What is Corneal Topography and Why is it Performed Before and After LASIK?

Corneal topography is an important test used to map the surface curvature of the cornea. Because LASIK surgery changes the curvature of the cornea while additionally making the cornea thinner, corneal topography is performed before and after LASIK when determining if the weakened cornea affects the creation of the corneal flap during LASIK or if another procedure should be recommended. It also rules out any pre-existing corneal diseases that would also weaken the cornea. Corneal topography also helps determine the quality of vision after LASIK especially for minus power prescription limits. The amount of curvature change or flattening to the cornea depends on the power number being corrected. To preserve quality vision, surgeons rely on corneal topography to make that determination. 

Corneal topography is a quick painless test that produces a series of color-coded maps used to diagnose pre-operative strategy for LASIK as well as follow up to evaluate the results of the surgery. The most significant advantage to corneal topography is achieving optimal vision, which really is the goal of LASIK. Corneal topography reduces post-surgical complications such as reading difficulty, light sensitivity, glare, and trouble with nighttime driving. Other benefits include improved visualization of the structures of the eye, enhanced LASIK results, customized treatment and works well for patients with astigmatism. Corneal topography provides accurate and precise measurements of the cornea and in addition to LASIK can check for astigmatism, keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration, and growths such as pterygium. 

Testing only takes a few seconds in each eye. The technician or doctor will use reflection of rings to measure the shape and elevation of the cornea. The patient will align their chin and forehead and focus on a lighted target. The topographer is then positioned to focus on the cornea and a bright light will create ring reflection in the tera film. The spacing, contour and clarity of the rings will determine the shape of cornea during LASIK. If you are ready to see a world of difference in your vision, schedule your consultation by calling 605-718-5123 or book an appointment here WEBSITE. At Great Plains Eye Specialistswe offer the highest quality of services including thorough testing and evaluation of the eyes before and after LASIK surgery.