Vision Correction

Vision impaired setting sights on space-inspired laser technology

More than three million Australians are set to benefit from a quantum leap in vision correction with the launch of a 'space-like' laser device, in Sydney today.

VISX Vision - the next generation in laser eye surgery - corrects short-sightedness, long-sightedness, astigmatism and imperfections, which have to date, been unmeasurable.

The versatile technology, similar to that used by scientists to view stars and planets in space, is also designed for those previously considered unsuitable for laser vision correction.

According to Dr Con Moshegov, principal ophthalmologist at Perfect Vision, Sydney, the VISX laser is the new "gold standard" in Australian laser vision correction.

"The VISX laser system is at the cutting edge of technology. Other vision correction procedures use tracker technology developed originally for military purposes, whereas the VISX laser has been designed specifically for ophthalmology.

"The revolutionary technology uses a WavePrint map to measure light waves travelling through the eye. Rather than mapping only the corneal surface of the eye (as existing lasers do), this technology reveals the way a person's entire optical system processes light, providing a more precise and detailed vision analysis," said
Dr Moshegov.

Approved by the United States Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and preferred by 70 per cent of ophthalmologists world-wide, the VISX laser has an excellent safety record. In fact, more than two million people worldwide, including eye care specialists and their staff, have undergone successful procedures with the VISX laser.

The VISX laser system offers significant improvement on the current vision correction procedures available. It uses the most advanced 3-D eye movement tracking system, offering greater accuracy and less risk of error. It is also customised to each patient, producing a smooth surface on the cornea after the procedure, which promotes faster healing and better vision. The laser also achieves a large, effective optical zone that may reduce problems with night vision.

"Because the procedure is painless and up to 50 per cent faster than other vision correction procedures (taking only a matter of minutes), this makes it more comfortable, permitting a next-day recovery and possibly reducing the risk of any post-treatment complications." said Dr Moshegov.

Since its launch in 1991, Australians have embraced laser vision correction with an enthusiasm rarely seen.

More than 10 million Australians are suffering from vision problems, including long-sightedness (22 per cent), short-sightedness (21 per cent) and presbyopia (9 per cent).

"Of these people, approximately 20,000 underwent vision correction procedures last year," said Dr Moshegov.

Sydney-based solicitor, Sally Broadley, 29, who recently underwent the VISX procedure, says it has made a dramatic improvement to her quality of life.

"I'm really pleased with the results of my procedure. As an active person who lives near the beach, it's made such a difference to the swimming, tennis, golf and other outdoor sports that I play. As a solicitor, it's made me feel more comfortable and confident with appearing in Court and attending conferences. It also means I no longer need to fuss around with wearing glasses and contacts."

Fran Macpherson, mother to Mimi and Elle, is now also enjoying life through perfect eyes. Fran was suffering from long-sightedness, caused by the lenses of the eye becoming less flexible with age. The lenses can also become cloudy, eventually resulting in cataracts.

So the mother of four decided to address her poor eyesight. After visiting four specialists and being informed that she was an unsuitable candidate for laser eye surgery, she put her trust in Sydney ophthalmologist, Dr Moshegov.

She explains: "It's the most amazing thing that has ever happened to me. I can't stop telling people about it. It's like being pregnant - it's all you can talk about."

Perfect Vision is the only laser vision correction centre in Australia offering the advanced VISX Vision technology and live procedures visible to the public once a month. The VISX procedure is unsuitable for children and women who are pregnant or nursing.

Those seeking more information about the VISX Vision technology or to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the vision correction procedure, should call Perfect Vision on 13 13 19 or visit www.perfectvision.com.au.