism.

Other names or variants: ReLex SMILE, LALEX, CLEAR, small incision or minimally invasive LASIK, SMILE PRO

What are the benefits of SMILE?

Minimally invasive
Helps achieve clearer vision
Bladeless, painless procedure
Less invasive than LASIK
Quick recovery time
Lower risk of dry eye symptoms
No more need for glasses or contact lenses

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)

Patients with nearsightedness have corneas that are too steep and eyeballs that are too long to properly focus light on the retina and thus complete the appropriate signaling process to the brain that results in clear, sharp visual images. Farsighted individuals have flat corneas and short eyeballs, leaving the light to focus behind the retina instead of directly on it, which also compromises crisp eyesight.

LASIK surgery can reshape the cornea in these situations to allow light to hit the right spot on the retina, eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. During the procedure, a femtosecond laser creates and lifts a thin flap in the cornea and then reshapes the underlying tissue. The epithelium layer is left intact during this procedure, and patients experience little discomfort. Note that LASIK may not be suitable for individuals with thin corneas or severely dry eyes.

Other names or variants: Custom LASIK, Comfort LASIK, Wavefront-guided LASIK, Wavefront-optimized LASIK, Contoura (Topography-guided) LASIK, All-Laser LASIK, traditional LASIK, Blade-free LASIK

What are the benefits of LASIK?

Quick recovery time
Minimal discomfort
High success rate for correcting myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism
Cost-effective
Results can last 20 years or more
Eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses
No bandages or sutures after surgery
Excellent safety record
Patients enjoy their results immediately

ICL (Implantable Collamer Lenses)

An ICL, or Implantable Collamer Lens, is designed to correct nearsightedness, especially when other treatment options are unviable. The FDA-approved lens is designed with a biocompatible collagen copolymer, a compound that is similar to the naturally occurring proteins in the eye.

During surgery, a lens is inserted into the eye chamber behind the iris. It refocuses the light in such a way as to correct the eye’s natural refraction. An ICL can correct nearsightedness to a much higher degree than is typically possible with LASIK and PRK. It also comes with a faster recovery time when compared to other procedures. Unlike with LASIK and PRK, the ICL can be removed and replaced as needed. And unlike RLE, the natural eye lens remains intact inside the eye.

Other names or variants: Visian ICL, EVO ICL, EVO+ ICL

What are the benefits of ICL?

Quick recovery
Removable, replaceable lens
Reversible procedure
Works for those with thin corneas or severe myopia
Blocks harmful UV rays
Improves night vision
No maintenance required
Minimally invasive treatment
Excellent alternative to LASIK

RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange)

Similar to cataract surgery, RLE involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to correct myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia, or astigmatism, and also prevent cataract progression. One of the biggest advantages of RLE is that it provides a more powerful solution for nearsightedness than LASIK, and has also been shown to produce better outcomes for those with farsightedness. The drawbacks of RLE include its invasiveness, longer recovery period, and higher costs. The surgery also comes with some risks to be aware of, such as infection or retinal detachment.

The artificial lens in each eye can be customized to the patient’s needs. There are different types of lenses, including monofocal, multifocal, and EDoF (extended depth of field) lenses. EDof lenses are newer products that improve distance vision and may enhance contrast sensitivity. The shape and size of the pupil as well as the patient’s overall ocular health will influence the doctor’s recommendation for the best type of lens. It is important to let the doctor know about all your daily activities so she can select the best option for your needs.

Other names or variants: Clear Lens Extraction, Dysfunctional Lens Replacement, Custom Lens Replacement, Premium Cataract Surgery, Refractive Lens Replacement

What are the benefits of RLE?

Can address severe cases of myopia or hyperopia
Can treat age-related vision problems (presbyopia)
Helps prevent the development of cataracts
Improves distance vision
May reduce the need for laser vision correction or glasses

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

PRK can reshape the cornea, allowing you to see clearly without contacts or glasses. Unlike with LASIK, no flap creation is required, and the treatment can address more severe vision issues. Many patients who are not LASIK candidates will qualify for PRK.

During the procedure, the top cellular layer covering the eye (the epithelium) is gently removed. Next, a preprogrammed excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea according to your needs. Mitomycin C drops are briefly placed on the cornea to help prevent postoperative cloudiness. A soft contact lens is then inserted, which aids in the epithelium’s healing process. Within 3-7 days, the bandage contact lens is removed. While both PRK and LASIK produce excellent vision after surgery, PRK comes with a longer recovery period. The main benefit of getting PRK over LASIK surgery is that PRK preserves the strength of the cornea since no flap is created.

Other names or variants: Surface Ablation, Advanced Surface Ablation, LASEK

What are the benefits of PRK?

Safe for patients with thin or damaged corneas
Ideal for patients with dry eye syndrome
Eliminates risks associated with the creation of a corneal flap
Excellent alternative to LASIK surgery
Proven clinical results

The importance of a personalized approach

Dr. Liu understands that it can be overwhelming to digest a large amount of technical information about various vision correction procedures. She creates a relaxed, empowering environment where patients are free to learn at their own pace, ask questions, and enjoy concierge care from a compassionate, friendly team. Each patient has a unique set of concerns and needs, and Dr. Liu personalized her treatments to respect the individual.

During your private consultation, she will conduct a comprehensive eye exam, measuring your corneal thickness, pupil size, and degree of refractive error. She will also assess your overall eye health, review your medical history, and delve into your lifestyle needs. With Dr. Liu, you can expect a holistic approach that sets you at ease and prepares you for a seamless treatment experience.