Alta Bates IVF Program

Please visit us at our new location:
2101 4th Avenue, Suite 1360 Seattle WA 98121.

Call Us: 206.623.1758

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Refractive Surgery: Laser Thermal Keratoplasty (LTK)

LTK (laser thermal keratoplasty) is a technique for reshaping corneal tissue to help you see better without glasses or corrective lenses. This procedure uses a holmium laser to gently heat certain areas of the cornea. It shrinks the outer portion of the cornea, making the central cornea steeper.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Before treatment, you may be given medication to help you relax.
Eyedrops numb your eyes. A device is used to keep your eyes open.
Laser treatment lasts a few seconds for each eye.
Your vision should start to improve right away. It may take 3-6 months for your vision to become stable.

Pros of LTK

Very safe procedure with few complications
No touch procedure (no cutting or removal of corneal tissue)
No scarring in the central cornea
Low risk of dry eyes
Immediate vision improvement

Cons of LTK

Vision improvement may wear off over time
May take several months for vision to become stable
Risk of undercorrection or overcorrection
Risk of loss of best corrected vision

Publication Source: Lewis C

Online Source: Lewis C

Date Last Reviewed: 2004-09-08T00:00:00-06:00

Date Last Modified: 2003-06-23T00:00:00-06:00

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Testimonials

We see patients from the downtown Seattle, Belltown and South Lake Union areas of Seattle in King County, WA.

Our Staff

Dr. Feiten was born and raised in Wisconsin, attending the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh for her undergraduate studies. She graduated from Pacific University with her Doctor of Optometry degree in 1987. She practiced in Kentucky for seven years, receiving the Young OD of the Year Award in 1994.

Contact Us

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2101 4th Avenue, Suite 1360
Seattle, WA 98121
206.623.1758
Fax: 206.623.1759
Map and driving directions