What does laser eye surgery involve?

Laser eye surgery is a popular and effective way to correct vision problems like short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism. For many, the idea of seeing clearly without glasses or contact lenses is life-changing. However, before undergoing the procedure, it’s natural to have questions about what exactly laser eye surgery involves. This blog post will provide a clear and concise overview of the process, from the initial consultation to the recovery phase.

Understanding Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery, is a procedure that reshapes the cornea to improve how light is focused on the retina. This results in clearer vision. The most common types of laser eye surgery are LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), and SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). Each method has its specific uses and benefits, depending on the patient’s eye condition.

The Initial Consultation

The first step in the laser eye surgery process is a thorough consultation with an eye specialist. During this consultation, the specialist will:

• Assess Your Vision:

  A series of tests will be conducted to measure your eye prescription, the shape and thickness of your cornea, and the overall health of your eyes. These tests help determine if you are a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery.

• Discuss Your Medical History:

  The specialist will ask about your medical history, including any previous eye conditions or surgeries, to ensure that laser eye surgery is a safe option for you.

• Explain the Procedure:

  Your specialist will explain the different types of laser eye surgery and recommend the one that best suits your needs. This is your opportunity to ask any questions and address any concerns you may have.

• Determine Suitability:

  Not everyone is a candidate for laser eye surgery. Factors like age, prescription stability, and overall eye health will determine your eligibility. If you are a suitable candidate, the specialist will help you plan the next steps.

Preparing for Surgery

Once you have decided to proceed with laser eye surgery, your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions to prepare for the procedure. These may include:

• Avoiding Contact Lenses:

  You may be asked to stop wearing contact lenses for a certain period before the surgery. Contact lenses can alter the shape of your cornea, so it’s important that your eyes return to their natural shape before the procedure.

• Arranging Transportation:

  Since your vision may be blurry immediately after the surgery, it’s important to arrange for someone to drive you home. You will not be able to drive yourself.

• Following Pre-Surgery Guidelines:

  Your surgeon may give you additional guidelines, such as avoiding makeup or certain medications, in the days leading up to the surgery.

The Day of Surgery

Laser eye surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day. Here’s what you can expect on the day of your surgery:

• Arrival at the Clinic:

You’ll be asked to arrive a bit early so that the clinic staff can prepare you for the procedure. This may include final checks and applying numbing eye drops to ensure you are comfortable.

• The Procedure:

1. Numbing the Eyes: The surgeon will apply numbing drops to your eyes to prevent any pain during the surgery. You might feel some pressure, but you should not feel any discomfort.
2. Creating the Flap (LASIK): In LASIK surgery, the surgeon creates a thin flap on the surface of the cornea. This flap is lifted to allow the laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue.
3. Reshaping the Cornea: The laser reshapes the cornea to correct the vision problem. The process is guided by a computer to ensure precision. For PRK and SMILE, the process is slightly different, but the goal remains the same—reshaping the cornea for better vision.
4. Repositioning the Flap: In LASIK, the corneal flap is carefully repositioned after the laser treatment. The flap acts as a natural bandage, promoting healing.
5. Immediate Post-Operative Care: After the procedure, you’ll rest in a recovery area for a short time. The clinic staff will provide you with protective eyewear and go over the post-operative care instructions. Your vision may be blurry at first, but this usually improves within a few hours.

The Recovery Process

Recovery from laser eye surgery is typically quick, but it’s important to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

• First 24 Hours:

  Rest your eyes as much as possible. Avoid strenuous activities, screen time, and bright lights. Use the prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.

• First Week:

  Your surgeon will likely recommend avoiding swimming, heavy lifting, and rubbing your eyes. You may need to wear protective eyewear, especially while sleeping, to prevent accidental rubbing.

• Follow-Up Appointments:

  Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress. Your surgeon will check your vision and the condition of your eyes to ensure everything is healing properly.

• Long-Term Care:

  Your vision should stabilise within a few weeks, but it can take several months for your eyes to fully heal. Continue to protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses outdoors and follow any additional instructions from your surgeon.

Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery offers numerous benefits, including:

• Improved Vision:

  Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after the surgery, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.

• Quick Recovery:

  Many patients return to normal activities within a few days.

• Long-Lasting Results:

  The results of laser eye surgery are typically long-lasting, with many patients enjoying clear vision for years.

Conclusion

Laser eye surgery is a precise, safe, and effective procedure that can transform your vision and improve your quality of life. Understanding what the surgery involves can help you prepare and feel more confident about the process. With a quick recovery time and lasting results, laser eye surgery is a great option for those looking to reduce their dependency on glasses or contact lenses.

Considering laser eye surgery? Book a free video call with one of our specialists to discuss your options, ask any questions you have, and learn more about the procedure. Take the first step towards clearer vision today!