When discussing laser eye surgery, people typically refer to LASIK as the only option for vision correction. While it is still the most popular type of eye surgery, there are other alternatives for those who are not a candidate. Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA), also known as Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK), corrects a person’s vision by reshaping the cornea and improving focus. This type of surgery is performed with an excimer, laser, the same laser technology used in LASIK.
While LASIK involves the creation of a flap in the outer cornea, ASA surgery does not require the creation of a corneal flap. However, it requires more time to heal and patients may feel discomfort for 48-72 hours after surgery. ASA is a great alternative when LASIK is not an option for a patient, for various medical reasons including thin corneas or other irregularity. Dr. Kugler performs a very thorough evaluation and will customize the treatment plan to fit each patient’s unique needs.
Lance Kugler, MD, is a specialist in LASIK and vision correction surgery and CEO of Kugler Vision. A proud Omaha native, he is passionate about improving lives through clear vision. Dr. Kugler serves on several national boards, and his practice is recognized internationally as a center of excellence. Dr. Kugler is one of the original founders of the Refractive Surgery Alliance, an international organization comprised of over 350 of the world’s leading vision correction surgeons; he also served as its first president. In 2019, Dr. Kugler was selected as a TEDx speaker, and delivered a talk in Omaha about the worldwide epidemic of nearsightedness and refractive solutions. Dr. Kugler is an Associate Professor of Refractive Surgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Truhlsen Eye Institute, has been published in many medical journals, and participates in numerous clinical studies to advance the field of vision correction surgery. Additionally, Dr. Kugler is proud to be a Board Certified Fellow of the World College of Refractive Surgery & Visual Sciences. Dr. Kugler and his wife are proud parents to five active kids. When he has a spare moment, he enjoys skiing, tennis, travel, and fine coffee.
