Everything you need to know about laser eye surgery: a comprehensive guide

Laser eye surgery has become a transformative solution for millions of people worldwide, offering a life free from the need for glasses or contact lenses. Whether you’re struggling with short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism, laser eye surgery could be the key to clearer vision. However, understanding how it works, what the different procedures involve, and what to expect both before and after surgery is essential before making a decision.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about laser eye surgery, from how it works to what the recovery process looks like.

What is Laser Eye Surgery?

Laser eye surgery, often known as refractive surgery, is a medical procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. The goal is to correct vision problems by improving how light enters the eye and focuses on the retina. This reshaping process can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

The most common vision problems treated by laser eye surgery are:

• Myopia (short-sightedness): Difficulty seeing objects at a distance.
• Hyperopia (long-sightedness): Difficulty focusing on nearby objects.
• Astigmatism: Blurred or distorted vision caused by an irregularly shaped cornea.

Types of Laser Eye Surgery

There are three main types of laser eye surgery, each offering different benefits depending on your vision needs.

1. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)
LASIK is the most well-known and widely performed laser eye surgery. During the procedure, the surgeon creates a thin flap in the cornea using a femtosecond laser. The underlying tissue is then reshaped using an excimer laser, and the flap is repositioned.

Benefits: Quick recovery, minimal discomfort, and fast visual improvements (often within 24 to 48 hours).
Ideal for: Patients with mild to moderate vision problems, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

2. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

PRK is similar to LASIK but without the need to create a corneal flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea is removed, and the underlying tissue is reshaped with a laser. The outer layer then regenerates over time.

Benefits: Suitable for patients with thinner corneas or those at risk of developing flap complications.
Ideal for: Individuals with mild to moderate vision problems who are not eligible for LASIK.

3. SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)

SMILE is a minimally invasive procedure where the surgeon uses a laser to create a small incision in the cornea and removes a small piece of tissue (called a lenticule) to correct vision.

Benefits: Fewer risks of dry eyes and quicker recovery than LASIK.
Ideal for: Patients with mild to moderate myopia or astigmatism.

Who is a Suitable Candidate for Laser Eye Surgery?

Not everyone is eligible for laser eye surgery. Here are some key factors that determine whether you are a good candidate:

• Stable prescription: Your vision prescription should remain stable for at least a year before undergoing surgery.
• Age: You must be at least 18 years old. However, most patients are in their 20s or older when they choose to undergo the procedure.
• Good general eye health: You should be free from eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, or severe dry eye syndrome.
• General health: Patients with autoimmune diseases, uncontrolled diabetes, or other conditions that affect healing may not be suitable candidates.
• Corneal thickness: LASIK and other laser surgeries require a certain corneal thickness to be performed safely.

What to Expect Before Laser Eye Surgery

Before the surgery, you will need a comprehensive eye examination. This will include measuring the shape and thickness of your cornea, checking your vision prescription, and assessing the health of your eyes. Your surgeon will also discuss your medical history and any medications you may be taking.

If you wear contact lenses, you may be asked to stop using them a few weeks before your consultation, as contact lenses can alter the shape of your cornea.

What to Expect During Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery is typically quick and painless, taking about 30 minutes for both eyes. You will remain awake during the procedure, but your eyes will be numbed with special eye drops to prevent discomfort.

During the surgery, the surgeon uses a laser to reshape the cornea based on your specific vision correction needs. Most patients report feeling slight pressure but no pain.

Recovery After Laser Eye Surgery

After the procedure, your eyes may feel dry or gritty, and your vision may be blurry for the first few hours. Most patients notice significant improvement in their vision within 24 to 48 hours, though full recovery can take a few weeks.

You’ll be prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and promote healing. It’s essential to avoid rubbing your eyes and to wear protective eyewear while sleeping for the first few nights. Additionally, avoid activities that could strain your eyes, such as reading, screen time, or driving, for the first day or two.

You’ll also need to attend follow-up appointments to ensure your eyes are healing properly and that there are no complications.

Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery

The benefits of laser eye surgery are significant, and many patients report an improved quality of life after the procedure. These benefits include:

• Clear vision without glasses or contact lenses: Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better, allowing them to see clearly without relying on visual aids.
• Quick recovery: Many patients return to work and their regular activities within a few days.
• Long-term savings: The cost of laser eye surgery may be high initially, but it eliminates the ongoing cost of glasses, contact lenses, and lens solutions.
• Confidence boost: Many patients feel more confident after the procedure, especially in situations where glasses or contact lenses are inconvenient, such as during sports or swimming.

Potential Risks and Complications

While laser eye surgery is generally safe and highly effective, there are some potential risks and side effects to consider, including:

• Dry eyes: Some patients experience dry eyes after surgery, but this is usually temporary and can be managed with eye drops.
• Glare or halos: Some patients notice halos or glare around lights, particularly at night, but this typically improves over time.
• Under-correction or over-correction: In rare cases, you may still need glasses or a follow-up procedure to achieve the desired results.

Conclusion

Laser eye surgery offers a long-term solution to vision problems, providing clear vision and freedom from glasses or contact lenses. Whether you’re considering LASIK, PRK, or SMILE, understanding the procedure, recovery, and benefits is key to making an informed decision.

If you’re ready to explore whether laser eye surgery is right for you, book a free video call with one of our team members today. We’ll guide you through the process and help you achieve the vision you’ve always wanted.