Laser eye surgery is a common procedure used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It works by reshaping the cornea so that light focuses properly on the retina, leading to clearer vision. The procedure is quick, typically taking less than 30 minutes, and offers long-term vision improvement. If you are considering laser eye surgery, understanding the process can help ease any concerns. Here’s a detailed walkthrough of what happens before, during, and after the surgery.
Before the procedure, your ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye examination to determine if you are a suitable candidate. This evaluation includes:
On the day of the surgery, you will be asked to avoid wearing makeup, lotions, or perfume to reduce the risk of contamination. Once at the clinic, numbing eye drops will be applied to ensure you do not feel pain during the procedure. You may also Implantable collamer lens surgery receive medication to help you relax.
For LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis), the procedure begins with creating a thin flap on the cornea. This can be done using a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. The flap is carefully lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
In PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), an alternative laser eye surgery, no flap is created. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed, allowing the laser to reshape the tissue underneath.
With the corneal tissue exposed, an excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea. This process is highly precise and typically takes less than a minute per eye. The adjustments depend on the vision problem being corrected:
The laser is guided by a computer system that tracks your eye movements in real time, ensuring high accuracy.
In LASIK, after the cornea is reshaped, the flap is carefully repositioned, where it naturally adheres without the need for stitches. In PRK, since there is no flap, a protective contact lens is placed over the eye to aid healing.
Immediately after the procedure, you may experience blurry vision, but this usually improves within a few hours. Some common side effects in the first few days include:
Your doctor will provide medicated eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It is important to avoid rubbing your eyes and engaging in strenuous activities for at least a few weeks. Most patients notice a significant improvement in vision within 24 to 48 hours, but full recovery may take a few weeks. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress.
Laser eye surgery is a safe and effective procedure that offers long-term vision correction with minimal downtime. Understanding the process can help you feel more confident about the procedure. If you are considering laser eye surgery, consult an experienced ophthalmologist to determine if it is the right option for you.