Laser eye surgery is a popular and effective procedure used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea, the procedure allows light to focus properly on the retina, leading to clearer vision. The surgery itself is quick, typically taking less than 30 minutes, and offers long-term vision correction. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, understanding the process can help you feel more prepared and confident. Here’s a detailed look at what happens before, during, and after the procedure.
Before the Surgery: Preparation and Evaluation
Before undergoing laser eye surgery, your ophthalmologist will perform a thorough eye examination to determine if you are a suitable candidate. This includes:
- Measuring the thickness and curvature of your cornea
- Checking your overall eye health
- Mapping the surface of your eye with advanced imaging technology
On the day of the procedure, you will be asked to avoid wearing makeup, lotions, or perfume to prevent contamination. Once you arrive Implantable collamer lens surgery at the clinic, numbing eye drops will be applied to prevent discomfort. Some patients may also receive medication to help them relax before the procedure begins.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Surgery
1. Creating the Corneal Flap
For LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis), the first step involves creating a thin flap in the cornea. This is done using either a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. The flap is then lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
In PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), another type of laser eye surgery, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed instead of creating a flap. This layer naturally regenerates over time.
2. Reshaping the Cornea
With the corneal tissue exposed, an excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea. The laser precisely removes microscopic amounts of tissue based on your specific vision prescription.
- For nearsightedness (myopia): The cornea is flattened.
- For farsightedness (hyperopia): The cornea is steepened.
- For astigmatism: The cornea is smoothed to achieve a more uniform shape.
This step is quick, usually lasting less than a minute per eye. A computer-controlled tracking system ensures the laser remains accurate, even if there is slight eye movement.
3. Replacing the Corneal Flap or Applying a Protective Lens
In LASIK, once the cornea is reshaped, the flap is repositioned, where it naturally adheres without stitches. In PRK, since no flap is created, a protective contact lens is placed over the eye to aid healing.
After the Surgery: Recovery and Healing
Immediately after the procedure, you may experience blurry vision, but this usually improves within a few hours. Some common temporary side effects include:
- Mild discomfort or irritation
- Dry eyes
- Sensitivity to light
Your doctor will provide medicated eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It is crucial to avoid rubbing your eyes and to follow post-operative care instructions carefully. Most patients notice significant improvement in their vision within 24 to 48 hours, though full recovery may take a few weeks. Follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your progress.
Laser eye surgery is a safe and effective solution for vision correction, offering long-term benefits with minimal recovery time. By understanding the step-by-step process, you can approach the procedure with confidence. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, consult an experienced ophthalmologist to determine if it’s the right choice for you.