Are you tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses to see the world clearly? Have you ever wondered, "what is laser eye surgery?" This innovative procedure has transformed the lives of millions.
Laser eye surgery, also known as laser vision correction, is a medical procedure that reshapes the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, to improve vision. This innovative technique has revolutionised the way people view the world, reducing or eliminating the dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
Key takeaways from this article:
- Laser eye surgery is a precise procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct vision
problems. - It offers the potential for improved vision and a higher quality of life.
- Several factors, including eye health and the specific type of vision correction needed,
determine suitability for laser eye surgery.
How Does Laser Eye Surgery Work?
To understand how laser eye surgery works, it's essential to grasp the basics of vision. Light enters the eye through the cornea, passing through the pupil and lens before reaching the retina. The cornea plays a crucial role in focusing light accurately onto the retina, enabling clear vision.
In individuals with refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, the cornea is shaped in a way that causes light not to focus properly on the retina. Laser eye surgery corrects these refractive errors by reshaping the cornea with a highly precise laser.
Who is Suitable for Laser Eye Surgery?
Not everyone is suitable for laser eye surgery. Generally, good candidates are:
- Between the ages of 21 and 50
- In good overall health with no serious eye conditions
- Stable vision for at least one year
- Free from certain medical conditions that may affect healing
Our medical team will conduct a comprehensive examination to determine your eligibility for laser eye surgery.
Types of Laser Eye Surgery Procedures
There are several types of laser eye surgery procedures available, each with its own specific techniques and benefits. Some of the most common, and the procedures that Canberra Eye Laser performs include:
- SMILE Pro (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). This advanced laser eye surgery
technique uses a femtosecond laser to create a small lenticule within the cornea,
which is then removed through a tiny incision. - LASIK Pro (Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis). This is the most widely performed
laser eye surgery procedure. It involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, which is then
lifted to allow the laser to reshape the underlying tissue. - PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). This procedure involves removing the outer layer
of the cornea before using a laser to reshape the underlying tissue.
The most suitable type of laser eye surgery for you will depend on factors such as your specific vision problem, corneal thickness, and overall eye health.
Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery offers numerous advantages, making it an attractive option for many people seeking to improve their vision. Some of the key benefits include:
- Improved Vision: The most significant benefit is achieving clearer, sharper vision
without the reliance on glasses or contact lenses. - Enhanced Quality of Life: Enjoy greater freedom and convenience in daily activities,
such as exercising, swimming, or participating in sports. - Increased Confidence: Many people report a boost in self-esteem after undergoing
laser eye surgery. - Cost-Effective in the Long Term: While there is an upfront cost, laser eye surgery
can save you money in the long run by eliminating the ongoing expenses of glasses
or contact lenses.
Risks and Side Effects
Like any surgical procedure, laser eye surgery carries some risks and potential side effects. It's essential to weigh the benefits against these risks before making a decision. Some possible side effects include:
- Dry Eyes: This is a common temporary side effect that often resolves on its own or
with the use of artificial tears. - Glare or Halos: Some patients may experience temporary glare or halos around lights,
especially at night. - Undercorrection or Overcorrection: In rare cases, the laser treatment may not correct
vision perfectly, requiring an enhancement procedure. - Infection and Inflammation: While uncommon, there is a risk of infection and
inflammation following any surgery.
It's important to discuss these potential risks with our medical staff during your free assessment. If you have any concerns, we can book a complimentary appointment with our ophthalmologists.
Preparing for Laser Eye Surgery
Before undergoing laser eye surgery, you will undergo a series of preoperative evaluations to assess your eye health and determine the best treatment plan. These assessments include:
- A detailed medical and eye health history
- A comprehensive eye examination, including visual acuity tests, refraction, and eye
health assessment - Corneal scans to measure the curvature and thickness of your cornea
- Other tests as needed, such as an auto-refractor or keratometry
Our team will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, which may include:
- Avoiding certain medications or contact lenses
- Arranging for transportation to and from the surgery centre
- Knowing what to expect during and after the procedure
What to Expect During the Procedure
Laser eye surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day. The procedure usually takes about 15-20 minutes per eye, but you’ll be required to be in the clinic for up to 2 hours.
During the procedure, you will receive numbing eye drops, and your eyelids are held open with a speculum. The laser is then used to reshape the cornea, correcting your vision. You may experience some pressure during the procedure, but it is usually minimal.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery process following laser eye surgery is generally straightforward, but it's essential to follow our team’s post-operative instructions carefully. Most patients experience a quick recovery time, allowing them to resume their normal activities within a few days.
Immediately after the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, dryness, or blurry vision. These symptoms are typically temporary and improve as your eyes heal. Our team will provide you with eye drops to help manage these symptoms and promote healing.
To ensure optimal recovery, it's important to:
- Rest your eyes: Avoid strenuous activities and excessive screen time for the first few
days. Line up some great podcasts to listen to during this time! - Protect your eyes: Wear protective eyewear when sleeping or engaging in activities
that could potentially harm your eyes. - Use prescribed eye drops: Adhere to the prescribed eye drop regimen to prevent
infection and promote healing. - Attend follow-up appointments: Post-operative check-ups with our team are essential
to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
While most patients experience excellent results, it's important to be aware that vision may fluctuate slightly during the initial healing period. Your vision will gradually improve over the following weeks, and you should achieve your final visual outcome within a few months.
Laser eye surgery can be a life-changing experience, offering the freedom and convenience of clear vision. While it's essential to weigh the benefits and risks carefully, many individuals find that the procedure significantly enhances their quality of life.
If you're considering laser eye surgery and would like to learn more about your options, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team can provide personalised advice and guide you through the process.