What is Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser Eye Surgery, also known as refractive surgery, is a transformative procedure designed to correct common vision problems, known as refractive errors, to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses and contact lenses. This surgery utilises a specialised laser to precisely reshape the cornea—the clear, front surface of the eye—enhancing vision and focus.
How does Laser Eye Surgery work?
Your eye functions like a finely tuned camera, where the cornea and lens work together to focus light accurately on the retina. When this light is improperly focused due to structural irregularities of the eye, laser vision correction adjusts the cornea’s curvature to correct these imperfections.
Who is a candidate for Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser eye surgery is typically suitable for adults aged 18 and over with stable vision prescriptions for at least a year. Patients should have healthy eyes free from conditions like severe dry eye, keratoconus, or uncontrolled diabetes. A comprehensive evaluation with an ophthalmologist will determine if laser eye surgery is best for you.
Alternative Vision Correction Options
Alternative options, such as implantable contact lenses (ICLs) or intraocular lenses, may be considered for individuals who are not suitable candidates for laser eye surgery. These procedures offer effective vision correction without altering the cornea.
Conditions that are treated with Laser Eye Surgery
Laser Eye Surgery is effective in treating several common refractive errors that affect vision:
- Myopia (shortsightedness): This condition is characterised by clear vision up close but poor distance vision, often requiring corrective lenses for activities such as driving.
- Hyperopia (farsightedness): This condition makes it difficult to focus on nearby objects, making tasks like reading or working on a computer more challenging without glasses.
- Astigmatism: This condition leads to blurred or distorted vision at all distances due to an irregularly shaped cornea.
- Presbyopia: An age-related condition that affects near vision, typically becoming noticeable in adults over 40, who may need reading glasses.
Symptoms:
Vision which becomes clear upon using spectacle or contact lenses is a refractive error.
Laser vision correction offers a range of benefits that can significantly improve both vision and quality of life:
Enhanced Visual Clarity and Sharpness
Most patients experience a dramatic improvement in visual clarity and sharpness, often noticing clearer vision within a day of the procedure.
Reduced Dependence on Glasses and Contact Lenses
Laser eye surgery can greatly reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, offering greater freedom in daily life.
Fast Recovery and Minimal Downtime
With fast recovery times, most patients can return to normal activities within a few days of the procedure.
High Success Rate
Laser eye surgery boasts an impressive 95% success rate. This outstanding success rate underscores the procedure’s effectiveness in delivering long-lasting visual improvement and freedom from glasses or contact lenses.
Before proceeding with laser eye treatment, a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation is essential to determine the patient’s suitability for surgery and the type of surgery.
- Slit Lamp Investigation: This examination checks the health of the cornea and identifies any conditions that might impact the success of the surgery.
- Refraction Test: This test measures the eye’s refractive error to customise the surgical approach to the patient’s specific needs.
- Corneal Topography: Provides a detailed map of the cornea’s surface, helping to identify any irregularities and to plan the surgery precisely.
- Dilated Retinal Exam: This is a comprehensive assessment of the retina to ensure that no underlying issues could complicate the surgery.
Selecting the appropriate type of laser eye surgery depends on the individual’s vision needs, determined by the specialised ophthalmologist. The available options for correcting vision are:
Popular types of Laser Eye Surgery
- LASIK (LASIK Surgery): Involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, which is then lifted so that the laser can reshape the corneal tissue underneath.
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): In this procedure, the cornea’s outer layer is removed to expose the area for direct reshaping, making it suitable for patients with thin corneas.
- LASEK (Laser-Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy): Combines elements of LASIK and PRK using a thinner flap, typically resulting in quicker recovery time.
- SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): A minimally invasive procedure where a small disc of corneal tissue is created and removed through a small incision, reducing risks and recovery time.
- TransPRK: A touch-free method where the laser treatment is applied directly to the corneal surface without needing a physical flap.
What to expect after Laser Eye Surgery?
Post-operative care is essential for achieving the best visual outcomes. Patients might experience mild discomfort and light sensitivity immediately after the procedure, but these typically subside within a few days. It is essential to follow the surgeon’s aftercare instructions, which may include:
- Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes.
- Using prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation.
- Wearing sunglasses to protect from UV light.
- Avoid strenuous activities and dusty environments for a few weeks.
Laser Eye Surgery Specialists
Dr. Osama Giledi
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Cataract, Cornea and Refractive Vision Correction SurgeryGCAA Approved Specialist Aeromedical Examiner
Associate Professor Of Ophthalmology (Adjunct)
Dr. Miguel Morcillo
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Cornea, Cataract and Refractive vision correction surgery
Dr. Imad Hakim
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Cataract and Refractive vision correction surgery
Dr. Esmaeil Arbabi
Medical Director and Consultant Ophthalmologist in Corneal transplant, Cataract & Refractive Surgery
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