Laser eye surgery has revolutionised how we handle vision problems, allowing patients to reduce or eliminate their dependency on glasses or contact lenses. But how is laser eye surgery performed?
Whether you’re curious about LASIK surgery or laser vision correction techniques or want to learn more about its merits and risks, this comprehensive guide will take you through every step of the journey.
We’ll also delve into the different types of laser eye surgery and the numerous benefits of opting for this procedure.
How Is Laser Eye Surgery Performed?
Laser eye surgery typically follows a structured set of steps to ensure precision and quality. Below is a step-by-step guide on how the procedure is performed, particularly for LASIK surgery and other common methods of laser eye treatment.
Step 1: Pre-Surgery Consultation And Eye Examination
The exam may also include corneal topography, which maps the surface of your cornea, and pachymetry to check for any irregularities.
At this stage, your surgeon will explain the specific technique they recommend, whether it’s LASIK, PRK, or SMILE, and provide detailed instructions on preparing for surgery. You’ll also be advised to stop wearing contact lenses before the procedure, as they can affect the shape of your cornea.
Step 2: Anaesthetic Eye Drops
On the day of the surgery, you’ll arrive at the eye clinic, and your eyes will be numbed with anaesthetic eye drops to make sure you don’t feel much discomfort during the surgery. These drops are highly effective and allow you to stay awake while remaining comfortable throughout the surgery.
Step 3: Creation Of The Corneal Flap (LASIK Specific)
In LASIK surgery, the ophthalmologist uses a femtosecond laser or a microkeratome (a mechanical surgical tool) to create a thin corneal flap. This flap is gently lifted to reveal the underlying corneal tissue, where the actual reshaping will take place. The flap remains attached to the eye, allowing it to be repositioned after the laser treatment.
For PRK or SMILE procedures, this step varies. In PRK, instead of creating a flap, the outer part of the cornea (the corneal epithelium) is gently removed to access the tissue underneath. In SMILE, a small incision is made, and a lenticule (a tiny piece of corneal tissue) is removed to correct the vision.
Step 4: Reshaping The Cornea With A Laser
The next step involves using a highly precise laser to correct the shape of the corneal tissue. A computer-controlled excimer laser is used for this process. The laser beam precisely removes microscopic amounts of tissue from the cornea to modify its shape, correcting the patient’s refractive errors.
This laser reshaping helps correct how light rays are focused onto the retina, improving overall vision. The quick laser application typically lasts less than a minute per eye. The amount of tissue removed is based on the patient’s refractive error, whether nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
For SMILE, the laser creates the lenticule, which is removed through the small incision, leaving the rest of the cornea intact.
Step 5: Repositioning The Corneal Flap (LASIK Specific)
Once the cornea has been reshaped, the ophthalmologist will gently put the corneal flap back into its original position. Since the flap adheres naturally to the eye without stitches, it will heal on its own. This step is unique to LASIK; other procedures like PRK don’t require flap repositioning.
In PRK, a bandage contact lens is placed over the eye after the laser reshaping to protect it as the corneal epithelium regenerates over the next few days.
Step 6: Post-Surgery Application Of Eye Drops
Immediately after the surgery, lubricating eye drops may be applied to avoid infection and promote healing. These drops will also help reduce dry eyes, a typical side effect of laser eye surgery. You’ll be instructed to use these drops for several days to support recovery.
Step 7: Rest And Recovery
After the procedure, you’ll rest briefly in the clinic. You won’t be able to drive, so you’ll need someone to take you home. Your vision may be blurry immediately after the surgery, but this should gradually improve over 24-48 hours. Depending on the type of surgery, patients may return to regular activities within a few days.
Follow-up visits are critical to monitor your healing and ensure no complications. Your surgeon will provide aftercare instructions, including how to protect your eyes during recovery.
Understanding Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery, also called refractive surgery, is designed to correct vision problems by altering the shape of the cornea. It can address refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you’ll be able to return home the same day.
Why Choose Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser eye surgery offers many benefits, making it a popular choice for those pursuing vision correction. These advantages are significant, whether reducing dependency on glasses or contact lenses or providing long-term clarity.
Improved Vision
One of the most significant benefits of laser eye surgery is improved distance vision and the ability to see more clearly without corrective lenses. The surgery properly manages a range of refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Long-Term Results
Many patients enjoy natural eyesight without having to wear contact lenses or glasses for years after the procedure. Some patients may require enhancement surgery later on, but this is rare and usually minor.
Quick Recovery Time
Patients typically feel pleased with the quick recovery time of laser eye surgery. After LASIK surgery, many individuals may return to their regular activities within a few days. Procedures like PRK or SMILE may require a longer recovery, but the overall results should remain positive.
Minimal Pain Or Discomfort
Laser eye surgery is generally a straightforward procedure. Patients may experience mild discomfort immediately after the surgery. This is managed effectively with medicated and lubricating eye drops, making the entire process relatively comfortable.
