What is laser eye surgery?
Laser eye surgery is a procedure that aims to improve vision by reshaping the cornea, the front part of the eye. It works like adjusting a camera lens’s focus, helping light properly reach the retina at the back of the eye. This can correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The surgery is typically quick and does not cause much discomfort. People usually stay awake during the procedure, though some may receive a sedative to help them relax.
Afterward, eye drops are prescribed to aid in the healing process. Laser eye surgery can reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses and improve overall visual clarity.
There are different types of laser eye surgery, namely, LASIK, SMILE, ASLA/PRK
LASIK, SMILE, and ASLA/PRK are different types of laser eye surgery procedures:
LASIK: Laser-Assisted keratomileusis is a two-step procedure that involves using two lasers for vision correction. It is suitable for individuals with adequate corneal thickness.
SMILE: Small Incision Lenticule Extraction is a technique that involves creating a small incision and using a laser to reshape the cornea. It is primarily used for correcting high degrees of nearsightedness.
ASLA/PRK: Advanced Surface Laser Ablation or Photorefractive Keratectomy uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors. It is performed on the surface of the cornea and can be suitable for individuals with thinner corneas or those who are not eligible for LASIK.
These procedures aim to improve vision by reshaping the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina and reducing the need for glasses or contact lenses. The specific procedure recommended depends on individual factors and the nature of the vision problem.
Who is the best candidate for laser eye surgery?
Laser eye surgery is generally suitable for individuals with common vision problems like myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. However, age and corneal thickness are important factors in determining candidacy for the procedure.
Children under 18 are not typically eligible for laser eye surgery due to the ongoing development of the cornea during this stage.
Having an adequately thick cornea is crucial for the surgery. Thin corneas pose higher risks and potential complications. Therefore, individuals with an appropriate corneal thickness are considered better candidates for laser eye surgery.