Corneal Ring Segments
- About the Surgery
- Risks
- Who is a Candidate for Corneal Rings
- Treatment
- Clinic Information
- Complete List of Surgical Procedures at Kellogg
About Corneal Ring Segments
Corneal Ring Segments are the newest refractive surgery procedure, which has been approved by the FDA. Corneal ring segments are a non-laser surgical treatment for the correction of mild nearsightedness (myopia). An estimated 20 million U.S. adults have mild myopia, from -1.0 to -3.0 diopters, which is the treatment range for corneal rings. The rings are composed of the same material (PMMA) that has been safely used for nearly 50 years to treat patients with cataracts. First, the surgeon uses numbing eye drops. A small incision is made at the top of the eye. Then, a space is made on the left and right of the inner cornea for the placement of the crescent-shaped rings. Because of the cornea's extraordinary natural bonding qualities, this procedure does not require stitches.
Does it hurt?
Most people say they feel a certain amount of pressure during part of the procedure, but no pain. For all refractive surgery procedures the eye is anesthetized before surgery using eye drops. However, there may be some pain during the healing process. That discomfort is treated with pain medication when necessary.
How the rings correct vision
Corneal rings are surgically placed through a tiny incision that is made on the cornea. Once in place, the two arcs flatten the cornea so that light rays can properly focus on the retina. Since the rings are inserted in the outer edge of the cornea, the center of the cornea remains untouched. Advances in technology and surgical technique have made refractive surgery more accurate and safe with the vast majority of patients having their vision corrected to 20/40 or better, although some patients may still need to wear glasses or contact lenses to achieve their best vision.
How long does the procedure take?
It takes approximately 15 minutes to place the rings in your eye. The total procedure for one eye, including preparation time, is usually completed in less than one hour.Refractive surgery is done on an out-patient basis with most people returning to their normal activities within one to three days.
How long does it take before my vision is improved?
You should see some improvement in the first few days after the surgery, with slight improvements over the next couple of weeks. The full effect will be achieved within 4-6 months after surgery. Note that some patients may still need to wear glasses or contact lenses following their procedure.
What are some of the surgical risks?
The most common complications are over or under correction of refraction which may require adjustment. There is also a small risk of infection or scarring. Risks are discussed in detail with all patients evaluated for refractive surgery. It is important to discuss these risks with your doctor before you make your decision. Some of the post surgical symptoms include sensitivity to light, burning sensation, halos and difficulty with night vision.
Who is a Candidate for Corneal Rings?
You may be a candidate for corneal rings if you meet the following criteria:
- You are mildly nearsighted - your prescription is between -1.00 to -3.00 diopters, with no more than 1.00 diopter of astigmatism.
- You have healthy eyes, free from disease or injuries.
- You have had stable vision for one year.
- You are at lease 21 years of age.