Freedom From Glasses And Contact Lenses
Laser eye surgery offers newfound freedom for individuals who have spent years wearing glasses or contact lenses. No more worrying about losing or breaking glasses or dealing with the hassle of wearing and removing contact lenses.
Dependable And Tested
Laser eye surgery techniques such as LASIK have been around for decades and are considered convenient and dependable. Millions of procedures are performed worldwide each year, with a high success rate and minimal risk of serious complications.
Types Of Laser Eye Surgery
There are different laser eye surgery methods, each tailored to the patient’s unique condition. The most common types include LASIK, PRK, SMILE, and PRESBYOND. Each has its own specific approach, but all aim to provide a clearer, improved vision.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)
LASIK eye surgery is one of the most common and well-known types of laser surgery. The laser eye surgeon creates a thin corneal flap with a femtosecond laser during this procedure. The excimer laser then modifies the shape of the corneal tissue underneath. The corneal flap is then repositioned, allowing it to heal naturally. LASIK is favoured for its quick recovery time and excellent outcomes in terms of vision correction.
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE)
Being a newer option, SMILE involves creating a small incision in the cornea through which the surgeon removes a tiny disc of corneal tissue (called a lenticule). This minimally invasive method is an excellent option for those with thin corneas or patients who engage in contact sports.
PRESBYOND (Laser Blended Vision)
PRESBYOND is a cutting-edge treatment specifically designed to address presbyopia, the age-related condition in which the eye loses the capability to focus on near objects. Laser eye surgery blends distance vision and near vision correction, offering an effective solution for people over 40 who might otherwise need reading glasses.
Risks And Potential Complications
Like any surgical procedure, laser eye surgery comes with potential risks. Although complications are rare, it’s important to understand them before deciding.
Possible Side Effects
Some patients may have dry eyes, blurred vision, or increased light sensitivity in the weeks following surgery. These symptoms are supposedly temporary and can be managed with eye drops and proper aftercare.
Surgical Complications
In rare cases, complications such as an irregularly shaped cornea or corneal scarring can occur, leading to vision issues. This is why it’s crucial to choose a highly skilled surgeon who follows strict guidelines for patient care.
Need For Further Surgery
A small percentage of patients may need an enhancement procedure if their vision does not stabilise fully after the first surgery. This usually happens in cases where the initial refractive error was very high, or the healing process was slower than expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can you return to normal activities?
Patients may resume normal activities, including work, within a few days. However, they are advised to avoid swimming, contact sports, and heavy lifting for at least two weeks after surgery.
Will you still have to wear glasses or contact lenses after surgery?
While many patients no longer need to wear glasses or contact lenses after surgery, some may still require reading glasses as they age due to a natural condition known as presbyopia. However, the need for corrective lenses is significantly reduced.
How do you know you are a good candidate for laser eye surgery?
Candidates for laser eye surgery should be over 18 and have had a stable vision prescription for at least a year. Your eye surgeon will also evaluate your corneal thickness and overall eye health to determine your suitability for the procedure.
Ready To See Clearly? Laser Eye Surgery Could Be The Answer
By understanding how laser eye surgery is performed, the benefits, aftercare, and potential risks, you can decide whether this surgery is right for you. While the results are often life-enhancing, following your surgeon’s advice is crucial to ensuring the best possible outcome.
Ready to explore how laser eye surgery can transform your vision? Consult Dr Edward Roufail today at (03) 9071 0180 to discuss your options in Melbourne and take the first step towards a clearer vision!
Note: Surgical or invasive procedures carry inherent risks. As part of our standard practice, we thoroughly discuss these risks during the consent process before any surgical procedure. Your understanding and comfort are our utmost priority.
Sources:
Dunkin M A 2023. A Guide to Refractive and Laser Eye Surgery. WebMD. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/overview-refractive-laser-eye-surgery [Accessed October 7, 2024]
Espandar L, Feldman B H., Kozak A, Tripathy K, Reddy V, Vinciguerra R, Battaglia B, Pathak A K., Moshirfar M & Kumar S N. 2024. LASIK Complications Shafer B, editor. EyeWiki. Available at: https://eyewiki.org/LASIK_Complications [Accessed October 7, 2024]
Groth L 2024. LASIK Eye Surgery: Benefits, Risks and Side Effects. Forbes Health. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/health/eye-health/lasik-laser-eye-surgery/ [Accessed October 7, 2024]
NHS 2024. Laser Eye Surgery and Lens Surgery. NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/laser-eye-surgery-and-lens-surgery/ [Accessed October 7, 2024]
Silver N 2021. What Causes Dry Eyes After LASIK Surgery, and How to Treat Them. Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-eye/dry-eyes-after-lasik [Accessed October 7, 2024]
U.S. Food and Drug Administration 2021. What Is LASIK? U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/lasik/what-lasik [Accessed October 7, 2024]
