What is laser eye surgery?

Laser eye surgery is a popular procedure designed to correct vision problems, helping people reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. It’s a life-changing option for many, offering clearer vision and greater freedom. In this blog, we’ll explore what laser eye surgery is, how it works, the different types available, and what you can expect during the process.

Understanding Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery, also known as laser vision correction or refractive surgery, uses advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. By altering the cornea’s shape, the surgery corrects refractive errors, improving how light rays are focused onto the retina. This leads to clearer vision.

Types of Refractive Errors

Vision correction surgery can correct several common refractive errors:

• Nearsightedness (Myopia): Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.
• Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Difficulty seeing close objects clearly.
• Astigmatism: Blurred vision caused by an irregularly shaped cornea.
• Presbyopia: Age-related difficulty in seeing close objects, usually corrected with reading glasses.

Common Types of Laser Eye Surgery

Several types of refractive surgery are available, each using different techniques to achieve the same goal: clear vision. Here are the most common types:

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)

LASIK is the most well-known type of refractive surgery. It involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, lifting it, and then using a laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. The flap is then repositioned. This procedure is quick, typically painless, and offers rapid recovery.

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

PRK is another popular option. Instead of creating a flap, the outer layer of the cornea is removed, and the underlying tissue is reshaped with a laser. The outer layer naturally regenerates over time. PRK has a slightly longer recovery period than LASIK but is equally effective.

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)

SMILE is a newer procedure that involves creating a small, lens-shaped piece of tissue within the cornea, which is then removed through a small incision. This technique does not require creating a corneal flap and is minimally invasive, with a quick recovery time.

The Procedure: What to Expect

Laser eye surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:

Before the Surgery

1. Consultation: Your eye surgeon will conduct a thorough eye exam to determine if you’re a good candidate for laser eye surgery. This includes measuring your cornea’s thickness, mapping the shape of your cornea, and checking for any eye conditions.
2. Preparation: If you wear contact lenses, you may need to stop wearing them for a period before the surgery, as they can alter the shape of your cornea.

During the Surgery

1. Numbing the Eye: Your eye will be numbed with anesthetic eye drops to ensure comfort during the procedure.
2. Creating the Flap: If you’re having LASIK, a small flap will be created in your cornea.
3. Reshaping the Cornea: The laser will precisely reshape your cornea to correct the refractive error.
4. Closing the Flap: The flap is repositioned, and the eye naturally heals without stitches.

The entire procedure usually takes about 15 minutes for both eyes.

After the Surgery

1. Recovery: You may experience some mild discomfort or blurry vision immediately after the surgery. This is normal and typically resolves within a few days.
2. Follow-Up: You’ll have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing and ensure your vision is improving as expected.
3. Results: Most people notice a significant improvement in their vision within a few days. Full recovery can take a few weeks.

Benefits of Laser Vision Correction

1. Improved Vision: Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better.
2. Quick Recovery: Many people return to their normal activities within a day or two.
3. Long-Term Results: The effects of laser eye surgery are usually permanent, though some people may need a touch-up procedure years later.
4. Freedom from Glasses and Contacts: Enjoy activities like swimming, sports, and travel without the hassle of corrective lenses.

Is Laser Eye Surgery Right for You?

Laser eye surgery can be a fantastic option for many people, but it’s important to determine if you’re a good candidate. Factors such as age, eye health, and prescription stability play a role. To help you decide, we offer a suitability self-test. This quick and easy test can give you a preliminary idea of whether laser eye surgery is right for you.